How to Succeed at a Science Fair: Design Good Experiments.
I have a Hypothesis, Now What?
Your Observations about an interesting phenomenon have provided you with the Question that needs to be addressed. Your Hypothesis and Prediction(s) will provide you with a framework to Design your Experiments so that you can start collecting your Results. When designing your experiments, there are two key factors to consider, Independent Variables and appropriate Controls.
What is an Independent Variable?
Independent Variables are scenarios devised by you, the scientist; the variables that you control. This is to be distinguished from the Dependent Variable, the variable that is controlled by the Independent Variable, in other words, the Results. It is also distinguished from variables that you are not controlling but that can also affect your results and skew the data away from the true answer. We will talk about this later.
Science Insight
Did you know that the independent variable is plotted on the X-axis of a graph while the dependent variable is plotted on the Y-axis? For more advice on expressing your data, CONTACT ME, your Microbe Mentor..
Free 15-minute consultation available.Case Study 1: Examples of Independent and Dependent Variables in an Experiment
In an experiment that addresses how long it takes a beetle larvae to pupate (form a cocoon) at different environmental temperatures, an example of an independent variable would be a given temperature. The corresponding dependent variable would be how long it takes the larvae to develop into pupae at that temperature. One cannot know what the dependent variable will be until the data presents that answer!
Case Study 2: BE FAIR! Are all the Other Variables the Same for each Independent Variable? The Importance of Controls.
Let us say that you are examining how long it takes larvae to pupate over a range of temperatures (0 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius). Can you demonstrate that all the other variables that are not being evaluated are the same at each of these temperatures?
Firstly, we will assume that all the larvae are the same age, as they should be. But, are the light intensity, the oxygen levels, the humidity levels, etc. the same at each temperature? This is where controls are applied. Meters that measure these environmental variables could confirm that all the untested variables are the same.
What if you find that the incubator is more humid at 50 degrees Celsius than at the lower temperatures? Then you will have to somehow ensure that the humidity of all the other incubators is the same as at 50 degrees or the data may be skewed if it happens that humidity also affects the time that it takes beetle larvae to pupate.
How to succeed at a Science Fair: A Practical Guide for Students Grades 5-12, and their Parents
“An elegant, award winning project does not require a lab—just curiosity and discipline.”
“An elegant, award winning project doesn’t require a lab—just curiosity and discipline.”
Science Fairs are important platforms where a student can have a positive experience with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) while working on a project that they enjoy and find interesting. During this endeavor, students learn to use Scientific Method and to organize and communicate ideas as they gain confidence in scientific writing and public speaking. All these experiences prove to be invaluable for individuals who wish to matriculate into and to perform well in selective colleges and universities. There is a plethora of science fair opportunities for STEM oriented students ranging from grades 5-12. These range from the non-competitive “explore and grow” STEM venues to the highly rigorous “compete and advance” venues. Students who start in the non-competitive venues often find that they enjoy STEM research and decide to switch from the less competitive path to the more competitive path as their interest in the STEM subject or process grows after their initial experiences.
Competitive vs Non-competitive Science Fair Venues
In the low-stakes science fair competitions, students can design and conduct experiments in their classroom or at home, the judging style is educational and encouraging, and the students need not advance to a higher level unless they wish to. Finally, the students who participate in fairs at this level enjoy a much shorter commitment than that required in the high-stakes competitions.
Some students choose to conduct their study in an R01 or R15 level university research lab when competing in the high-stakes science fair competitions. This is not necessary. Many elegant, award-winning projects can be and have been conducted in a home or school setting. However, the project will be more rigorous than that of a low-stakes science fair project and the judges will have extremely high expectations of the student participant. The judges appreciate projects that are original and novel in conception and execution. An award-winning project should have “real world” relevance. The presenters demonstrate both depth and breadth of understanding of the project, adherence to excellent experimental design with the appropriate controls and variables, and a long-term commitment to the project. Students who wish to excel in prestigious science fairs like ISEF (International Science and Engineering Fair) benefit from starting their research early.
Science Fair Pathways for Students Grades 5-12
Regardless of your age or whether you choose the “grow and explore” or the “compete and advance” path, there is a hierarchy to the process. Entry level participation typically starts at the school level; for students in grades 5 through 8, participation is often required. For the noncompetitive track, schools may give out simple awards or participation ribbons; students who perform well at this level may be selected to represent the school in a district or city-wide fair. At this level, the judging style is friendly and educational but is more structured as the judges use a rubric to objectively rank the participants. Students who do well at this level may be invited to participate in a Regional Science Fair, at this level the fair is typically ISEF affiliated for those who wish to transfer to a more competitive track; however, these fairs generally offer “non-competitive, exhibit only” categories for those who prefer a low to moderate pressure experience. From this point on, students have decided to commit to a high-stakes STEM experience. Students who place 1st or 2nd at the regional level fair, that is ISEF-affiliated, are eligible to compete in a State level ISEF affiliated fair or in National/International competitions; these high-ranking fairs include the Broadcom Masters for students in grades 6 through 8 and the Regeneron-ISEF or Regeneron-STS (Science Talent Search) for high school students.
A Synopsis of Science Fair Pathways for Students Grades 5–12
There are two primary pathways for students participating in science fairs: one focused on exploration and growth, and another designed for students who want to advance through competitive levels. Both are valid, rewarding experiences. Here's a comparison to help families and educators understand the options.
The Perks of Participating in Science Fairs
Students who participate in science fairs at any level get to enjoy bragging rights that can be incorporated into a resume for jobs, internships, and college applications.
The prizes for placing high in competitions such as Broadcom Masters, Regeneron-ISEF, and Regeneron-STS are considerable. In addition to substantial cash awards ranging from $5000 to $250,000 dollars, students can expect scholarships, national press coverage, computers, or paid trips to national or international science symposia. With all of the exposure, renowned science faculty may be contacting YOU to join their research team.
Want Help with Your Science Fair Project?
As a PhD-level biology educator with nearly two decades of experience mentoring students I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this process can be. Whether a student is hesitant or highly motivated, there’s a path that can support their growth, build their confidence, and spark their curiosity.
If your student needs help getting started, choosing a topic, or preparing to present, I offer one-on-one science fair coaching for students in grades 5–12. Click here to schedule a free consultation.