What is a Science project?

A science project is an educational activity for students involving experiments or construction of models in one of the science disciplines. Students may present their science project at a science fair, so they may also call it a science fair project. Science projects may be classified into four main types. Science projects are done by students all over the world.

Experimental projects

Experimental projects, also known as investigatory projects, start with a question, use the scientific method to complete the research, and end with a report detailing the results and conclusions.

Engineering projects

Engineering projects, also known as technology projects, start with a design of a machine or mechanical structure with the purpose of improving strength or performance. Researchers implement all their design ideas in a model they construct. The model will be tested to evaluate the design.

Display projects

Display projects involve a creative assembly of a board and construction of a model to show a visual representation of a larger fact. Making a model of the solar system, a house, or of a simple electric circuit are considered display projects.

Theoretical projects

Theoretical projects may involve the same format as experimental or engineering projects.

Everyone gets a little competitive when science fair comes around. Parents can sometimes go overboard when looking for the best science projects for their kids to do. What you want to focus on is the best for your child and that they will enjoy!
Sometimes the assignment that is sent home is open-ended. Do a project the child is interested in. Well, that leave little open for discussion! Here are some Search Engine Tips to help you sort through the gazillion choices that will pop up if you type in science fair projects int the Google Search Box.

One idea is to use the grade level along with your search terms. 4th grade science fair projects will get your more than just science fair projects. You could go science projects for fourth grade. Try it all ways before and after and with the number and the number written out.

Another tip is to try the adding the words quick, easy or simple. Or mix and match them, quick and easy, or fast and simple. This does not mean you are looking for a that concept is too simple, what it mean is that most of what pops up in the search should have directions will be easy to follow. There is also a better chance of having the ingredients or supplies you need be common everyday supplies you can find around your house.

You can also add in for kids to the end of your search terms as that is also helpful. It will filter out projects designed for older student or are too sophisticated.

If you have a 11+ year old add the words middle school to the search, it does it the other way, weeds out the projects that are too young. For 10 and younger you can add in for elementary which will do the same thing, but it is not as effective as using the grade level.

It should go without saying, that in your searches you try a various combination of search terms. If your start with science fair projects, and use the above tips, so another on with science experiments or just science projects. You will be surprised that some little gem may not show up on one search but pops us on another one.
Some of the results will be articles, some will be forums or blog discussions about products and others will be websites. It will take some time to go through it all, but you should find a good list for your child to choose from.