Deadline for choosing a topic for your project is September 30, 2011

Hello everyone,

Your first Science Project checkpoint is almost here (September 30, 2011 which is Friday). This is the criteria that you must meet for your project.

• Choose a topic that is fun and interesting!  If you choose something boring, you will not work on it.
• Your project must be testable and repeatable. A minimum of five (5) different tests must be run on your experimental design. The more testing you can do, the better off you will be.  You must be able to identify the independent and dependent variables as well as all controls that you have on your project.
• No models or demonstrations.  (No volcanoes, no solar system models)
• Robotics ARE allowed.
• Project must be 7th grade level or higher in difficulty
• When you choose your project, make sure to have parental approval.  Some projects will require quite an expense when you perform them. Make sure to take this into consideration and discuss with your parent BEFORE you ask if your topic is appropriate. 
• Consider the availability of chemicals, lab equipment and anything else that you may need to complete your testing.  Is it easy to get and do?  Consider that household chemicals are the most appropriate types that you can use. Do not expect the school to be able to lend or supply these things to you.
• When possible, avoid using humans for testing.  If humans are used, a sampling of 200 people or more will be required (for instance, if you do some type of survey).
• Avoid the use of warm-blooded animals in your testing, as shot records must be provided to the science fair coordinator if you decide to use them.  Cold-blooded animals are typically not a problem, although you should also avoid the use of venomous animals.
• Avoid the use of weapons or fire.  If you use either of these, you are required to create a video of you performing the experiment, repeatedly, with an adult present to supervise the activity.
• See my webpage for links to find an appropriate website to locate a project.  

Useful links on Mrs. Ramsey's website

Keep in mind that you and your project will be subject to being chosen in December to represent our block in the Indian Ridge Science Fair. If your project is chosen as one of the best, you will not have the option to back out, and you will represent block 7B, the Junior Knights.  However, extra credit will be given!

Science Project Documents (print these, you will need them)
The information here will help you with all parts of your project.  Ideas are included.