HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Why should I do a Science Fair project?

Because it looks good on a college application

Colleges are looking for things that show you are unique and motivated and are thinking about your future.

Because you are interested in science

Science is everywhere; in sports, music, games. If you can ask a question about something, you can
do research to find the answer.

Because it gives you a chance to explore something that interests you

How often do you get to choose what you study? Find something that interest you and form a project around the subject.

Because you can probably get high school credit for your work

Most schools will allow a student to do an independent study, so you can have time to work on your project and receive credit for your work. If you need help with this, let me know..

Because your work may have the support of a local scientist

Most high school projects have outside help. You'll need to know what research has been done and what research you should do. Local scientists are willing to help with those questions and more. Let me know a little about your project and I may be able to introduce you to someone who can help.

Because at a science fair the focus is on you.

You present your work to an interested audience at a science fair. At the state science fair, public viewing is attended by representatives from Colorado's industries and colleges. Many college scholarships are awarded at the state and international science fairs. Internships are also awarded and relationships are formed with industry representatives who are very interested in hiring you as an intern or after college.

Because there are really great prizes at the Regional, Colorado and International Science Fairs.

Check out the awards won by our region's students at the Regional, State and International Science Fairs in 2013. The International Fair gave away 1.5 million dollars in awards.

So, how do I get started?

If you do have a project in mind, you can skip this part

Think of what interests you; music, sports, art, racing........ Do you have a question about your interest? If not, do some reading, talk to a teacher or scientist. Science News is a great resource for finding out the latest science discoveries. The articles are short and interesting.

Write your question, hypothesis and design your experiment. Start your paperwork after your research, but before starting your experiment.

You'll need to check out the  ISEF Rulebook. This page also has a student handbook and a lot of other information. Iinteractive forms are available online. Every project will need Form 1, Form 1A and Form 1B and Form 3. Form 1 asks whether you are using human subjects, vertebrate animals, biological agents, or hazardous chemicals or devices. If the answer is yes, there are more forms. You'll notice on form 1B that you may need a signature from an SRC (scientific review committee) or IRB (Internal Review Board). We have both, and can review and sign off on your paperwork.

Start your paperwork...the short version

Write your question, hypothesis and procedure. Email them to me and I will tell you what paperwork you need.

Find an adult sponsor

Your adult sponsor can be a parent, teacher or a local scientist.  They are required to review and sign your paperwork. . 

What do you need for your project?

Do you need a lab, materials, knowledge? If you tell me what you need, I may be able to help.