Involving sports in a science project can help a reluctant student become more interested.
It can be difficult to get junior high students excited about science, but most love sports. Combining the two can create a science project that will interest your student and make him want to participate. Sports projects can range from simple equations of velocity in skateboarding to the physics involved in throwing a baseball.
Bouncing Balls
In this project, a student can take several bouncing balls -- basketballs, volleyballs, dodge balls and tennis balls -- and experiment with different levels of air pressure. Calculate how much air pressure it takes for each ball to bounce. The student can also calculate the level of air pressure needed for optimal performance while playing the sport associated with each ball. As a visual presentation, a student can bring each type of ball and demonstrate for the judges.
Creating Drag
Strength and speed aren't the only factors that create a fast swimmer; physics matters, too. In this experiment, a student can time a 25-meter swim in a bathing suit and in street clothes and compare the two to see how drag makes a difference. Consider other factors, such as whether or not leg and facial hair creates drag or what types of bathing suits produce the least drag.
Olympian Speed
Most sports in the Olympics take speed. Compare sports such as running, pole vaulting, rowing, gymnastics, swimming, ice skating, bobsledding and speed skating to see which sports require the most speed. Calculate how much speed it takes to set an Olympic record in each sport and record your findings. Determine what causes an athlete in a particular sport to go faster. As a visual presentation, test volunteers to see how close they come to records in sports such as running.
Geometry Baskets
This project is one a basketball lover will enjoy, because it involves studying different angles on a basketball court and determining get the best shot. Try several angles from which to shoot around the court and determine which spot yields the most and least baskets. Try different shooting techniques or tricks. Record your findings for which methods work best. If your science fair takes place in a gym, ask permission to allow participants to try your tricks and angles in shooting.
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