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Find a Project Idea

1 - Ask a Question

The scientific method starts when you ask a question about something that you observe: How, What, When, Who, Which, Why, or Where? For a science fair project, your question should typically be something you can measure, preferably with a number, and should be something that is interesting and important to you.

Task #1B: Find a Project Idea

Learning Objectives
  • Choose a project that is feasible with available materials and time, and that meets the requirements of your teacher and/or science fair.
  • Write a testable project question based on a Science Buddies Project Idea or other project idea that you are genuinely interested in and is supported by sufficient reference materials.
  • Use a given science fair project procedure to find potential safety hazards and suggest appropriate safety measures to reduce these risks.
Instructions
  1. Find a project idea using one or more of the following methods:
    • Option 1: Science Buddies Topic Selection Wizard (TSW)
      • Be sure to check the ‘Method’ section near the top of the project and pick a project that follows the Scientific Method.
      • Note that projects marked with an * are Abbreviated Project Ideas without provided procedures. These are recommended for advanced students experienced in independent research. Please check with your teacher to see if this type of project is suitable for you. Also, check the 'Variations' section at the bottom of each Project Idea for additional advanced options.
    • Option 2: Search the Science Buddies Science Projects page for a project that interests you. From this page, you can filter by area of science, grade level, cost, and more.
    • Option 3: An internet or library search.
    • Option 4: Develop your own idea based on a question you have. Discuss possible ideas with your classmates, teacher, and family.
    NOTE: Finding the right project can take time! You may want to keep a list of options that seem interesting to you as you come across them and then narrow the list down based on the checklist below.

  • Make sure your project idea meets each of the criteria on the checklist below:

    Project Idea Checklist

  • Check the option that best applies to you and share your project below:
    Link to your Science Buddies Project Idea, another project idea, or the title of the book your idea came from (skip if you thought of your own project idea):
    If you are doing your own project idea or a Variation from a Science Buddies Project Idea, explain it here:
  • Why is this project interesting or important to you? Can you think of any ways to customize it to fit your specific interests?
    Your Answer:
  • Will your project require any safety equipment or have any steps you need to follow to stay safe during your experiment? Explain how you will stay safe during your project.
    Explain:

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