Thread: Science Fair or not?????

Lost it? No, I don't think so.

My middle school is the only one in the county that does not do science fair. Instead we do Invention Convention, where the students, in groups of 1-3, invent something and present it.

The other schools in the district do science fair, and some seem to look down upon us for it. Some of those same teachers, though, are complaining about how the projects seem to be getting worse and worse in quality every year. Are you seeing the same kind of thing?

If so, possibly talk to the other teachers (but only if you think it would do any good) about doing something different for a year or two. You could talk about how science isn't just science projects that are the same year after year.

The only negative thing I can really think of is that some of my students who might be interested in entering the competition of the science fairs don't get the chance to do it. I still give my students the option of doing a science project, but it is after the science fair dates for the county.

I'm interested in what you are going to do about this. Please let us know!

Erin

Still not 100% sure, but I think I am going to offer my students a choice, as well....

1. A traditional science fair project.

2. Entering one of several NASA sponsored contests.

3. Taking part in "Exploravision," a contest sponsored by Toshiba.

All students will be required to do a minimum of one, but may opt to do others as well. Many of my students will want to, as it will boost their science grade.

Our problems don't stem, so much, from a lack of quality as it does an abundance of "help" from families and sibblings. There is a real question as to whether the students do the project or not. As usual, the kids from well to do homes have a clear advantage and as much money and materail as they need.

I will require them to commit to something by a specified date (probably October 15th) and there can be no turning back after the committment.

I've never tried this kind of thing before. It's bound to produce some interesting results.