Deciding on the type of science project to create for a school project or science fair can be a very stressful event in a child's life. As parents, guiding children into school science projects that are fun to do as well as educational can encourage a child's love for science. The best method of choosing a school project is to review the various scientific disciplines with your child, such as astronomy, biology, botany, geology, and chemistry, and then find out what area interests them the most.
Astronomy
Astronomy is the study of outer space, and the people who study astronomy are called astronomers. An example of a science project in astronomy would be a study of how the sun revolves around the earth. The project could be called "What Causes Night and Day?" The study of gravity, how stars work, or anything dealing with the planets in our galaxy are other excellent projects to consider.
Biology
Biology is the study of living things. People who study living things are called biologists. Zoology, which is the study of animals, is a branch of biology. Human anatomy, genetics, and wild life studies all make excellent science projects. A very simple biology project is to set up a bird feeder and research the animals that come to feed from it.
Botany
A botanist is a person who studies of plant life. Some excellent projects ideas in botany can include the identification and the growth of plants. A simple science project is to take a stalk of celery, a teaspoon of red food dye, and a glass of water to show how plants take water from their roots to their leaves.
Geology
Geologist study the earth. Popular science projects in geology include rock identification, studying earthquakes, and building volcanoes. Here is an example of a quick geology science project that shows how acid rain effects erosion. Kids will need to mix a glass of water, a piece of chalk and ½ cup white vinegar together. Chalk is made from limestone rock, so this project offers a very graphic example of how acidic water breaks down rock over time.
Chemistry
The most basic definition of chemistry is the study of materials. Chemists study different materials to see how they react to other materials, or they combine materials to created new items. Some examples of what chemists can create are ice cream flavors, medicines, and plastics. An easy project for kids is to use lemon juice to make a penny shiny again. Drop the penny into a small glass of lemon juice for 5 minutes and see what happens.
Age Appropriate
Once a child chooses the discipline focus of their project, then it is just a matter of searching for the most age-appropriate science project. Parent will find that many museums, internet sites, books, and stores offer ideas, science kits, and supplies for just about any science project idea.
Tags: science project, excellent projects, glass water, lemon juice, living things, materials they
