science fair ideas hypothesis

What is a hypothesis?

No.  A hypothesis is sometimes described as an educated guess.  That's not the same thing as a guess and not really a good description of a hypothesis either.  Let's try working through an example.

If you put an ice cube on a plate and place it on the table, what will happen?  A very young child might guess that it will still be there in a couple of hours.  Most people would agree with the hypothesis that:

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes.

You could put sit and watch the ice cube melt and think you've proved a hypothesis.  But you will have missed some important steps.

For a good science fair project you need to do quite a bit of research before any experimenting.  Start by finding some information about how and why water melts.  You could read a book, do a bit of Google searching, or even ask an expert.  For our example, you could learn about how temperature and air pressure can change the state of water.  Don't forget that elevation above sea level changes air pressure too.

Now, using all your research, try to restate that hypothesis.

An ice cube will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

But wait a minute.  What is the ice made from?  What if the ice cube was made from salt water, or you sprinkled salt on a regular ice cube?  Time for some more research.  Would adding salt make a difference?  Turns out it does.  Would other chemicals change the melting time?

Using this new information, let's try that hypothesis again.

An ice cube made with tap water will melt in less than 30 minutes in a room at sea level with a temperature of 20C or 68F.

Does that seem like an educated guess?  No, it sounds like you are stating the obvious.

At this point, it is obvious only because of your research.  You haven't actually done the experiment.  Now it's time to run the experiment to support the hypothesis.

A hypothesis isn't an educated guess.  It is a tentative explanation for an observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.

Once you do the experiment and find out if it supports the hypothesis, it becomes part of scientific theory.

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120+ Exciting 5th Grade Science Project Ideas With Hypothesis In 2023

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey into the world of 5th-grade science projects with hypotheses? Science projects are not just about fun experiments; they also involve forming hypotheses to make educated guesses about outcomes. But what makes a good hypothesis for a science project? In this blog, we’ll explore the key components of a successful hypothesis.

Selecting the right 5th-grade science project can be a challenge, and we’ll share some valuable tips to help you choose the perfect one. We’ll dive into the importance of combining hypothesis with your science project and why it’s a vital aspect of learning and discovery.

But that’s not all! We’ve also compiled an extensive list of 120+ exciting 5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis, providing you with a wealth of inspiration for your next scientific adventure. Stay tuned with us to unleash the world of  5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis  and nurture your curiosity in the process.

What Is A Good Hypothesis For A Science Project?

Table of Contents

A good hypothesis for a science project is like a smart guess. It helps scientists figure out what they think will happen in their experiment. To make a good hypothesis, you need to use words like  if  and  then.  For example,  If I water the plant every day, then it will grow taller.  This shows what you’re going to do and what you expect to see.

In addition, a strong hypothesis also needs to be testable. That means you can experiment to see if it’s true or not. It’s like a detective’s clue that leads you to find the answer. Scientists use good hypotheses to guide their experiments and learn new things about the world. So, making a good hypothesis is an important part of any science project.

Things To Remember While Selecting A 5th Grade Science Project Ideas With Hypothesis

Here are some things to remember while selecting a 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis:

1. Personal Interest

Choose a 5th-grade science project that interests you. Picking a topic you’re curious about makes the project more enjoyable. Whether it’s plants, animals, or space, your passion can make learning fun.

2. Age-Appropriate

Make sure the project is right for your grade level. A 5th-grade project shouldn’t be too simple or too complex. It should match your skills and what you’ve learned in school.

3. Available Resources

Check if you have access to the materials you need. Some projects might need special tools or expensive stuff. It’s essential to choose something you can do with the materials you have.

4. Safety First

Keep safety in mind. Select a project that’s safe to do at home or in school. Make sure you won’t be using anything harmful or dangerous.

5. Clear Instructions

Look for a project with clear instructions. It’s easier when you know what to do step by step. Projects with easy-to-follow directions help you succeed and learn better.

Developing A Hypothesis For Your Science Project

Developing a hypothesis for your science project is a crucial step. It’s like making an educated guess about what you think will happen during your experiment. Here are seven key points to consider while creating a hypothesis:

• Identify the Variables: Determine the two things you’re testing in your experiment, the  if  and  then  parts. For example, if you’re testing plant growth, the variables could be  amount of sunlight  and  plant height. 
• Be Specific: Make sure your hypothesis is clear and precise. Avoid vague or broad statements. The more specific, the better.
• Predict the Outcome: Your hypothesis should state what you expect to happen. Will one variable cause a change in the other? State your prediction clearly.
• Use  If-Then  Statements : Craft your hypothesis using  if-then  statements to show the relationship between the variables. For instance,  If the amount of sunlight increases, then the plant height will also increase. 
• Keep It Testable: Ensure that your hypothesis is something you can test through an experiment. It should lead to concrete results that you can measure.
• Avoid Bias: Make sure your hypothesis doesn’t show your personal beliefs. It should be based on research and evidence, not what you want to happen.
• Revisit and Revise : As you conduct your experiment, be ready to adjust your hypothesis if the results don’t match your initial prediction. Science is all about learning and adapting.

