Science Fair Project-Where do I Begin?

     While working on our group lesson, I've also began my Science Fair Project. Although all my children have participated in science fairs, I have never made one, except for assisting them. So choosing a project while following the project guideline was new to me. So as always, the question is ; "Where do I begin? "
     First, I need to find a project that stays with our group theme of pollution. I uses an internet search for ideas of projects. The project that stands out the most to me is creating my own biogas systems. When vegetable scraps decompose, gases are released. The question is what will release the most gas? This is intriguing to me since I also compost. Do certain items decompose faster than others? Also, does the natural gas released aid in the decomposition process? These are all questions churning in my brain after reading this project. Although I will mainly focus my attention on the original question and project, may I discover other questions? 

     

  After selecting a project, I gather the necessary materials including a cardboard science board. I know taking pictures and recording data is important. It shows the process of the experiment. I follow the printed directions to the project. Will it work? Over the next few days I observe my project and take pictures. I actually begin to enjoy the project. 

     I also ponder how creating my own science fair project will help me better understand my own students? Perhaps by experiencing my own project, I can relate to my students and the assignments they are required to complete. Also, I'm understanding the importance of hands-on lessons. Although most students will work on their projects at home, by displaying them at school, it carries the lesson back into the classroom. By working and creating a science fair project, it bring science to life!

     As I continue to work on my science fair project, I look forward to attending the science fair as a judge next week. Also my project will be on display. Having it next to other projects will give me a good comparison of how I did. Should I have dine the project differently? I'm already asking questions yet my project is not finished. This is the sign of enjoyment!