The question comes like clockwork each year: "What can I do for my science project?"
While the library has scads of books about do-it-yourself science experiments, you might find the perfect project without leaving your house. The Internet is a great resource for science-related activities, and with the following tips you could create the contest winner.
Before you do anything, check out the Science Fair Center at HomeworkSpot.com. You'll find the best science fair sites, project ideas and hints, report writing resources and much more. Other comprehensive resources include:
Once you're acquainted with how science fairs work, it's time to choose a project. The first thing to remember is that there are tons of sciences to explore: astronomy, biology, chemistry, physics or meteorology. Also remember that complicated does not equal better. Sometimes simple, straightforward projects are more meaningful. This mold experiment is a prime example:
To grow mold, collect dust on a cotton swab and rub it on a piece of bread. Then, using a eye dropper, put 5 or 6 drops of water on the bread. Put the bread in a sandwich bag, then into a milk carton. Record how long it takes the mold to grow. Vary the experiment by growing mold on stale bread or toast. Also try growing it in hot and cold places. Record your findings.
This and similar experiments can be found at the Thinking Fountain. The site includes a great list of ideas in addition to reference book resources and an online gallery that showcases finished projects. Here's a quick summary of other sites that offer great ideas -- or at least good starting points:
Science Fair Central The Discovery Channel has devoted this space to "creative investigations into the real world." The site helps students get started on a project, offers teachers a science fair organizer and shows parents how they can get involved.
bigchalk and StudyWeb Though these sites cover all school subjects, both have excellent science project resources. Homework Central breaks down the projects from simple to advanced; StudyWeb includes some visuals with the instructions.
Science Explorer This site explains not only how to do the activities, but also why they do what they do.
Science Fair Ideas A huge laundry list of ideas that are divided into categories. Whether you have a subject in mind and want to search for it, or browsing is more your style, this site gets those juices flowing.
When you think about it, everyone wins with a Science Fair Web site. Students will appreciate the publicity, and you'll be helping the next batch of students, parents and teachers in search of project ideas!