The logbook
is the most important part of a science fair project. A composition
book or notebook with non-removable pages should be used. NEVER use
correction fluid in your logbook. Instead, you can strike through
a mistake once.
{ Mistake }
You should
begin recording in your logbook the first day you begin thinking about
your project. You should always put the date and time on all entries.
Anything you do for your project should be recorded in the logbook.
All research notes should be recorded in the logbook. Observations
from research should be recorded in the logbook.
Experiment
You should spend some
time considering what your research topic should be. You do not want
to rush into an idea -- the best ideas come from time. Talk to your
parents, teachers, and peers about your ideas. Check out the links
on the super science page to help you get started with ideas.
Be sure to set a control and a variable. Define these well and make
sure that all other factors (such as lighting, weather, time of day) are
ruled out.
Take pictures during your research -- you'll need proof of your final results.
Be sure to record in your logbook frequently.
Trace fossils with leaf imprints
The effects of aspirin
on flower life
The effects of temperature
on battery life
The effects of temperature
on air pressure
The effects of erosion on soil
Research
Paper
Whenever possible, your
research paper should be typed. It consists of 10 sections, as follows:
Title Page
Table of
Contents
Introduction
(2 pages)
Materials
/ Methods (including controls and variables)
The backboard is the
first impression that you give judges. It should be NEAT and attractive
to the eye. The title should be catchy or descriptive. You
should try to mount all pieces on construction paper. Be sure to follow
the width and height regulations as stated by your local fair.
Parts of the backboard:
Purpose
Title
Conclusion
Hypothesis
Pictures of
Research Process
Discussion
Materials
Chart/Graph
Methods
Results
Future Study
Forms
Be sure to complete all necessary forms (including the abstract).
See the Science
Project Links for more help.
