Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I have a student in co-op class who wants to do the geodesoic science fair project.
I'm not following how to form a hypothesis...."determining the strength to weight ratio of the resulting dome."
How is an appropriate question asked? An educated guess as to how many magazines before the dome
collapses?
Is this more of a demonstration/activity than a science fair project? Should they build a square or rectangular
"building" of the same dimensions and see which collapse first?
I feel like I'm missing something and am not sure how to guide my student. Help!
Thanks!

Hi Shellie39,

It sounds like right now your student's question is, "What is the strength-to-weight ratio of this one geodesic dome that I'm building?" In my view, that project is a demonstration, not an experiment. This is because there isn't a clear independent variable in that question. One option would be for the student to build a handful of domes of different designs. Or, as you suggest, build a square or rectangular building to compare with the geodesic dome. The hypothesis would then be something along the lines of, "I hypothesis that (this specific building) will the highest strength-to-weight ratio because (give a reason)."

I hope this helps. Post back as you have other questions.