Painless Science Fair Projects


December 16, 1996

Greensboro, NC: The mere mention of a science fair causes many parents to cringe. Images of late-night gluing and repetitive trips to the hardware store dominate the impression many parents have about their children's science projects.

Your child's science fair project does not have to be an unpleasant experience, says a Cooperative Extension specialist.

"Nearly everything we do, from healing the sick to planting a garden, involves some sort of science," said Dr. Robert Williamson, a natural resources specialist with the North Carolina A&T State University Cooperative Extension Program. "Participating in a science fair gives a young person an excellent opportunity to better understand how science relates to everyday life."

Williamson offers some practical advice for parents to follow when helping their children with science fair projects.
"If you have the opportunity, help your child select an experiment that is practical for their age group, and try to make sure that the topic interests your child and will provide a sound learning experience."

If a topic has already been assigned by the teacher, or if you are unsure of what the teacher expects, Williamson recommends contacting the teacher. "Without a clear direction or solid topic, all further work can be frustrating for both the parent and their child."

Sometimes, a teacher expects science fair projects to be simple demonstrations or models of a scientific nature. Other times, though, teachers might expect a detailed experiment. In the latter case, the student should use the scientific research method.

"The scientific method is a series of logical steps used to answer questions and solve problems," said Williamson. "It includes the elements: purpose, hypothesis, research, experiment, and conclusion. This decision-making process is routinely used in the scientific community, and local libraries should have reference books available which describe it in more detail."

After selecting a topic, students should begin researching and gathering the materials they need for their projects. This might mean a trip to the library for books and other reference materials, or looking around the garage for elements to be used in the construction of the project.

"Plan ahead and gather everything you might need to complete the project," said Williamson. "Preparation will save you and your child last-minute frustrations."

To avoid purchasing costly items for one-time use, Williamson suggests using items commonly found around the house. "Using cardboard boxes and hand stenciling display titles are good alternatives to purchasing display boards and self adhesive lettering. Neatness and accuracy are more important than fancy, expensive props."

Frequently, when children require the assistance of their parents in schoolwork, parents question how deeply they should become involved. Williamson suggests that parents assist and encourage their children, but refrain from doing the project for them. "Parent involvement in schoolwork is highly encouraged, but a child learns best from being the major contributor to the project."

A Science Fair Project Guidebook, developed by Drs. Williamson and Ellen Smoak, is available from the NC A&T Cooperative Extension Program, (336) 334 7956.

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