General
Guidelines for the Science Fair
The Scientific Method is a method
of organization for a research project or experiment. The steps of this method
are outlined below. There are examples on the BLOG.
Step 1: Ask
a question
Choose a
topic to research or do an experiment on.
Determine a
specific problem or a question you would like answered that is related to the
topic.
Clearly state the question or problem you are trying to solve.
Step 2: Form a hypothesis/prediction
Based on your research and what you know about your topic, what do you think will happen when you do your experiment?
Step 3: Make a plan and follow it
Decide how you can test
your hypothesis.
Make a plan for what you will need (materials) and what you will need to do (procedures).
Step 4: Observe and Record the results
Do your
experiment.
Make
observations and measurements.
Write them down
carefully.
Step 5: Draw a Conclusion
(This isn’t about drawing
a picture.)
What did you learn? Was your hypothesis correct? Why or why not? Investigate and give reasons.
Step 6: Communicate the results
This should take many forms: organize your data by making
tables, graphs, charts, drawings and/or diagrams. You may make a presentation
board, write a report, give a presentation, and answer questions. Be creative!
