Homeschoolers and Science Fair Projects
Science fair projects are the real deal in public schools. Just about all grade levels take part in the exploration and demonstration of science through science fair projects. The question is....are our kids missing out if they do not attend public school? Should we have our children participate in an at home science fair? Should we as parents try to arrange a homeschool science fair?
The idea of a science fair project tends to dredge up feelings of dread, confusion, and panic, but this does not need to be the case.
What would you need to do?
To start up a science fair at home you would only have to assign the kids the project and let them decide where to go from there. An at home science fair would not require the standardized displays as do the public schools, but if you were looking to teach the kids about following the rules of a “real” fair you may want to construct a list of standards your kids must follow. The at home fair could be as simple or as uniform as you like. You may want to have the kids think of an experiment and perform it in front of the family. Then have the kids explain why they decided on that project, what supplies they needed, how they performed the projects and what the results were in the end. This could turn out to be a kind of family fun night.
On the other hand, you could have the kids write out the steps and present it as a “real” fair project.
Another fun idea would be to have your homeschool group organize a “homeschool science fair” night. Basic rules could be set on the size of the projects, the type of written material that should be included and other safety considerations.
This could be a demonstration night where each child gets a turn to explain and possibly demonstrate their project. It could be the type of fair where prizes are awarded.....or maybe a ribbon or certificate for each child that participates.
Parents could decide to forgo the costly back boards and just have the reports neatly laid on the display table. The public could be invited to attend the evening. Refreshments could be served.
The next few articles will deal with how to start and complete a project, how to decide on a project and how to organize a science fair at home or with your club.
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