The Scientific Method

Problem/Question Hypothesis Experiment Design Data Collection and Journal Analysis Conclusion Display

Purpose of the Science Fair The primary purpose of the science fair project is to teach the scientific method of investigation. This systematic way to approach technical problems or problems arising from student curiosity about a scientific topic, can help students in approaching any number of problems in their futures. Systematic thinking and planning are key to success in tomorrow's workplace. This effort affords students the opportunity to experience formal investigation in a competitive environment while enabling them to learn from thier peers.

Who Participates All students at San Benancio Middle School who want to participate on a volunteer basis for extra academic credit. Class time emphasis will be placed at the seventh grade level to prepare students for the science fair.

Criteria for Success Students are to answer a scientific question by doing an experiment and analyzing the results. The successful student will be one who thinks of a clear question, develops an hypothesis (educated guess) regarding the results of the experiment to answer the question, documents clear measurements and observations, and draws sensible conclusions which refer back to the original hypothesis. The hypothesis will preferably contain a cause (what change did the experimenter make) and an effect (what happened as a result of the change). An example is: If I reduce the amount of light (cause), a plant will grow slower (effect). Judges will carefully look at how the student controlled the conditions of the experiment to assure that the results came from the changes that were made and that control experiments are done to provide some way to measure the results against.

The Science Fair The Science Fair will be the Monterey County Science Fair which will be held on a schedule given above at California State Monterey Bay on the old Ft. Ord. Our students will participate with schools from throughout the county in at least 10 different categories. Details will be available in the near future regarding the categories, prizes and dates. This exciting event will give students the opportunity to converse with the judges as well as with other participants.

Science Fair Prizes: Students will be eligible to win first, second or third places in one of the scientific categories. First place winners in any of the categories will be eligible to participate in the California State Science Fair in Los Angeles in May.

Good Luck to all and remember: An interesting hypothesis and well documented project,
increases your possibility for science fair placement.