It develops problem-solving skills and allows children to learn and experience the scientific method.
A science fair is an opportunity for a child to showcase their learning process. Each child displays their work using a trifold board, written summary, and oral presentation. If possible, they may display their project in front of their board.
How can I help my child?
Start by helping your child focus on a topic that they are already interested in. Does your child really like snakes, rocks, or the stars? Maybe they love anything mechanical. Reminding your child of what they really love to learn about is a great place to start.
Next, guide your child to follow the rubric. A rubric is simply an outline of what your child’s finished project should be like. It’s a guide that will help the judges assign points. The rubric will be sent to you once you register your child(ren).
Schedule time each week to work on the project, so that it will be done in time for the fair.
Take photos of the process and get them printed (optional, but looks great on the trifold board).
Guide your child in collecting and analyzing data.
Guide your child in writing a summary of their process, including what they learned and what went well/not so well. Do some research with your child. Teach them to site their sources.
Assist with the design elements of their display board/trifold board. Ensure all the scientific methods steps are displayed and explained.
Encourage them to practice their presentation. Create a short index card with talking points that will help them share the highlights of what they did and learned.