Here we have a list of 120+ exciting 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis in 2023: 

• Balloon Rocket

Hypothesis –   If I inflate a balloon and release it, then it will move forward because of the escaping air. 

• Moldy Bread

Hypothesis –  I think bread left in different conditions will develop mold at varying rates. 

• Growing Plants 

Hypothesis –   If I give plants different amounts of water, then they will grow differently. 

• Magnet Magic

Hypothesis –  I predict that magnets will attract some objects but not others. 

• Lemon Battery

Hypothesis –  I believe I can create a battery using a lemon because it is acidic. 

• Volcano Eruption

Hypothesis –   I expect that a mixture of vinegar and baking soda will create a volcanic eruption. 

• Density of Liquids

Hypothesis –   I think different liquids have different densities, and some will float on top of others. 

• Solar Still

Hypothesis –   I predict that a solar still can collect clean water from dirty water through evaporation. 

• Bouncing Balls

Hypothesis –   I believe that balls made from different materials will bounce to different heights. 

• Static Electricity

Hypothesis –   I think rubbing a balloon on my hair will create static electricity that attracts objects. 

• Fruit Battery

Hypothesis –  I expect that fruits like oranges and lemons can power a small light bulb. 

• Color-Changing Milk

Hypothesis –  I predict that adding soap to milk with food coloring will make colorful patterns. 

• Tornado in a Bottle

 Hypothesis –   I think that by swirling water and dish soap in a bottle, I can create a tornado-like vortex. 

• Water Filtration

Hypothesis –   I believe that by using sand and gravel, I can filter impurities from water. 

• Rust Formation

Hypothesis –  I predict that metal objects left in water will rust over time. 

• Candy Dissolving

Hypothesis –  I think that different candies will dissolve at different rates in water. 

• Seed Germination

Hypothesis –  If I plant seeds in various conditions, then they will sprout at different rates. 

Hypothesis –  I expect that by using a simple rain gauge, I can measure rainfall accurately. 

• Sound Vibrations

Hypothesis –   I believe that different objects will produce different sounds when struck. 

• Egg Drop Challenge

Hypothesis –   I predict that if I design a protective container, the egg will survive a fall. 

• Paper Airplanes

Hypothesis –   I think that altering the shape of paper airplanes will affect their flight distance. 

• Food Preservation

 Hypothesis –   I expect that different methods of food preservation will keep food fresh longer. 

• Homemade Slime

Hypothesis –  I believe that mixing glue and borax will create a slimy substance. 

Hypothesis –   I predict that combining oil and water with Alka-Seltzer will create a mesmerizing lava lamp effect. 

• Air Pressure

Hypothesis –   I think air pressure can be measured with a simple barometer. 

• Crystal Growth

Hypothesis –  I expect that I can grow crystals by dissolving substances in water. 

• Ocean Currents

Hypothesis –   I predict that hot water and cold water will create ocean currents in a container. 

• Rainbow in a Jar

Hypothesis –   I believe I can create a rainbow by layering different liquids with different densities. 

• Static Electricity Levitation

Hypothesis –  I think that static electricity can make a small object levitate. 

• Melting Ice

Hypothesis –   I predict that adding salt to ice will cause it to melt faster. 

• Potato Battery

Hypothesis –   I expect that a potato can conduct electricity and power a small device. 

• Pendulum Swing

Hypothesis –   I believe that the length of a pendulum will affect its swing time. 

• Soda Geyser

Hypothesis –   I predict that dropping Mentos candies into soda will create a geyser. 

• Chromatography

Hypothesis –  I think I can separate the colors in markers using chromatography. 

• Heat Transfer

Hypothesis –  I expect that different materials will transfer heat at varying rates. 

• Rainfall and Runoff

Hypothesis –   I predict that if I simulate rainfall on different surfaces, some will produce more runoff. 

• Fizzy Lemonade

Hypothesis –   I believe that combining lemon juice and baking soda will make lemonade fizzier. 

• Rock Identification

Hypothesis –  I think I can identify different rocks by their characteristics. 

Hypothesis –  I predict that by cutting a straw, I can make it produce musical sounds like an oboe. 

• Taste Perception

Hypothesis –   I expect that people’s taste perception may change when their sense of smell is altered. 

• Color-Changing Flowers

Hypothesis –   I believe that adding food coloring to water will change the color of white flowers. 

• Solar Cooker

Hypothesis –   I predict that a solar cooker can cook food using only the sun’s energy. 

• Tornado Formation

Hypothesis –  I think that rotating two bottles will create a tornado effect. 

• Vinegar and Baking Soda Rocket

Hypothesis –  I expect that mixing vinegar and baking soda in a bottle will launch it into the air. 

