How to Start Your Science Project

1.  Have a good project idea. You'll find over a hundred ideas by clicking here. The best ones come from you.   Plan out your project in advance.  Research your project by finding three sources of information such as books, web sites, or magazine articles.  The library is the best place to start.  Write down your sources; you can ‘t complete the entry forms without them.

2.  Access the entry form wizard by clicking here, or a complete list of documents may be accessed by clicking here. Except for the signatures, you can fill them out “on screen” before printing them.

• Checklist for Adult Sponsor
• Student Checklist (1A)
• Research Plan Attachment
• Approval Form (1B)

3. Begin with the Research Plan Attachment.  On the blank part of that page, create four lines: A, B, C, and D as required.  On these lines, you will enter the problem you are asking and its method of solution (including research).  This should be easy, if you have done your work in Step One.  If not, then try again when you are ready. When you have finished, get your parents’ signatures on the Approval Form (1B).

4. Fill out Research Plan (1A) or (1A) - TEAM.  Your teacher's name goes on Line 3.  See your teacher if you have to fill out Line 4.  Leave Line 5 blank and fill it in by hand, after your project has been approved.   If you fill in line 8, you will have to complete additional forms (see below).

5. Have a parent or guardian sign and date the Approval Form (1B).  Do the same yourself.  Now submit all forms, including the Checklist, to your teacher.  If your project involves animals with backbones, people, or could be dangerous, you will have to fill out additional forms.