THE FOLLOWING IS TOP SECRET INFORMATION…
Mr. Dolfi said that 4th graders are welcome to submit just a properly prepared display board. But, if you are interested in ‘winning’ the science fair, might I suggest that you keep a scientific journal. A journal or composition book is usually what determines the winner of the science fair (this is a huge generalization, but it’s been true for the past several years). The composition book should contain the following items:
- Title Page
- Table of Content (go ahead and lable this page and then number all the pages in your journal – you can always go back and complete it properly at the end of your project)
- Scientifically Testable Question
- Hypothesis
- Background information along with at least 2-3 references.
- Material list
- List of variables
- A brief procedure list (I say brief…but remember this composition book is often (often not always) the deciding factor in determining the 1st place winner).
- DATA COLLECTION – the composition book is definitely the place to record the data.
- Conclusion that fully connects the elements of the scientifically testable question, background information, data analysis and results.
- For extra bonus points you will want to provide recommendations related to the project and include ideas for a redesign.
The first few pages of the composition book should be somewhat formal, meaning the information should be written neatly and purposefully. The rest of the book should have a personal feel to it. I would encourage that all entries be dated, sketches should be included when possible, thoughts/reflections written during the trial phase, and data recorded in hand drawn tables. It should look like a scientific journal or diary. It should show the judges that the student valued the project. All that being said – the composition book is not graded, but it can certainly be the deciding factor when there is steep competition.