Choose A CATEGORy
There
are four different "categories" under which you can enter a Science Fair Project.
All four categories are eligible for ribbons based on the judging sheets.
THE FAMILY CATEGORY
This is the chance for the whole family to get involved in contributing a group science project. This is also the opportunity for Mom and Dad (or Aunt and Uncle, Grandma and Grandpa) to work on the science project they have always wanted, but never had the opportunity. In judging this project, the adult part of the participation will be recognized and valued. The judges will be looking for projects that are understandable to the student members of the Family group.
THE INDIVIDUAL CATEGORY
This is the opportunity for the older student to work almost completely alone in producing a Science Fair Entry. The judges expect that very little if any parent work has been done on these projects. Parents who wish to give advice about the design of the research, or the construction of the display are welcome to do so. They must not, however, participate in the actual experimentation or preparation of the display.
THE GROUP CATEGORY
This category involves no more than four students, perhaps some from different families. Minimal adult help is encouraged in this kind of project, as long as a written statement about the level of adult help is clearly visible on the project display. The adults participating in this kind of project can be teachers, scout leaders, adult friends, or parents who desire to work with a group of students.
THE CLASS PROJECT
Often, a classroom teacher will choose to enter a classroom science activity into the Science Fair as a Class Project. These projects will meet all of the criteria of the other science fair projects and will adhere to the rules of the Science Fair. It is assumed that a majority of the children participating in the class science fair project have participated fully in designing and carrying out the project. Even though the students have participated under the direction of the classroom teacher or a visiting science consultant, they fully understand the process and the results of the class project.
