Fourth Grade Science Projects (262 results)

Here's how.

Science Buddies' fourth grade science projects are the perfect way for fourth grade students to have fun exploring science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Our fourth grade projects are written and tested by scientists and are specifically created for use by students in the fourth grade. Students can choose to follow the science experiment as written or put their own spin on the project.

For a personalized list of science projects, fourth graders can use the Science Buddies Topic Selection Wizard. The wizard asks students to respond to a series of simple statements and then uses their answers to recommend age-appropriate projects that fit their interests.

Balloon-Powered Car Challenge

Science Fair Project Idea

Do you think you could build a car powered by nothing but air? A balloon-powered car is pushed forward by air escaping from a balloon, and it is fun and easy to build with materials you already have around your house. Can you imagine how you would want your own balloon-powered car to look? Can you design a car that will travel as far as possible? You can even measure your car's speed using your smartphone and a special sensor app. Get ready to grab some simple supplies to bring your idea to… Read more

Turn Milk into Plastic!

Science Fair Project Idea

"Plastic made from milk" —that certainly sounds like something made-up. If you agree, you may be surprised to learn that in the early 20th century, milk was used to make many different plastic ornaments —including jewelry for Queen Mary of England! In this chemistry science project, you can figure out the best recipe to make your own milk plastic (usually called casein plastic) and use it to make beads, ornaments, or other items. Read more

Tallest Paper Tower Challenge

Science Fair Project Idea

In this engineering challenge, you will use limited materials to build a paper tower as tall as possible, but there's a twist! Your tower must also support a heavy weight at the top without collapsing. Follow the contest rules to try it out and enter the 2021 Fluor Engineering Challenge! Teachers, lesson plan versions of this challenge are also available. Read more

Archimedes Squeeze: At What Diameter Does an Aluminum Boat Sink?

Science Fair Project Idea

Where do you get your best ideas? At school with your friends? When you are out for a bike ride? Over 2,200 years ago, a scientist named Archimedes got one of his best ideas when he sat down in his bath. Eureka! He went running through the streets without even bothering with his clothes. What was he so excited about? He had discovered that when objects, like his body, are placed in water, water is pushed out of the way. Have you noticed that, too? The weight of the water that is pushed out of… Read more

What Materials Can Block a Wi-Fi Signal?

Science Fair Project Idea

Have you ever suffered from poor Wi-Fi reception for your smartphone, tablet, or laptop? Certain materials can actually block a Wi-Fi signal; do you think that could be part of your problem? In this science project, you will do an experiment to find out which materials cause the biggest drop in signal strength from a wireless router. Read more

Ball Launcher Challenge

Science Fair Project Idea

Try your hand at this engineering challenge. Can you build a "launcher" device to launch a ball as far as possible and a "receiver" to catch it? Building a receiver provides an extra twist to a traditional catapult project. Add to the challenge by using a limited set of materials to build your machine and calculate a score based on your throw distance and materials used. Read more

What's the Best Container for Elephant Toothpaste?

Science Fair Project Idea

Check out this video from former NASA engineer Mark Rober, where he sets out to reclaim his title for the world's largest and tallest elephant toothpaste reaction. In the video, he experiments with different container shapes and sizes to determine which will result in the most spectacular reaction. You can turn this into a science project of your own! How do differently sized or shaped containers affect the foaming reaction? Can you find an optimal container that makes the reaction go the… Read more

Why Does Fruit Turn Brown?

Science Fair Project Idea

Have you ever wondered why apple slices turn brown once you cut them, or why a yellow banana gets dark spots over time? In this project you will find out why this happens, and how you can keep your apple slices looking fresh! Read more

Potato Battery: How to Turn Produce into Veggie Power!

Science Fair Project Idea

Imagine telling your friends about your latest science project: using a battery to make a light turn on. You might get some blank stares...sounds a little boring and basic, right? Now tell them you will do it with a potato! Yes, you can actually use fruits and vegetables as part of an electric power source! Batteries power many things around you, including cell phones, wireless video game controllers, and smoke detectors. In this science project, you will learn about the basics of battery… Read more

How Salty Does the Sea Have to Be for an Egg to Float?

Science Fair Project Idea

Some objects float on top of the ocean, and other objects sink to the bottom. Why? Try this eggsperiment to find out! Read more

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