elementary school science projects hypothesis

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Hypothesis for Kids with Examples

When you begin exploring a  science topic , one of the first steps in the  scientific method  is making a  hypothesis . But what exactly does that mean? Let’s break it down and learn how to write a simple hypothesis for kids. Use it in your next science experiment , and understand the key parts that make a hypothesis testable!

What Is a Hypothesis for Kids?

A  hypothesis  is more than an  educated guess  about what will happen during an experiment. It’s your prediction based on the information you already know. A hypothesis is part of the scientific method , where you make a guess and then test that guess through  experimentation .

Why Use the Scientific Method?

It is a process or method of research to help solve a problem. Try incorporating it into your next science experiment with the helpful examples below. The scientific method helps us:

• Stay Organized : It gives us clear steps to investigate one thing at a time.
• Make Better Predictions : It helps us think carefully about what might happen (make a hypothesis) before we begin testing.
• Learn from Mistakes : If our experiment doesn’t go as planned, we can understand why and try again.
• Find Real Answers : The scientific method is a reliable way to find answers to questions based on what we observe, not just what we think or feel.

💡 Read more about the Scientific Method [here] and Variables in Science [here] .

What Are the Scientific Method Steps?

• Ask a Question Start by being curious! Ask, “What happens if I plant a seed in sand instead of soil?”
• Do Research Before jumping into an experiment, gather information. You can look in books, ask a teacher, or search the internet. Doing research helps you understand what others already know about your topic.
• Make a Hypothesis A  hypothesis  is not just an  educated guess . It is an informed statement based on what you already know. After doing your research, you might predict, “I think the plant will not grow as well in sand as it does in soil.”
• Test the Hypothesis Now it’s time to experiment! Try planting seeds in both sand and soil and see what happens. This step lets you find out if your guess was right.
• Collect Data Write down what you observe. Maybe the plant in soil grows faster and taller than the one in sand. Keeping a  journal  or recording data helps you see patterns.
• Draw Conclusions Look at your results and decide if your hypothesis was correct. If it wasn’t, that’s okay! You’ve still learned something new.
• Share Results Scientists often share what they’ve learned with others. You might share your findings with your class or write a report. Keep a journal or notebook to refer back to for other experiments.

How Does Scientific Research Help?

Research is an important part of the scientific method because it helps us:

• Build on What We Know : We can learn from what others have already discovered before experimenting.
• Make Better Hypotheses : When we research, we make more  informed predictions  about what might happen during the experiment. We don’t just guess!

Why Should We Use the Scientific Method?

The scientific method isn’t just for scientists—it’s for anyone who wants to solve problems, answer questions, and learn about the world. By following these steps, we can:

• Think critically about what we’re investigating.
• Test our ideas in a fair and organized way.
• Learn from our experiments and improve our understanding.

💡 The scientific method teaches us that even if our hypothesis is wrong, that’s still valuable! Every experiment is a chance to learn something new, making science fun and exciting for all ages.

How to Write a Simple Hypothesis for Kids

You can follow this easy format to write a  simple hypothesis with kids :

💡 “If [I change this], then [this will happen].”

For example:

• If  I add more water to the plant,  then  it will grow taller.
• If  I heat the water,  then  the candy will dissolve faster.

When you make a hypothesis, you need to consider the   variables  in your experiment. A  variable  is anything that can change in the experiment. There are different  types of variables  to consider:

• Independent Variable  – This is the part of the experiment you change on purpose. For example, the amount of water you give a plant.
• Dependent Variable  – This is the result you measure in response to the independent variable. For example, how tall the plant grows.
• Free Science Worksheets

Add this helpful science information pack to your next science experiment!

Hypothesis for Kids Examples

Here are some examples of hypotheses that are  grade-level appropriate :

• Elementary school : “If I use warm water, then sugar will dissolve faster than in cold water.”
• Middle school : “If I increase the  density  of the liquid, then the object will float higher.”

💡By focusing on the independent and dependent variables , you’ll create a clear and testable hypothesis.

Using a Hypothesis with Young Kids

You can introduce the idea of  hypotheses  to young kids and even preschoolers! While the concept needs to be simplified, young children are naturally curious and already make guesses about how things work in their everyday play. By guiding them to think of these guesses as  predictions  they can test, you can start teaching them the basics of a hypothesis.

How to Introduce Hypotheses to Preschoolers

For young children, using language they understand is key. Instead of saying “hypothesis,” you might say:

• “What do you  think  will happen?”
• “Let’s make a  prediction .”

Simple Steps to Writing a Hypothesis with Preschoolers

• Start with a question : Ask them something simple and observable, like “What do you think will happen if we add water to the sand?”
• Make a prediction : Encourage them to say what they think will happen. For example, “I think the sand will get wet and sticky.”
• Test it : Let them try the simple science experiment to see if their prediction was right.

Simple Science Experiments for Hypotheses

Here are some great  science projects  where you can practice writing a hypothesis and testing it through  experimentation :

Plant Growth Experiment : Observe how different amounts of light affect plant growth. You might write a hypothesis like: “If I put the plant in more sunlight, then it will grow faster.”

Paper Towel Absorbency Test : Compare different brands of paper towels to see which absorbs more water. A hypothesis example could be: “If I use Brand X, then it will absorb more water than Brand Y.”

Floating and Sinking with Density : Test how different liquids (like water and oil) affect the ability of objects to float. Write a hypothesis such as: “If I place the object in oil, then it will float higher than in water due to the difference in  density .”

Baking Soda and Vinegar Volcano : This classic experiment shows how mixing baking soda and vinegar creates a reaction that produces gas. You can write a hypothesis such as: “If I increase the amount of baking soda, then the reaction will create more gas and a bigger ‘eruption.’”

Keeping Track of Your Hypothesis

As part of the scientific method, it is important to keep detailed records of your hypothesis and experiments in  journals or a scientific notebook . This will help you track your predictions, results, and conclusions.

💡 Writing things down helps you reflect on what worked and what didn’t—and it’s a key part of learning from your experiments!

Practice Makes Perfect!

Writing a hypothesis is a skill that gets better with practice. You’ll become a stronger scientist by starting with a simple hypothesis and using it in experiments with clear variables. Test different science activities, make educated guesses, and discover what happens!

💡 Whether your hypothesis is right or wrong, what’s most important is learning through experimentation.

More Science Projects for Kids

• Alka Seltzer Reaction Rate Experiment
• Dissolving Candy Experiment
• What Dissolves Experiment
• Sugar and Yeast Experiment
• Heat Absorption Experiment
• Plant Growth Experiment

Helpful Science Resources

Here are a few resources to help you introduce science more effectively to your kids or students and feel confident presenting materials. You’ll find helpful free printables throughout.

• Printable Science Project Pack 👇
• Best Science Practices (as it relates to the scientific method)
• Science Vocabulary
• All About Scientists
• DIY Science Kits
• Science Tools for Kids
• Scientific Method for Kids
• Citizen Science Guide
• Join us in the Club

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Elementary School Science Fair Project Guide

by Science Explorers | Dec 5, 2018 | Blog | 0 comments

Science fair projects are activities that are both fun and educational for students. They can pick topics that pique their curiosity, test their hypotheses by creating their own experiments and learn how to   use the scientific method   — a practice used by professional scientists around the world.

