| It usually happens in fourth grade: Your child comes | | | | the experiment in front of judges? |
| home with a packet of material about the upcoming | | | | Once you find out what kind of science project your |
| science fair. For many children, this is the first time | | | | fourth grader needs, it's time to find out what project |
| they've been required to do a science project. They | | | | he or she wants to do. As you search, keep the |
| may be excited, or they may face the prospect with | | | | following questions in mind: |
| dread. Whichever, it's up to the parent to make sure | | | | 1. Can I find the materials needed for the science |
| that the science project gets done. | | | | experiment? Once my son needed powdered laundry |
| Your child may have very specific ideas about what | | | | starch for a project. Since nobody irons much |
| he or she would like to submit to the science fair. | | | | anymore, it's not easy to find! |
| Before you let excitement rule, however, you need to | | | | 2. Are the supplies expensive? One science project |
| find out the specific science project guidelines your | | | | we considered called for SIX reusable hand warmers. |
| child must follow. First of all, what type of science | | | | They are almost $6 each, plus shipping. We found |
| project is required? Unbelievably, there are five kinds: | | | | something else to do. |
| Investigative projects - Most science fairs require | | | | 3. Can the science project supplies be located in time? |
| students to do an experiment, and usually, this is an | | | | If you have to order something, will it arrive in time for |
| investigative, or investigatory science project. | | | | you to do the project thoroughly? |
| Demonstration projects - This type of project is usually | | | | 4. Is this project within my child's ability level? Is it safe? |
| done in class as opposed to a science fair, with the | | | | Science projects are for your CHILD to do - with your |
| student demonstrating a scientific principle to the class. | | | | assistance. Not the other way around. |
| Research project - Basically, a research project is a | | | | 5. Will this project really work? My mom tried for years |
| report on a scientific topic. | | | | to make a battery out of a lemon, and never |
| Models - Models are a three dimensional | | | | succeeded. |
| representation of an object or a concept in science. | | | | A 4th grade science project is a huge undertaking. |
| Collections - In this type of project a collection of | | | | Take it from us - we have four sons, each of whom |
| objects is displayed to give an overview of a topic. | | | | was required to enter the science fair in fourth grade. |
| Also be aware of any restrictions the science fair or | | | | We've had failures and successes, tears and smiles. |
| your school may have. Can you use/display food? | | | | And always, after the 4th grade project, we had the |
| What about animals? Will your child have to perform | | | | 5th grade project right around the corner! |