Introduction to the Science Fair- Info For Parents

2012-01-07T10:30:00.000-08:00

When and Where: The annual HFH Science Fair will be held on Friday, May, 4 after First Friday Mass at St. Mary's Pine Bluff.

Who: Catholic homeschooled students in grades Kindergarten through High School are invited to participate. There is no entry fee for HFH members, non-HFH members must pay a facility fee of $5 per child. Participating families are asked to bring a snack to share the night of the Fair.

Why: Participating students will have an opportunity to put the scientific method into practical use. They will follow these steps:

Identify the problem

Refer to authoritative sources

Ask an appropriate question

Develop a hypothesis

Conduct experiments

Keep detailed records of methods and results

Report the experiments

Analyze the results

Develop a conclusion

How: To make this process easier on parents I have come up with a series of twelve assignments and deadlines to guide students in creating their projects. Submitting the assignments to me at Science class on Wednesdays is optional but encouraged. I will read over student’s work and offer feedback. Students should keep a project log, a “marble” composition book is recommended for this purpose. Starting in February , I will post detailed instructions for each assignment to a blog cleverly titled Science Fair Blog .
If you would like me to send you a copy of all the assignments in a PDF file or a printed copy contact me, or download a copy from the link at the Science Fair Blog.

What: In addition to a “marble” composition book, students will need a tri-fold cardboard display board and any materials needed to carry out and report on their project. It is possible and encouraged for students to choose projects that use inexpensive materials, but obviously the final cost will vary depending on the topic.

A Few More Details:Students who are not taking my Science class are welcome to participate. If they wish to submit assignments to me, email me to make arrangements.
A note about younger students: Kindergarten and First graders are encouraged to participate in the Science Fair. In the past we have had some very good informational projects on topics such as dinosaurs and worms submitted by Kindergartners. Younger students (including 2nd and 3rd graders) are not expecting to follow all the assignments strictly and produce a written report, rather the parent should use the assignments as a guideline and tailor the project to the child’s level. A display about an area of interest is a great introduction to Science Fair projects for the younger crowd. Students in 4th grade and up (and perhaps some more ambitious 2nd and 3rd graders) should be able to complete a project as specified in the assignments.

Please contact me with any questions!