However, there are many steps to take to make this project a success, and we’re here to guide you through each one of them.

What Is a Science Fair?

A science fair refers to an event, often held in elementary schools, where   students share experiments   that they’ve conducted and the results that they have found. In some fairs, students will compete for prizes, while others are less competitive.

Science fairs in the U.S. can be traced back to the E.W. Scripps’ Science Service. The mission of this organization, which was established in 1921, was to increase interest and awareness of science by teaching scientific concepts in simpler, less technical terms. This organization was instrumental in organizing the Science Clubs of America, which in 1950 held a national science fair for the first time.

How to Make an Elementary School Science Fair Project

Follow these steps to get your scientific investigation underway:

• Pick a topic you love:   You’re much more likely to enjoy this process — and do it well — if you pick a topic you’re passionate about. Don’t limit yourself to scientific topics, but rather think of your most intense interests and   how they can be related to science . A science experiment can be created using practically any topic. For instance, if your passion is art, you could investigate the reaction of paint chemicals or how to make artificial colors. Choose a topic that is suitable for your age. While you can pick a topic that is challenging, you don’t want to choose a topic so difficult that you can’t complete it in time.   
• Think of a question:       Once you’ve decided on your topic, think of a question    that you can test   .   
• Formulate a hypothesis:     A hyp   othesis is an attempt to answer your question. 
• Think of a procedure:      A procedure is an experiment that can be conducted to affirm or deny your hypothesis.
• Acquire materials:      Once you know how you’ll conduct your experiment, start gathering materials you’ll need to do it.   
• Record r   esults:      By experimenting, you can see if your hypothesis was correct.   
• Arrive at a conclusion:       Take a good look at the result you got, and determine whether your hypothesis was right or wrong. Also, think of ways you could further explore the question.   As you’re doing your experiment, take notes so that afterward you can more easily share what you did and what you learned.   

How to Prepare Your Poster

After you’ve finished your experiment and drawn your conclusions, the project is only halfway done — now you create a poster that provides a clear overview of what you did.

Creating Your Display Board

Elementary school students create posters with basically the same format as those presented by professional scientists at conferences.   In general, display boards at science fairs are tri-folds, meaning that they’re folded on both sides so that they can easily stand. It’s not uncommon for boards to measure up to 14 inches deep and 3 feet wide. You can find these boards at office supply, craft and drug stores, or you can make your own with cardboard or poster board.

If you decide to make one yourself, it’s probably best to create three separate pieces then attach them with duct tape so that they can easily bend.

Organizing the Display Board

When it comes to organizing your poster, you’ve got several options. However, no matter you decide to do the layout, make sure that it includes these key sections:

• Title:   When writing your title, you can simply go with your question or some other message that grabs your audience’s attention.
• Question:   Clearly state your question. Also, provide some background why this topic interests you and how you thought up the question.
• Hypothesis:   Tell your audience what you guessed the results would be before you conducted the tests.
• Procedures:   Clearly explain the steps you took to test your question and why you decided on that procedure.
• Equipment and materials:   Include a list of the things you needed for your test.
• Data and results:   Describe what happened when you conducted your experiment. Use graphs, charts or other visuals to help convey your results.
• Conclusion:   In your previous step, you just described the data. In this step, you want to make sense of them. Mention whether your hypothesis was correct or not, and explain why you think you got those results. Also, if you were to redo the tests, mention what you would do differently.
• References:   Include the resources you used, whether they’re websites, books or people.
• Your Name:   Also add your grade and the name of your teacher.

Below is an example of a science fair project, including a detailed account of the procedure, results and conclusions.

“Keeping Flowers Beautiful”

2. Question

“What Solution Can Keep Flowers Fresh for the Longest Period of Time?”

I chose this topic for several reasons. First of all, I love flowers, and I’m always trying to figure out better ways to keep them fresh for longer. Also, this issue is of great importance to many industries and consumers since they buy flowers for many occasions including weddings, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Christmas.

Flower shops often provide customers with an additive to put in the water in their vase, but I wanted to question whether this additive is the most effective solution and whether another could work better. In my project, I tested homemade solutions, commercial preservatives and old wives tales.

3. Hypothesis

I believe that some home remedies will be just as effective as the preservative provided by florists. I hypothesize that the most effective solution will be lemon-lime soda because it contains sugar as well as several chemicals that I believe will inhibit the growth of bacteria that could damage the plant.

4. Procedures

Follow these steps to test your hypothesis:

• Thirty (30) daisies (bellis perennis) will be bought from the same store at the same time to make sure they are all equally fresh.
• Using a lab coat, gloves and goggles, certain solutions will be mixed together in 10 one-pint jars with an 8-ounce measuring cup, a tablespoon and a teaspoon. To avoid contamination, wash hands after making each mixture.
• The solutions used are   tap water, distilled water, tap water with a teaspoon of salt, tap water with an aspirin pill, lemon-lime soda, tap water with 1 tablespoon of bleach, tap water with 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cider vinegar, tap water with 1 tablespoon sugar, tap water with 1 tablespoon of mouthwash and tap water with 1 tablespoon of commercial preservative Floralife.
• The stems of the flowers will then be submerged in lukewarm water and clipped at a 45-degree angle. Afterward, they will be put into the solutions. Three specimens will be placed in each of the 10 solutions.
• Every other day, the stems will be cut again and put in fresh solutions. These are considered good florist practices.
• The state of each flower will be examined once a day until either 14 days have passed or nothing remains in the vases. The number of specimens remaining in every solution will also be documented every day, as will their color and droopiness.
• Once their state has been recorded, specimens that are wilting, drooping or browning at the edges will be removed so that the bacteria won’t harm the other specimens in the container.
• A chart that shows how long each specimen stayed fresh will be made, accompanied by photos of the changes.

5. Equipment and Materials

Here’s what you’ll need for this experiment:

• Ten 1-pint jars to contain the flowers in the solutions
• A teaspoon measure
• A tablespoon measure
• An 8-oz. cup measure
• A pair of gloves
• A protective lab coat
• Distilled water
• 30 cut daisies (bellis perennis)
• A 1/2 cup of cider vinegar
• 12 cans of lemon-lime soda
• A 1/2 cup of sugar
• A 1/2 cup of Floralife
• A 1/2 cup of bleach
• A 1/2 cup of mouthwash

6. Data and Results

• In the tap water, mouthwash and aspirin solutions, the flowers stayed fresh for seven full days. Every other homemade solution that I used in my project caused the flowers to wilt faster.
• By 14 days, the freshest specimens were the ones in the sugar water. One of the flowers in the lemon-lime soda solution browned in the middle, as did all of the Floralife specimens.
• By 21 days, the specimens in the sugar water still had not browned, although they had significantly wilted. The specimens in the soda had wilted. The Florarlife specimens still had the brown color, but no wilting of the petals occurred.

7. Conclusion

My hypothesis that the lemon-lime soda would be most effective was incorrect. The specimens in the soda, the floral additive and sugar water solutions all remained at Stage 1 for seven days and fresh enough for display for a full 21 days.

Although Floralife research suggests that it is more effective than any alternative, my results showed that both lemon-lime soda and sugar water can help keep flowers fresh for the longest time. This suggests that florists and consumers could save by using sugar water instead of the more costly floral preservatives.

Science Fair Project Ideas

If you’re having trouble coming up with a topic that interests you, below are some science fair ideas for inspiration:

• Soaking pennies:   A long-time favorite of elementary school students, dirty pennies are collected in this experiment and soaked in a variety of acidic liquids such as lime juice, lemon juice, vinegar and salsa. This experiment is best for kindergartners or first graders.
• Creating circuits:   Students interested in technology can make simple circuits using everyday objects. This is also most suitable for kindergartners or first graders.
• Rainbow rubber eggs:   This fun experiment involves submerging eggs in vinegar, adding a few drops of food coloring and waiting a few days to see some cool results.
• Teleidoscopes:   These objects are like kaleidoscopes but do not have an end, allowing you to view anything you want. Looking through one of these is a fantastic experience. This project is most appropriate for kids between second and fourth grade.
• Density tower:   This experiment involves layering liquids of different densities on top of one another without having them mix together.
• Growing salt crystals:   Salt crystals can be grown overnight in the fridge.

General Tips

In addition to the necessary steps mentioned above, we’d also like to share some general tips to boost the quality of your presentation.

• Document everything:   Through the entire process, record all your activities, thoughts and findings in a journal. Some science fairs actually request that you include your notebook as part of your presentation. For professional scientists, keeping a detailed log of their experiments is critical.
• Write on separate pieces of paper:   It’s much easier to write all titles and other text on pieces of paper and then glue them to your board than to write directly on the board. You can also type them out with a computer and use attention-grabbing colors and fonts — just make sure that the font and font size are easy to read from a few feet away.
• Take photos:   One of the easiest ways to help explain the process is with pictures, so remember to keep a camera nearby and take photos throughout the experiment. Then, print out your best photos and include them on your board — breaking up the text with pictures will make your project easier to digest.   
• Make it colorful:   If your teachers allow it, consider buying a colorful board. Other ways to add color include printing out your titles and text on colored construction paper, scrapbook paper or cardstock. You can also make your project pop with stickers, cut-out letters or colored paper.
• Lay everything out before pasting:   Before grabbing the glue, first lay everything out that you want to include on your board. The hypothesis, procedures and materials should be on the right, the data and results should be in the center, and the conclusion, personal information and resources should go on the right. Depending on how much you include for each section, you may need to adjust this layout. Once you’re happy with the placement of everything, paste it to the board.
• Use glue dots or glue sticks:   These two types of glue are the easiest to use. You can use regular glue as well, but it sometimes causes wrinkles in the paper and can be difficult to change the position of things after the glue has dried.
• Limit parental involvement:   Parents should give their children the opportunity to do as much of the work as they can for their age. Although requirements vary from school to school, parents are usually allowed to type up the notes their children have made — just make sure that your child is telling you what to write. Your child should be able to explain every step of the process to the panel of judges. It’s a good idea to have your kids practice explaining what they did to you or other members of your family.

How Does the Judging Work?

Some science fair projects are assessed by a panel of judges and the winners may advance to regional or state levels. At elementary school science fairs, however, it’s less common to award placements. Instead, judges may point out the best parts of each project, award ribbons and leave commentary. At the elementary level, the objective is usually to just encourage students to continue participating in these events.

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Hypothesis For Kids

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Crafting a hypothesis isn’t just for scientists in white lab coats; even young budding researchers can join in the fun! When kids learn to frame their curious wonders as hypothesis statements, they pave the way for exciting discoveries. Our guide breaks down the world of hypothesis writing into kid-friendly chunks, complete with relatable thesis statement examples and easy-to-follow tips. Dive in to spark a love for inquiry and nurture young scientific minds!

What is an example of a Hypothesis for Kids?

Question: Do plants grow taller when they are watered with coffee instead of water?

Hypothesis: If I water a plant with coffee instead of water, then the plant will not grow as tall because coffee might have substances that aren’t good for plants.

This hypothesis is based on a simple observation or question a child might have, and it predicts a specific outcome (the plant not growing as tall) due to a specific condition (being watered with coffee). It’s presented in simple language suitable for kids.

100 Kids Hypothesis Statement Examples

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Children’s innate curiosity lays the foundation for numerous questions about the world around them. Framing these questions as good hypothesis statements can transform them into exciting learning experiments. Presented below are relatable and straightforward examples crafted especially for young minds, offering them a structured way to articulate their wonders and predictions.

• Sunlight & Plant Growth : If a plant gets more sunlight, then it will grow taller.
• Sugary Drinks & Tooth Decay : Drinking sugary drinks daily will lead to faster tooth decay.
• Chocolates & Energy : Eating chocolate will make me feel more energetic.
• Moon Phases & Sleep : I’ll sleep more during a full moon night.
• Homework & Weekend Moods : If I finish my homework on Friday, I’ll be happier over the weekend.
• Pets & Happiness : Owning a pet will make a child happier.
• Rain & Worms : Worms come out more after it rains.
• Shadows & Time of Day : Shadows are longer in the evening than at noon.
• Snow & School Holidays : More snow means there’s a better chance of school being canceled.
• Ice Cream & Brain Freeze : Eating ice cream too fast will give me a brain freeze.
• Video Games & Dreams : Playing video games before bed might make my dreams more vivid.
• Green Vegetables & Strength : Eating more green vegetables will make me stronger.
• Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I’ll get at riding my bike without training wheels.
• Stars & Wishes : If I wish on the first star I see at night, my wish might come true.
• Cartoons & Laughing : Watching my favorite cartoon will always make me laugh.
• Soda & Bone Health : Drinking soda every day will make my bones weaker.
• Beach Visits & Sunburn : If I don’t wear sunscreen at the beach, I’ll get sunburned.
• Loud Noises & Pet Behavior : My cat hides when she hears loud noises.
• Bedtime & Morning Energy : Going to bed early will make me feel more energetic in the morning.
• Healthy Snacks & Hunger : Eating a healthy snack will keep me full for longer. …
• Toys & Sharing : The more toys I have, the more I want to share with my friends.
• Homemade Cookies & Taste : Homemade cookies always taste better than store-bought ones.
• Books & Imagination : The more books I read, the more adventures I can imagine.
• Jumping & Height : The more I practice, the higher I can jump.
• Singing & Mood : Singing my favorite song always makes me happy.
• Snowmen & Temperature : If the temperature rises, my snowman will melt faster.
• Costumes & Play : Wearing a costume will make playtime more fun.
• Gardening & Patience : Waiting for my plants to grow teaches me patience.
• Night Lights & Sleep : Having a night light makes it easier for me to sleep.
• Handwriting & Practice : The more I practice, the better my handwriting will become.
• Painting & Creativity : Using more colors in my painting lets me express my creativity better.
• Puzzles & Problem Solving : The more puzzles I solve, the better I become at problem-solving.
• Dancing & Coordination : The more I dance, the more coordinated I will become.
• Stargazing & Constellations : If I stargaze every night, I’ll recognize more constellations.
• Bird Watching & Species Knowledge : The more I watch birds, the more species I can identify.
• Cooking & Skill : If I help in the kitchen often, I’ll become a better cook.
• Swimming & Confidence : The more I swim, the more confident I become in the water.
• Trees & Birds’ Nests : The taller the tree, the more likely it is to have birds’ nests.
• Roller Skating & Balance : If I roller skate every weekend, I’ll improve my balance.
• Drawing & Observation : The more I draw, the better I become at observing details.
• Sandcastles & Water : If I use wet sand, I can build a stronger sandcastle.
• Hiking & Endurance : The more I hike, the farther I can walk without getting tired.
• Camping & Outdoor Skills : If I go camping often, I’ll learn more about surviving outdoors.
• Magic Tricks & Practice : The more I practice a magic trick, the better I’ll get at performing it.
• Stickers & Collection : If I collect stickers, my album will become more colorful.
• Board Games & Strategy : The more board games I play, the better strategist I’ll become.
• Pets & Responsibility : The more I take care of my pet, the more responsible I become.
• Music & Concentration : Listening to calm music while studying will help me concentrate better.
• Photographs & Memories : The more photos I take, the more memories I can preserve.
• Rainbows & Rain : If it rains while the sun is out, I might see a rainbow.
• Museums & Knowledge : Every time I visit a museum, I learn something new.
• Fruits & Health : Eating more fruits will keep me healthier.
• Stories & Vocabulary : The more stories I listen to, the more new words I learn.
• Trees & Fresh Air : The more trees there are in a park, the fresher the air will be.
• Diary & Feelings : Writing in my diary helps me understand my feelings better.
• Planets & Telescopes : If I look through a telescope, I’ll see more planets clearly.
• Crafting & Creativity : The more crafts I make, the more creative I become.
• Snowflakes & Patterns : Every snowflake has a unique pattern.
• Jokes & Laughter : The funnier the joke, the louder I’ll laugh.
• Riddles & Thinking : Solving riddles makes me think harder.
• Nature Walks & Observations : The quieter I am on a nature walk, the more animals I’ll spot.
• Building Blocks & Structures : The more blocks I use, the taller my tower will be.
• Kites & Wind : If there’s more wind, my kite will fly higher.
• Popcorn & Movie Nights : Watching a movie with popcorn makes it more enjoyable.
• Stars & Wishes : If I see a shooting star, I should make a wish.
• Diets & Energy : Eating a balanced diet gives me more energy for playtime.
• Clay & Sculptures : The more I play with clay, the better my sculptures will be.
• Insects & Magnifying Glass : Using a magnifying glass will let me see more details of tiny insects.
• Aquarium Visits & Marine Knowledge : Every time I visit the aquarium, I discover a new marine creature.
• Yoga & Flexibility : If I practice yoga daily, I’ll become more flexible.
• Toothpaste & Bubbles : The more toothpaste I use, the more bubbles I’ll get while brushing.
• Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal every day helps me remember special moments.
• Piggy Banks & Savings : The more coins I save, the heavier my piggy bank will get.
• Baking & Measurements : If I measure ingredients accurately, my cake will turn out better.
• Coloring Books & Art Skills : The more I color, the better I get at staying inside the lines.
• Picnics & Outdoor Fun : Having a picnic makes a sunny day even more enjoyable.
• Recycling & Environment : The more I recycle, the cleaner my environment will be.
• Treasure Hunts & Discoveries : Every treasure hunt has a new discovery waiting.
• Milk & Bone Health : Drinking milk daily will make my bones stronger.
• Puppet Shows & Stories : The more puppet shows I watch, the more stories I learn.
• Field Trips & Learning : Every field trip to a new place teaches me something different.
• Chores & Responsibility : The more chores I do, the more responsible I feel.
• Fishing & Patience : Fishing teaches me to be patient while waiting for a catch.
• Fairy Tales & Imagination : Listening to fairy tales expands my imagination.
• Homemade Pizza & Toppings : The more toppings I add, the tastier my homemade pizza will be.
• Gardens & Butterflies : If I plant more flowers, I’ll see more butterflies in my garden.
• Raincoats & Puddles : Wearing a raincoat lets me jump in puddles without getting wet.
• Gymnastics & Balance : The more I practice gymnastics, the better my balance will be.
• Origami & Craft Skills : The more origami I fold, the better my craft skills become.
• Basketball & Shooting Skills : The more I practice, the better I get at shooting baskets.
• Fireflies & Night Beauty : Catching fireflies makes summer nights magical.
• Books & Knowledge : The more books I read, the smarter I become.
• Pillows & Forts : With more pillows, I can build a bigger fort.
• Lemonade & Summers : Drinking lemonade makes hot summer days refreshing.
• Bicycles & Balance : The more I practice, the better I get at riding my bike without training wheels.
• Pencils & Drawings : If I have colored pencils, my drawings will be more colorful.
• Ice Cream & Happiness : Eating ice cream always makes me happy.
• Beach Visits & Shell Collections : Every time I visit the beach, I find new shells for my collection.
• Jump Ropes & Fitness : The more I jump rope, the fitter I become.
• Tea Parties & Imagination : Hosting tea parties lets my imagination run wild.

Simple Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids

Simple hypothesis are straightforward predictions that can be tested easily. They help children understand the relationship between two variables. Here are some examples tailored just for kids.

• Plants & Sunlight : Plants placed near the window will grow taller than those in the dark.
• Chocolates & Happiness : Eating chocolates can make kids feel happier.
• Rain & Puddles : The more it rains, the bigger the puddles become.
• Homework & Learning : Doing homework helps kids understand lessons better.
• Toys & Sharing : Sharing toys with friends makes playtime more fun.
• Pets & Care : Taking care of a pet fish helps it live longer.
• Storytime & Sleep : Listening to a bedtime story helps kids sleep faster.
• Brushing & Cavity : Brushing teeth daily prevents cavities.
• Games & Skill : Playing a new game every day improves problem-solving skills.
• Baking & Patience : Waiting for cookies to bake teaches patience.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Psychology

Child psychology hypothesis delves into how kids think, behave, and process emotions. These hypotheses help understand the psychological aspects of children’s behaviors.

• Emotions & Colors : Kids might feel calm when surrounded by blue and energetic with red.
• Friendship & Self-esteem : Making friends can boost a child’s self-confidence.
• Learning Styles & Memory : Some kids remember better by seeing, while others by doing.
• Play & Development : Pretend play is crucial for cognitive development.
• Rewards & Motivation : Giving small rewards can motivate kids to finish tasks.
• Music & Mood : Listening to soft music can calm a child’s anxiety.
• Sibling Bonds & Sharing : Having siblings can influence a child’s willingness to share.
• Feedback & Performance : Positive feedback can improve a kid’s academic performance.
• Outdoor Play & Attention Span : Playing outside can help kids concentrate better in class.
• Dreams & Reality : Kids sometimes can’t differentiate between dreams and reality.

Hypothesis Examples in Kid Friendly Words

Phrasing hypothesis in simple words makes it relatable and easier for kids to grasp. Here are examples with kid-friendly language.

• Socks & Warmth : Wearing socks will keep my toes toasty.
• Jumping & Energy : The more I jump, the more energy I feel.
• Sandcastles & Water : A little water makes my sandcastle stand tall.
• Stickers & Smiles : Getting a sticker makes my day shine brighter.
• Rainbows & Rain : After the rain, I might see a rainbow.
• Slides & Speed : The taller the slide, the faster I go.
• Hugs & Love : Giving hugs makes me and my friends feel loved.
• Stars & Counting : The darker it is, the more stars I can count.
• Paint & Mess : The more paint I use, the messier it gets.
• Bubbles & Wind : If I blow my bubble wand, the wind will carry them high.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids in Research

Even in a research setting, research hypothesis should be age-appropriate for kids. These examples focus on concepts children might encounter in structured studies.

• Reading & Vocabulary : Kids who read daily might have a richer vocabulary.
• Games & Math Skills : Playing number games can improve math skills.
• Experiments & Curiosity : Conducting science experiments can make kids more curious.
• Doodles & Creativity : Drawing daily might enhance a child’s creativity.
• Learning Methods & Retention : Kids who learn with visuals might remember lessons better.
• Discussions & Understanding : Talking about a topic can deepen understanding.
• Observation & Knowledge : Observing nature can increase a kid’s knowledge about the environment.
• Puzzles & Cognitive Skills : Solving puzzles regularly might enhance logical thinking.
• Music & Rhythmic Abilities : Kids who practice music might develop better rhythm skills.
• Teamwork & Social Skills : Group projects can boost a child’s social skills.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids Science Fair

Science fairs are a chance for kids to delve into the world of experiments and observations. Here are hypotheses suitable for these events.

• Magnet & Metals : Certain metals will be attracted to a magnet.
• Plants & Colored Light : Plants might grow differently under blue and red lights.
• Eggs & Vinegar : An egg in vinegar might become bouncy.
• Solar Panels & Sunlight : Solar panels will generate more power on sunny days.
• Volcanoes & Eruptions : Mixing baking soda and vinegar will make a mini eruption.
• Mirrors & Reflection : Shiny surfaces can reflect light better than dull ones.
• Battery & Energy : Fresh batteries will make a toy run faster.
• Density & Floating : Objects with lower density will float in water.
• Shadows & Light Source : Moving the light source will change the shadow’s direction.
• Freezing & States : Water turns solid when kept in the freezer.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Science Experiments

Experiments let kids test out their predictions in real-time. Here are hypotheses crafted for various scientific tests.

• Salt & Boiling Point : Adding salt will make water boil at a higher temperature.
• Plants & Music : Playing music might affect a plant’s growth rate.
• Rust & Moisture : Metals kept in a moist environment will rust faster.
• Candles & Oxygen : A candle will burn out faster in an enclosed jar.
• Fruits & Browning : Lemon juice can prevent cut fruits from browning.
• Yeast & Sugar : Adding sugar will make yeast activate more vigorously.
• Density & Layers : Different liquids will form layers based on their density.
• Acids & Bases : Red cabbage juice will change color in acids and bases.
• Soil Types & Water : Sandy soil will drain water faster than clay.
• Thermometers & Temperatures : Thermometers will show higher readings in the sun.

Hypothesis Statement Examples for Kids At Home

These hypotheses are crafted for experiments and observations kids can easily make at home, using everyday items.

• Chores & Time : Setting a timer will make me finish my chores faster.
• Pets & Behavior : My cat sleeps more during the day than at night.
• Recycling & Environment : Recycling more can reduce the trash in my home.
• Cooking & Tastes : Adding spices will change the taste of my food.
• Family Time & Bonding : Playing board games strengthens our family bond.
• Cleaning & Organization : Organizing my toys daily will keep my room tidier.
• Watering & Plant Health : Watering my plant regularly will keep its leaves green.
• Decor & Mood : Changing the room decor can influence my mood.
• Journals & Memories : Writing in my journal daily will help me remember fun events.
• Photos & Growth : Taking monthly photos will show how much I’ve grown.

How do you write a hypothesis for kids? – A Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Start with Curiosity Begin with a question that your child is curious about. This could be something simple, like “Why is the sky blue?” or “Do plants need sunlight to grow?”

Step 2: Observe and Research Before formulating the hypothesis, encourage your child to observe the world around them. If possible, read or watch videos about the topic to gather information. The idea is to get a general understanding of the subject.

Step 3: Keep it Simple For kids, it’s essential to keep the hypothesis straightforward and concise. Use language that is easy to understand and relatable to their age.

Step 4: Make a Predictable Statement Help your child frame their hypothesis as an “If… then…” statement. For example, “If I water a plant every day, then it will grow taller.”

Step 5: Ensure Testability Ensure that the hypothesis can be tested using simple experiments or observations. It should be something they can prove or disprove through hands-on activities.

Step 6: Avoid Certainty Teach kids that a hypothesis is not a definitive statement of fact but rather a best guess based on what they know. It’s okay if the hypothesis turns out to be wrong; the learning process is more important.

Step 7: Review and Refine After forming the initial hypothesis, review it with your child. Discuss if it can be made simpler or clearer. Refinement aids in better understanding and testing.

Step 8: Test the Hypothesis This is the fun part! Plan an experiment or set of observations to test the hypothesis. Whether the hypothesis is proven correct or not, the experience provides a learning opportunity.

Tips for Writing Hypothesis for Kids

• Encourage Curiosity : Always encourage your child to ask questions about the world around them. It’s the first step to formulating a hypothesis.
• Use Familiar Language : Use words that the child understands and can relate to. Avoid jargon or technical terms.
• Make it Fun : Turn the process of forming a hypothesis into a game or a storytelling session. This will keep kids engaged.
• Use Visual Aids : Kids often respond well to visuals. Drawing or using props can help in understanding and formulating the hypothesis.
• Stay Open-minded : It’s essential to teach kids that it’s okay if their hypothesis is wrong. The process of discovery and learning is what’s crucial.
• Practice Regularly : The more often kids practice forming hypotheses, the better they get at it. Use everyday situations as opportunities.
• Link to Real-life Scenarios : Relate the hypothesis to real-life situations or personal experiences. For instance, if discussing plants, you can relate it to a plant you have at home.
• Collaborate : Sometimes, two heads are better than one. Encourage group activities where kids can discuss and come up with hypotheses together.
• Encourage Documentation : Keeping a journal or notebook where they document their hypotheses and results can be a great learning tool.
• Celebrate Efforts : Regardless of whether the hypothesis was correct, celebrate the effort and the learning journey. This reinforces the idea that the process is more important than the outcome.

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

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Learn STEM by Doing (and having fun)!

The Ultimate Science Fair Project Guide – From Start to Finish

When our daughter entered her first science fair, we kept seeing references to the Internet Public Library Science Fair Project Resource Guide .  However, the IPL2 permanently closed… taking the guide with it.  Bummer !  After now participating in over a half-dozen elementary school science fairs (including a first-place finish!), we created our own guide to help other students go from start to finish in their next science fair project.  If this is your first science fair, have fun!  If you’ve done it before, we hope this is your best one!  Let’s science!

*Images from Unsplash

How to Use the STEMium Science Fair Project Ultimate Guide?

If you are just starting off and this is your first science fair, here’s how to get started:

• Start with the STEMium Science Fair Project Roadmap . This is an infographic that “maps” out the process from start to finish and shows all the steps in a visual format.
• Getting Started – Why Do a Science Fair Project . Besides walking through some reasons to do a project, we also share links to examples of national science fair competitions, what’s involved and examples of winning science fair experiments .  *Note: this is where you’ll get excited!!
• The Scientific Method – What is It and What’s Involved . One of the great things about a science fair project is that it introduces students to an essential process/concept known as the scientific method.  This is simply the way in which we develop a hypothesis to test.
• Start the Process – Find an Idea . You now have a general idea of what to expect at the science fair, examples of winning ideas, and know about the scientific method.  You’re ready to get started on your own project.  How do you come up with an idea for a science fair project?  We have resources on how to use a Google tool , as well as some other strategies for finding an idea.
• Experiment and Build the Project . Time to roll up those sleeves and put on your lab coat.
• Other Resources for the Fair. Along the way, you will likely encounter challenges or get stuck.  Don’t give up – it’s all part of the scientific process.  Check out our STEMium Resources page for more links and resources from the web.  We also have additional experiments like the germiest spot in school , or the alka-seltzer rocket project that our own kids used.

Getting Started – Why Do a Science Fair Project

For many students, participating in the science fair might be a choice that was made FOR you.  In other words, something you must do as part of a class.  Maybe your parents are making you do it.  For others, maybe it sounded like a cool idea.  Something fun to try.  Whatever your motivation, there are a lot of great reasons to do a science fair project.

• Challenge yourself
• Learn more about science
• Explore cool technology
• Make something to help the world! (seriously!)
• Win prizes (and sometimes even money)
• Do something you can be proud of!

Many students will participate in a science fair at their school.  But there are also national competitions that include 1000s of participants.  There are also engineering fairs, maker events, and hackathons.  It’s an exciting time to be a scientist!!  The list below gives examples of national events.

• Regeneron Science Talent Search
• Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair
• Google Science Fair
• Conrad Challenge
• Microsoft Imagine Cup
• JSHS Program
• Exploravision

What’s the Scientific Method?

Before we jump into your project, it’s important to introduce a key concept:  The Scientific Method .  The scientific method is the framework scientists use to answer their questions and test their hypothesis.  The figure below illustrates the steps you’ll take to get to the end, but it starts with asking a question (you’ve already finished the first step!).

After we find a problem/idea to tackle, and dig into some background research, we create a guess on a potential solution.  This is known as our hypothesis.

Example of a Hypothesis

My brother can hold his breath underwater longer than I can (“our problem”) –> how can I hold my breath longer? (“our question”) –>  if I drink soda with caffeine before I hold my breath, I will be able to stay underwater longer (“our solution”).  Our hypothesis is that using caffeine before we go underwater will increase the time we hold our breath.  We’re not sure if that is a correct solution or not at this stage – just taking a guess.

Once we have a hypothesis, we design an experiment to TEST our hypothesis.  First, we will change variables/conditions one at a time while keeping everything else the same, so we can compare the outcomes.

Experimental Design Example

Using our underwater example, maybe we will test different drinks and count how long I can hold my breath.  Maybe we can also see if someone else can serve as a “control” – someone who holds their breath but does not drink caffeine.  For the underwater experiment, we can time in seconds how long I hold my breath before I have a drink and then time it again after I have my caffeine drink.  I can also time how long I stay underwater when I have a drink without caffeine.

Then, once we finish with our experiment, we analyze our data and develop a conclusion.

• How many seconds did I stay underwater in the different situations? 
• Which outcome is greater?  Did caffeine help me hold my breath longer? 

Finally, (and most important), we present our findings. Imagine putting together a poster board with a chart showing the number of seconds I stayed underwater in the different conditions.

Hopefully you have a better sense of the scientific method.  If you are completing a science fair project, sticking with these steps is super important.  Just in case there is any lingering confusion, here are some resources for learning more about the scientific method:

• Science Buddies – Steps of the Scientific Method
• Ducksters – Learn About the Scientific Method
• Biology4kids – Scientific Method
• National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences – Scientific Method

What Science Fair Project Should I Do?

And science is no different.

Just know that if you can get through the idea part, the rest of the science fair is relatively smooth sailing.  Remember to keep an open mind and a positive outlook .  Each year 100s of 1000s of kids, teenagers and college students come up with new projects and ideas to test.  You’ve got this!

What Makes a Great Science Fair Project?  Start with a Problem To Solve

As we discuss below, good science experiments attempt to answer a QUESTION.  Why is the sky blue?  Why does my dog bark at her reflection?  First, we will step through some ways to find TESTABLE QUESTIONS.  These questions that you create will be what you work on for your science fair project.  Pick something fun, something interesting and something that you are excited about.  Not sure what that looks like?  Step through some of the tips below for help.

Use the Google Science Fair Idea Generator

Are you surprised Google made a tool for science fair projects??  Our post called the low-stress way to find a science fair project gives a more in-depth overview about how to use it.  It’s a great first stop if you’re early in the brainstorming process.

Answer your own questions

• What type of music makes you run faster?
• Can boys hold their breath underwater longer than girls?
• How can I be sure the sandwich I bought is gluten free?
• If we plant 100 trees in our neighborhood, will the air be cleaner?

Still stuck? Get inspiration from other science fair projects

Check out the Getting Started section and look at some of the winning science project ideas, our STEMium experiments and our Resource page.  We’ve presented a ton of potential idea starters for you – take time to run through some of these, but our suggestion is to give yourself a deadline to pick an idea .  Going through the lists could take you longer than you think, and in many cases sometimes it’s just better to pick something and go for it!  The next section will take you through how to create testable questions for your project.

Starting Your Project: Find A Testable Question

The best experiments start with a question.  Taking that a step further, the questions you useyou’re your science fair project should be ones that are TESTABLE.  That means something you can measure.  Let’s look at an example.  Let’s say I’m super excited about baking.  OH YEA!!  I love baking.  Specifically, baking cakes.  In fact, I love baking cakes so much that I want to do a science project related to cakes.  We’ve got two questions on cakes that we created.  Which question below could be most useful for a science fair project:

1)  Can eating cake before a test improve your score?

2)  Why isn’t carrot cake more popular than chocolate cake?

The second question isn’t necessarily a bad question to pick.  You could survey people and perhaps tackle the question that way.  However, chances are you will get a lot of different answers and it will probably take a lot of surveys to start to pick up a trend.

Although, the first question might be a little easier.  How would you test this?   Maybe you pick one type of cake and one test that you give people.  If you can get five people to take the test after eating cake and five people take the test with no cake, you can compare the test results.  There might be other variables beyond cake that you could test (example: age, sex, education).  But you can see that the first question is probably a little easier to test.  The first question is also a little easier to come up with a hypothesis.

At this point, you’ve got an idea.  That was the hard part!  Now it’s time to think a little more about that idea and focus it into a scientific question that is testable and that you can create a hypothesis around .

What makes a question “testable”?

Testable questions are ones that can be measured and should focus on what you will change.  In our first cake question, we would be changing whether or not people eat cake before a test.  If we are giving them all the same test and in the same conditions, you could compare how they do on the test with and without cake.  As you are creating your testable question, think about what you WILL CHANGE (cake) and what you are expecting to be different (test scores).  Cause and effect.  Check out this reference on testable questions for more details.

Outline Your Science Project – What Steps Should I Take?

Do Background Research / Create Hypothesis

Science experiments typically start with a question (example: Which cleaning solution eliminates more germs?).  The questions might come up because of a problem.  For example, maybe you’re an engineer and you are trying to design a new line of cars that can drive at least 50 mph faster.  Your problem is that the car isn’t fast enough.  After looking at what other people have tried to do to get the car to go faster, and thinking about what you can change, you try to find a solution or an answer.  When we talk about the scientific method, the proposed answer is referred to as the HYPOTHESIS.

• Science Buddies
• National Geographic

The information you gather to answer these research questions can be used in your report or in your board.  This will go in the BACKGROUND section.  For resources that you find useful, make sure you note the web address where you found it, and save in a Google Doc for later.

Additional Research Tips

For your own science fair project, there will likely be rules that will already be set by the judges/teachers/school.  Make sure you get familiar with the rules FOR YOUR FAIR and what needs to be completed to participate .  Typically, you will have to do some research into your project, you’ll complete experiments, analyze data, make conclusions and then present the work in a written report and on a poster board.  Make a checklist of all these “to do” items.  Key things to address:

• Question being answered – this is your testable question
• Hypothesis – what did you come up with and why
• Experimental design – how are you going to test your hypothesis
• Conclusions – why did you reach these and what are some alternative explanations
• What would you do next? Answering a testable question usually leads to asking more questions and judges will be interested in how you think about next steps.

Need more help?  Check out these additional resources on how to tackle a science fair project:

• Developing a Science Fair Project – Wiley
• Successful Science Fair Projects – Washington University
• Science Fair Planning Guide – Chattahoochee Elementary

Experiment – Time to Test That Hypothesis

Way to go!  You’ve found a problem and identified a testable question.  You’ve done background research and even created a hypothesis.  It’s time to put it all together now and start designing your experiment.  Two experiments we have outlined in detail – germiest spot in school and alka-seltzer rockets – help show how to set up experiments to test variable changes.

The folks at ThoughtCo have a great overview on the different types of variables – independent, dependent and controls.  You need to identify which ones are relevant to your own experiment and then test to see how changes in the independent variable impacts the dependent variable .  Sounds hard?  Nope.  Let’s look at an example.  Let’s say our hypothesis is that cold weather will let you flip a coin with more heads than tails.  The independent variable is the temperature.  The dependent variable is the number of heads or tails that show up.  Our experiment could involve flipping a coin fifty times in different temperatures (outside, in a sauna, in room temperature) and seeing how many heads/tails we get.

One other important point – write down all the steps you take and the materials you use!!  This will be in your final report and project board.  Example – for our coin flipping experiment, we will have a coin (or more than one), a thermometer to keep track of the temperature in our environment.  Take pictures of the flipping too!

Analyze Results – Make Conclusions

Analyzing means adding up our results and putting them into pretty pictures.  Use charts and graphs whenever you can.  In our last coin flipping example, you’d want to include bar charts of the number of heads and tails at different temperatures.  If you’re doing some other type of experiment, take pictures during the different steps to document everything.

This is the fun part….  Now we get to see if we answered our question!  Did the weather affect the coin flipping?  Did eating cake help us do better on our test??  So exciting!  Look through what the data tells you and try to answer your question.  Your hypothesis may / may not be correct.  It’s not important either way – the most important part is what you learned and the process.  Check out these references for more help:

• How to make a chart or graph in Google Sheets
• How to make a chart in Excel

Presentation Time – Set Up Your Board, Practice Your Talk

Personally, the presentation is my favorite part!  First, you get to show off all your hard work and look back at everything you did!  Additionally, science fair rules should outline the specific sections that need to be in the report, and in the poster board – so, be like Emmett from Lego Movie and read the instructions.  Here’s a loose overview of what you should include:

• Title – what is it called.
• Introduction / background – here’s why you’re doing it and helping the judges learn a bit about your project.
• Materials/Methods – what you used and the steps in your experiment. This is so someone else could repeat your experiment.
• Results – what was the outcome? How many heads/tails?  Include pictures and graphs.
• Conclusions – was your hypothesis correct? What else would you like to investigate now?  What went right and what went wrong?
• References – if you did research, where did you get your information from? What are your sources?

The written report will be very similar to the final presentation board.  The board that you’ll prepare is usually a three-panel board set up like the picture shown below.

To prepare for the presentation, you and your partner should be able to talk about the following:

• why you did the experiment
• the hypothesis that was tested
• the data results
• the conclusions.

It’s totally OK to not know an answer.  Just remember this is the fun part!

And that’s it!  YOU DID IT!! 

Science fair projects have been great opportunities for our kids to not only learn more about science, but to also be challenged and push themselves.  Independent projects like these are usually a great learning opportunity.  Has your child completed a science fair project that they are proud of?  Include a pic in the comments – we love to share science!!  Please also check out our STEMium Resources page for more science fair project tips and tricks .

STEMomma is a mother & former scientist/educator. She loves to find creative, fun ways to help engage kids in the STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and math).  When she’s not busy in meetings or carpooling kids, she loves spending time with the family and dreaming up new experiments  or games they can try in the backyard.

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Science Fair Hypothesis Development

This article outlines some ideas, techniques, formatting, and processes involved in designing, developing, and completing an elementary school science fair project.  The following is intended for use by parents and teachers of elementary school children. During this guided experience, children will learn various science-thinking skills, including how to develop a testable hypothesis and how to discern patterns, while also giving examples of interesting science fair projects.  Educational prompts and questions encourage the learner and the teacher to apply the knowledge and skills learned to future occasions.

“Guess Carefully” ~ Developing a Hypothesis:

Once a child/student has chosen a topic for his/her science fair project and developed a good question, he/she needs to develop an educated “guess” as to what the answer to the question will be.  A hypothesis is a proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation.  Guessing carefully, involves researching the topic, so he/she has a basis for his/her answer. Have your child or students practice developing a hypothesis from the questions listed below.  (Since the child (in this instance) is unable to do research before creating a hypothesis in these cases, it does not matter if the hypothesis is based in research. The purpose of this exercise is to practice considering, then framing an effective “guess” as to the outcome of the proposed science fair question.)

• Question: “Will frozen seeds sprout?”      [As an example, the hypothesis might be: Bean seeds that have been frozen for one month will sprout once planted.
• Question:   “Do all people have the same body temperature?”       Hypothesis:
• Question:   “Who has the faster heart rate: children or adults?”       Hypothesis:
• Question:   “Which brand of paper towel absorbs the most water?”       Hypothesis:

Through research, the proposed “careful guess” becomes more of a prediction.  An accurate prediction can be based on the recognition of a pattern.  

Try it Out: Looking for Patterns

• Release a marble from the top of an incline.  Use a piece of masking tape to mark how far the marble rolls, then measure the distance that the marble traveled.  Repeat this activity, but increase the slope (or angle) of the incline. After multiple trials at three ascending inclines, ask your child or students to predict the next approximate distance that the marble will roll from an even greater incline than previously tried.  Have your child or students describe the pattern he/she/they noticed as to the distance that the marble rolled from the ramp compared to the incline of the ramp. Ask: What does this conclusion make you want to try next?
• Use a measuring cup to fill six identical drinking glasses with different amounts of colored water (2 ounces, 4 ounces, 6 ounces, 8 ounces, 10 ounces, 12 ounces).  Using a metal spoon, carefully strike the first four glasses in ascending order and listen to the difference in sound. Ask your child or students to predict what the sounds caused by striking the next two glasses will be: higher pitch or lower pitch than the previous sounds?  Have your child or student describe the pattern he/she/they noticed. Ask: What does this conclusion make you want to try next?

Take it Further:

If your child or students is/are interested in the above ideas or related activities, challenge him/her/them to develop one of the ideas into a science fair project.  Use the following format and procedures:

• Choose a topic.
• Develop an effective associated question.
• Propose a hypothesis.
• Then test the hypothesis by designing and conducting a supporting experiment.
• Perform multiple trials of the experiment.  
• Collect and organize the data from the experiment.
• Then come to a conclusion to determine whether the outcome supports the original hypothesis.  

Whether the outcome supports the original hypothesis is not the objective of the science fair project.  The purposes of conducting a science project is (a) to learn the processes of and procedures associated with science, (b) to strengthen one’s science-thinking skills, and (3) to develop an understanding of why and how things work the way that they do.

In addition, participating in science fairs give children the opportunity (a) to use science-based tools, (b) to increase one’s mental skills (such as observing, examining, analyzing, comparing, contrasting, classifying, grouping, and sorting), and (c) to communicate their investigations and explanations to others (verbally, or in written, pictorial and/or graphic form).

If you are a teacher, use the following lesson plan based on rolling objects down ramps, to introduce your students to the format of creating a science fair project or to teach about some of the elementary science associated with rolling objects, including Newton’s Laws of Motion.

Elementary Science Fair Project ~ Rolling Objects down Ramps

• Introduce the Questions.  Have the students keep in mind which of these questions they would like to develop into a science fair project.
• How does the weight (mass) of an object affect how far that object rolls?
• How does the slope/incline of a ramp affect how far a marble rolls?
• How does the surface across which an object rolls affect the distance that it rolls?
• Do Background Research.  The following activities and discussion will result in different forms of research of the subject matter, science concepts, and physical objects to be used for the science fair projects.  

Show the students two marbles, one made of glass and one made of steel.  Ask them which marble has more mass. Mass is the amount of matter that makes up an object.  Mass, in general, is the weight of an object and can be associated with the size of the object.  For example, if two marbles were the same size as each other, a marble made of steel would have a greater mass than a marble made of glass.  

Ask: If you held two marbles, one in each hand, and dropped them from the same height at the same time, which marble would hit the ground first?  Then try this activity. Both marbles regardless of their mass, should hit the ground at the same time. Explain: Both marbles fell because of gravity.  Gravity is a pulling force that exists between two objects (such as the Earth and the marbles). Gravity pulls at all objects at the same rate.

Newton’s First Law of Motion states that an object at rest will stay at rest until a force (such as a push or pull) acts upon it.  Set a marble on a table or on the floor and ask the students what different forces could move the marble. (Possible answers: someone could pick it up or kick it; the wind could blow it; someone could move the table; etc.). Gravity is holding the marble in place, since gravity is pulling the marble toward the Earth.

Newton’s First Law of Motion also states that an object in motion will stay in motion, traveling in a straight line, until a force (such as a push or pull) acts upon it.  Roll the marble across a table or on the floor and ask the students what different forces could slow the marble, stop the marble, or cause it to change direction so it is not traveling in a straight line. (Possible answers: someone could push it to have it change directions; it could fall off of the table; bumping into a wall could stop it; etc.).

Friction could also slow the rolling marble.  Friction is the resistance that one surface or object meets when moving across or rubbing against another.  For example, a person wearing tennis shoes while walking on asphalt has a high amount of friction between their shoes and the asphalt, which allows controlled movement of the person walking.  Whereas, a person wearing tennis shoes while walking on ice has very little friction between their shoes and the ice, which can cause the person to slip.  Take a short walk around the school while looking at a variety of surfaces across which a marble could roll. Have a discussion about which surface the students think would impose a greater amount of friction on the marble: a plastic tabletop, a wooden tabletop, a cement sidewalk, an asphalt playground, a rug, a linoleum floor, etc.

Newton’s Second Law of Motion states that the force of an object depends upon its mass (how much the object weighs in relation to how big it is) and acceleration (how quickly its speed changes).   In other words, the heavier the object is, the more force is required to move it. Also, the more force given to an object, the faster it will go. And everything else being equal, the faster an object is moving, the longer it takes to slow it down.  Therefore, if you roll a steel marble and a glass marble each down an identical ramp, the heavier marble may take more time to start moving, but given enough travel distance, will accelerate faster. The faster moving object will take longer to slow down. [This is an example of one of the experiments/science fair projects that can be performed.]

• Construct a Hypothesis.  Based on the above discussion and research, have the students select their science fair “question” (problem statement), such as “How does the weight (mass) of an object affect how far that object rolls?”  Then have them propose a testable, measurable hypothesis (or answer to this question), such as “Traveling at the same speed, a steel marble will travel a further distance from the end of the ramp than a glass marble will.”

Other problem statements and hypotheses can be used and tested, but remember that there should only be one variable, such as different types of marbles, or different ramp slopes, or different surfaces, etc.  Remind the students that the purpose of the experiment/science fair project they will perform is not to be correct, but to learn information by working like a scientist.

• Test Your Hypothesis by Doing an Experiment
• Design, then Follow Your Procedure
• Gather Your Materials

Depending on the experiment, the students may need (a) glass and/or steel marbles, tubes, such as cardboard tubes from wrapping paper or 3-foot long wooden boards, for ramps, (b) yardsticks or measuring tapes to perform measurements of the distance traveled, (c) different surfaces, such as a rug and a linoleum floor, (d) tape, (e) paper, and (f) pencils.

Guidelines to setting up the ramps:

• Have the students use the ruler to mark their papers showing one inch increments that they can tape to the wall.  In this way, students can set the top of their ramp at a 2-inch height, a 4-inch height, a 6-inch height, an 8-inch height, and a 10-inch height (as an example).
• Depending on their experiment, the students can predict if the marble(s) will roll farther and farther with each increase in height of the ramp.  If they are performing an experiment on increasing ramp heights (increasing slopes), they should only use one type of marble at a time, as the variable in this experiment would be the slope of the ramp. Capture all data to organize on a chart.
• Following an experiment using a series of trials with a glass marble rolling down increasing heights of slopes, they can perform the same experiment with the steel marble to see if they get similar results.
• Another series of experiments could be keeping the ramp at the optimal height (this can be discovered in the above mentioned experiment) and test out the difference between the glass and the steel marble ….. or using only one type of marble and work across different floor surfaces, etc.
• Remind the students to collect and organize their measurements that they gather so they will be able to analyze the information once the experiment is completed.  
• Analyze Your Data and Draw a Conclusion.  After the activity, discuss the results with the students.  For example, they should discover that with increasing ramp slopes, there is a point at which the marbles travel less far.  This is due to the increased amount of bounce ….bounce causes the marble to lose energy, therefore it cannot travel as far.
• Communicate Your Results.  After discussing the results, have the students record their results in a project report similar to the chart below.  You can also collect the data from other test groups in other classrooms to increase the size of your trials/sample size.

Before you go, check out this article that discusses science fair project judging .

Emily Anderson is a mother of three children, all under the age of 10. Located in the Pacific Northwest of the US, Emily is a mom and part-time blogger, jumping in front of the computer when the kids are sleeping. She started this blog in April of 2019 and is proud that the blog is now paying for itself. If you want to know about her journey as a blogger, check out out her personal digital journal or her post about failing her way to blogging success .