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When deciding on your project, it's a good idea to think about what is realistic for you to undertake, what your teacher's expectations are, and what is likely to impress. For example, experiments that show how something works are probably within your teacher's expectations. But if you also present the solution to a common conundrum, or indicate how the solution may solve other issues, you may receive "extra points".
Which project is right for you? Well, what tools and materials do you have available? What do you genuinely want to know about? You'll probably derive more pleasure out of investigating something that puzzles or interests you. Here are just 6 project suggestions:
1. Do different types of candles burn at different rates? Compare a short, fat candle to a tall, thin candle. Or compare different colored candles.
2. How do water filters work and what do they remove? What's the difference between filtering water and boiling water?
3. Are cockroaches attracted to light or dark areas?
4. Are all dishwashing detergents the same? Do those that produce more bubbles, actually clean more effectively than those that produce fewer bubbles?
5. What temperature causes popcorn to pop?
6. How much water does a cactus retain... or contain?
Be aware that some experiments won't work unless you control all external conditions. So you may need to remove certain things (and possibly certain people) from your experiment area. If the experiment doesn't produce the effects you expected, go back and check whether there were any unintended influences.
When you're happy with the experiment, it's time to prepare your presentation. The key here is to be rehearsed but natural. So try not to read from notes - explain your experiment with the enthusiasm you had when conducting it!
I suggest you structure your presentation as follows: start by explaining what your presentation is about... then explain the project - why you chose this particular project, what result you were expecting, what result you got, and what this means (e.g. what problem this solves)... then finish off by answering questions from the audience. Just be sure to prepare for the most likely questions beforehand. That way you'll be less likely to stumble over a tricky question. It's definitely a good idea to practice your presentation in front of family and friends.
Your middle school science fair project gives you an opportunity to find out something you don't know, and share your discovery with others. So make the most of it and have a good time!
Category: Reference and EducationMiddle School Science Experiments Explained was written by:Author:Robert WatsonAdded: Mon, 21 Jan 2008 21:14:04 -0500 This Article Has Been Read 297 times View all Robert Watson's articlesAbout the Author: Searching for a job is a difficult process, but fortunately for you, Job Search Help for Me is a brand new blog which gives you free information on many aspects of job searching, including how to answer the 10 basic interview questions. |
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