What Makes a Good Project Question?

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 #1A: What Makes a Good Project Question?

1. Read the Science Fair Project Question guide for more information about how to pick a project question and examples of good project questions.
2. Answer the following questions to check your learning:
   1. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good science fair project question?
      It should be interesting to work on for several weeks.

      It should have reliable sources of information.

      It should measure changes using quantifiable data.

      It should require rare and expensive materials.
      Well done! Good science fair project questions should be practical and feasible, not requiring rare and expensive materials.
      Nice try! Review the section on creating a good question to understand what characteristics are important.
   2. Which of the following should be included in a good science fair project question?
      Multiple variables that you can change.

      One factor (variable) that you can change and at least one factor (variable) that you can measure using numbers or a simple presence/absence test.

      A question that is easy to answer with a simple yes or no.

      An idea that is chosen at random.
      Great job! Including one variable to change and one to measure ensures that your experiment is a fair test that can yield clear and reliable results.
      Nice try! Review the characteristics of a good project question to understand the importance of focusing on specific variables.
   3. All of these are examples of science fair projects that should be avoided EXCEPT:
      A project that requires people to recall things they did in the past.

      A project that involves the effect of colored light or music/talking on plants.

      A project that investigates the best material for thermal insulation.

      A project that involves consumer product testing (e.g., comparing brands of paper towels).

      A project that measures the effect of running, music, or video games on blood pressure.
      Excellent! A project that investigates the best material for thermal insulation is a good choice because it involves clear, reliable, and measurable variables.
      Nice try! Review the list of project types to avoid so you understand why certain projects are discouraged and identify what makes a project suitable.