Middle school science fair projects. Most students in middle school are required to submit a science project to the science fair. For kids who have been used to the more lenient standards of elementary school, the more complicated guidelines can be a shock. Here’s a guide to helping middle schoolers to have success as they head to the fair.

1. Do the project. This should go without saying, but I get emails all the time asking for something that is already completed. Teachers can tell if you copy and paste information directly from the internet or from a book.

2. Choose the right kind of project. Most of the time, an investigatory project is required. That’s a fancy way of saying that you have to do an experiment that follows the scientific method. Demonstrations, collections, and models are usually not accepted.

3. Be interested in your work. If you like what you’re doing, you’ll learn more. And if you’re learning, your project will show that you are interested.

4. Make sure you include all required elements. Experiment logs, charts, graphs, supply lists and even photographs are often part of the judging at the fair. Make sure that you follow the directions exactly.

5. Have an attractive display. Use bright colors, attractive fonts, interesting props, and clear pictures.  Be neat. Come up with a catchy title so you’ll stand out from the crowd.

Sixth grade, seventh grade, and eight grade – three great chances for you to learn more about science and more about making a presentation. Enjoy, learn, and succeed with your middle school science fair project.