An award-winning science fair project possesses the following qualities: It clearly presents the proper use of the scientific method; it exhibits creativity; it shows clarity; it reveals mastery of the topic; it possesses great display quality; and it reveals good technical skills.
If you want your science project to win the big event, you need to put on some hard work and apply the right techniques. Your project should possess qualities that judges and spectators are looking for. Here are the most important features that your project should have to make it award-winning:
It clearly presents the proper use of the scientific method
Following the steps of the scientific method is the foremost quality that judges look for in a science project. See to it that you have clearly identified your question or your problem. Make sure that you have done a thorough research and you have conducted the experiments in the right manner, considering the different variables involved. The data you present must also be accurate and clearly evident in your written report. Finally, your conclusion must be able to answer your problem and is supported by the data you presented.
It exhibits creativity
The backbone of award-winning science fair projects is creativity. Judges will see how creative, resourceful, and practical you are in gathering your data as well as in your experimentation, most especially with the equipment used. It is also very important for your project to be original and unique from among others.
It shows clarity
A great science project must also possess clarity in every aspect, starting from the statement of the problem down to the display. You must be able to clearly state and organize your problem, hypothesis, data, and solution in a logical manner. Your display must also be able to clearly convey its message to the spectators, even to those who are not acquainted with the subject matter of your project.
It reveals mastery of the topic
Every science project involves interview from the judges and some questions from the spectators. It is very important that you master every detail of your project. Be ready for certain questions that involve changing some variables in your experiment, so make it a point that you truly comprehend the nature of your project. You must also be able to thoroughly understand and explain your display and how it plays an important role in conveying your message to the spectators.
It possesses great display quality
Your display need not be too showy to make it to the top spot. All you need to do is to make it neat and organized, as well as uniquely creative and appealing to your audience. Make sure all the relevant details are emphasized in your display. All the headings, labels, tables, pictures, and charts in your display and your written report must be simple and clear, but not boring, to make it pleasing to the eyes.
It reveals good technical skills
Award-winning science projects also possess great technical skills. Your display must be strong and sturdy. Reports must be well-written with careful consideration to spelling, grammar, and sentence construction. Ideas must be presented straight to the point without much flowery words. It is also important that you do majority of the project by yourself or your group. If assistance was given, it must be properly acknowledged.
Getting your project to win the science fair is not an easy task. You need the right motivation by choosing a topic that interests you most and by focusing on your goal, which is to win. As long as you have the right attitude and the right techniques, you are sure to make it to the top spot.