Science+Fair+2012

Science Fairs are popular in the United States, where students investigate a scientific concept and then present their findings at an exhibition, as a poster, diorama or other display. Each student (or group of students) will have a page where they could post their research question, hypothesis, experimental method, data and findings. Students can present their project as a powerpoint, movie, podcast or report on the wiki page.

__**Why participate in a science fair?**__ Science fairs give you the opportunity to study a topic that interests you. Projects can be as varied as your interests, such as sports, music, art, rocketry, psychology, and computers. Through your projects, you will discover that science is found in every niche of the universe. Further, science projects allow you to:
 * Use the scientific method to develop an understanding of controls and variables
 * Take an open and creative approach to problem solving
 * Sharpen your writing skills
 * Gain skills in library use
 * Learn that a successful outcome is based not on personal opinion but on scientific fact
 * Develop time management
 * Develop public speaking skills as they present projects on video or to classmates and judges
 * Compete in a science fair where you have the opportunity to be recognized for academic achievement

**__Each project and presentation should include the following steps:__**
 * 1) Decide on an investigation and research question or hypothesis.
 * 2) Check with your teacher - is it achieveable?
 * 3) Apply for registration with the wiki and an application form.
 * 4) Submit the application form and a page for your project will be added to the wiki.
 * 5) Start your investigation with the following steps:
 * Introduction, Background and Purpose
 * Hypothesis
 * Methods and Procedure
 * Results and Observations
 * Discussion and Conclusion
 * Acknowledgements, References or Bibliography