Science Papers, Science Fairs and Homeschool
Good Research Makes Good Papers and Posters, Keep it Clear, Simple
Jun 8, 2009
Scientists are born every day. Different people have unique personal skills and talents fit for certain types of work or careers. Are scientists, doctors, dentists, lawyers, or whoever, naturals to that field, or are they somehow trained and grown into those vocations? This question will remain unanswered, and left for others to debate and decide. One thing is sure, training in the scientific method and scientific writing benefits all who reasonably apply themselves to the task. The purpose here is to encourage those who want, those who can, and those who influence others to embark upon the less-traveled science road. Today, more than ever, scientists and mathematicians are needed and in demand.
Science Projects, Choose Well, Choose Wisely, Begin Early
Science projects should be chosen carefully and well. Science projects should be:
- thoughtful and of interest to young scientist-investigators.
- reasonable—easy to design and do.
- good examples of the scientific method.
- safe, not dangerous.
- capable of completion in a reasonable time.
Research Guidelines for Science Fair and Student Research Projects
Science Fair projects and themes typically are approved by the student's science teacher. Here are some important ideas:
- compose a list of at least 3 possible projects. Think about projects that interest young investigators and people in general. Possible projects might include: a. Can the abrasiveness of different toothpastes be determined by physical and microscopic studies? b. Can toothpastes inhibit microbial growth? c. Can friction differences be determined using inclined planes and standard simple model sleds?
- choose a reasonable hypothesis (pl. hypotheses) for each project, e.g. : a. Different toothpastes have abrasives and some abrasives can be detected. b. Toothpastes can inhibit microbial growth. c. It is possible to determine friction effects on inclined planes using test sleds or flat objects.
- seek a mentor, in addition to the science teacher; helpful mentors include: researchers at city, state, federal facilities, college or university teachers and professors, businesses such as plant nurseries, electric and water companies and similar entities. Mentors help guide, advise and direct wisely. They coordinate work with the student's science teacher.
- plan the research schedule for library research and teacher-mentor time; gather materials and supplies, notebook, calculator.
- budget the project, so the cost is known. Keep cost low.
- begin when all the above are done, and approval has been given.
Doing Science Projects, Beginning, Middle and End
The science project begins in real time.
- Maintain a Scientific Notebook. Student's Name is on the cover, science project name, and class number and other relevant information. Keep it neat, clear, complete. Number each page and date all entries.
- List all the Materials that are used and provide detailed notes on the Methods. Make sure anyone could understand what is written in the notebook.
- Prepare Results Tables and Graphs when appropriate. Take any needed digital photos to show setup and design of various experiments.
- Repeat each experiment at least two or three times to demonstrate reproducibility.
- Maintain a regular research schedule and follow a timetable to finish the project on time.
- Discuss the project regularly with the teacher and mentor. Even fellow student scientists might be involved.
Science Projects and Science Fair Research Report/Papers and Posters
- With notebook in hand, begin to write a Title, Abstract, Introduction for the research done.
- Next, do Materials and Methods writing. Be clear, concise, and complete. Ask — could someone repeat the same experiments from these writings?
- Results section is written next with appropriate figures, graphs and tables added as needed.
- Discussion is the final big section of the paper or poster. Discuss the experiments in a logical, integrated, orderly and clear fashion. Remember clarity gives a reader knowledge parity. Too many words kill, too few can leave too many questions unanswered.
- Literature Cited is last.
- Acknowledgements at the end are for those who helped make the project possible — teacher, mentor, donors of materials or supplies.
Do several drafts and revisions of the paper or poster. Do good writing for good science!
To read more go to: Scientific Methods and Science Papers.
Remember there are many projects for everyone to have fun.
Source
Pechennik, J.A. 2001. A Short Guide To Writing About Biology. 4th ed. Longman Publishers. 318 pp
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