This handbook is adapted from "A Guide to the Best Science Fair Projects" by Janice VanCleave. Ms. VanCleave has also prepared a searchable archive of answers to questions about science fair projects.
So you're going to do a science fair project. Great! Your work
could be chosen as an entry in your school fair and even in regional, state, or
national competitions. As a participant in any science fair, you'll get to show
off your work and possibly receive achievement awards. But most important,
you'll also learn a lot about science by observing and sharing with other
science fair participants.
A science project is like a mystery in which you are the
detective searching for answers. Science projects let you practice and exhibit
your detective skills. You not only get to select which mystery to solve, but
you can creatively design methods for uncovering clues that will lead to the
final revelation of who, what, when, where, how, and why. This book will give
you guidance and ideas. It's your job to discover the answers!
This book covers the eight most important points you need to
know for science fair success:
