Science Fair
Purpose of the Activity
Students choose a scientific problem to investigate independently or with a partner. They can take one of the following two paths:
- Design and Build a Solution:
- Students can create a prototype or tool (model or algorithm) to address their chosen problem. This involves brainstorming, designing a solution, constructing, and refining their solution.
- Conduct an Experiment:
- Alternatively, students can perform an experiment to answer their research question. This includes formulating a hypothesis, designing an experiment, collecting data, and analyzing results.
Regardless of the path chosen, students will conduct research, develop scientific skills, write a research paper and, after completing all steps, present their project at the Regional Science Fair in early March.
Popular investigation topics include Physics, Computer Science, Zoology, Astronomy, Environmental Science and Consumer Science.
Tryout Procedures
There are no tryouts. All 7th- and 8th-grade students are invited to participate and must attend meetings twice per month. Upon completion of all steps for their chosen project, students will present their projects at the Regional Science Fair.
Make sure you have a permission to participate form on file with the club sponsor; otherwise, you will not be able to participate in the program.
Number of Participants
The fair is open to all seventh- and eighth-grade students.
Grade Level/s of Participants
Open to seventh- and eighth-graders.
Meeting Schedule and Location
- Season: October through April
- An introductory mandatory meeting will be held Tuesday, October 7, after school in room 109A
- Most work will be completed independently under the supervision of the Science Fair sponsors
Competition Schedule
The Regional Science Fair is held locally on a Saturday in March. If projects are deemed outstanding, students may be invited to present their work at the Illinois Junior Academy of Sciences State Fair in late April.
Student Attendance Guidelines
Students are expected to meet with their sponsor twice per month. If the student is unable to attend a meeting, sponsors should be notified and an alternate meeting date should be scheduled within the same week.
Specific Rules or Guidelines
Guidelines and due dates will be provided at the introductory meeting in October. Students are expected to meet required deadlines in completing each part of their science fair projects. Those who do not meet deadlines will be unable to participate in the IJAS Regional Fair.
Contact Us
Student Fees
To participate in the program, families must pay a participation fee using the RevTrak Web Store.