• Popsicle Stick Bridge

Hypothesis –  I predict that I can build a strong bridge using only popsicle sticks and glue. 

• Rainfall Patterns

Hypothesis –  I believe that rainfall patterns can be different in various parts of the world. 

• Chemical Reactions

Hypothesis –  I think mixing certain chemicals will result in a visible reaction. 

• Fruit Decomposition

Hypothesis –   I predict that different fruits will decompose at different rates. 

• Balancing Act

Hypothesis –  I expect that I can balance various objects on a pivot point. 

• Photosynthesis Simulation

Hypothesis –   I believe that using a simple setup, I can show how plants perform photosynthesis. 

• Sinking and Floating

Hypothesis –  I think that objects with different densities will either sink or float in water. 

• Tooth Decay

Hypothesis –  I predict that different liquids will affect teeth differently, simulating tooth decay. 

• Rainwater Collection

Hypothesis –   I expect that by using a funnel, I can collect rainwater efficiently. 

• Soundproofing

Hypothesis –  I think that different materials will block sound to varying degrees. 

• Egg in a Bottle

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can place a peeled hard-boiled egg into a bottle without breaking it.  

• Water Wheel

Hypothesis –   I believe that the flow of water can make a small wheel turn.  

• Invisible Ink

Hypothesis –   I expect that I can create invisible ink that reveals messages under certain conditions.  

•  Heat from the Sun

Hypothesis –   I predict that a dark-colored object will get hotter in the sun than a light-colored one.  

• Layered Liquids

Hypothesis –   I think that liquids of different densities will form layers when mixed.  

• Candle Burning

Hypothesis –   I predict that different types of candles will burn at different rates.  

• Buoyancy with Clay Boats

Hypothesis –   I believe I can make clay boats that float and carry small loads.  

Hypothesis –   I expect that a mixture of cornstarch and water will behave strangely, like a liquid and a solid.  

• Magnetic Slime

Hypothesis –   I predict that adding iron filings to slime will make it magnetic.  

• Stalactites and Stalagmites

Hypothesis –   I think I can grow stalactites and stalagmites using a simple solution.  

Hypothesis –   I expect that different substances will have varying pH levels, which can be tested with indicator paper.  

• Solar Still for Drinking Water

Hypothesis –   I believe that a solar still can produce clean drinking water from saltwater.  

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can create a sundial that tells time using the sun’s shadow.  

• Dissolving Sugar

Hypothesis –   I expect that sugar will dissolve faster in hot water than in cold water.  

• Balloon Inflator

Hypothesis –   I think that a chemical reaction in a bottle can inflate a balloon.  

• Baking Soda and Vinegar Boat

Hypothesis –   I predict that a boat made from materials like baking soda and vinegar will move.  

• Oil Spill Cleanup

Hypothesis –   I believe that using different materials can help clean up an oil spill in water.  

• Seed Dispersal

Hypothesis –   I predict that seeds can be dispersed in various ways, such as by wind or animals.  

• Lemonade Sweetness

Hypothesis –   I expect that lemonade sweetness can be adjusted by adding sugar in different amounts.  

• Density of Solids

Hypothesis –   I think different solid objects will have different densities, which can be measured.  

• Making Ice Cream

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can make ice cream by mxing ingredients and using ice and salt.  

• Conduction and Insulation

Hypothesis –   I believe that different materials will either conduct or insulate heat.  

• Centrifugal Force

Hypothesis –   I predict that spinning an object will create a centrifugal force that affects its path.  

• Balloon-Powered Car

Hypothesis –   I expect that a car powered by a balloon will move because of the escaping air.  

• Candle Extinguisher

Hypothesis –   I think that covering a candle with a glass will extinguish it by using up the oxygen inside.  

• Water Filter Comparison

Hypothesis –   I predict that different water filters will remove impurities to varying degrees.  

• Capillary Action

Hypothesis –   I expect that water will rise differently in materials with varying capillary action.  

• Static Electricity and Salt

Hypothesis –   I believe that salt can be moved with static electricity.  

• Food Coloring in Flowers

Hypothesis –   I predict that adding food coloring to water will change the color of flowers.  

• Bottle Trombone

Hypothesis –   I think I can make a simple trombone-like instrument using a plastic bottle.  

• Windmill Power

Hypothesis –   I expect that a windmill can generate power when exposed to wind.  

• Chewing Gum Flavor

Hypothesis –   I predict that the flavor of chewing gum changes over time as it’s chewed.  

• Yeast Balloons

Hypothesis –   I believe that yeast will produce gas that can inflate a balloon.  

• Water Wheel Efficiency

Hypothesis –   I think that the design of a water wheel affects its efficiency in generating power.  

• Simple Electric Circuit

Hypothesis –   I expect that I can make a light bulb glow by completing an electric circuit.  

• Sugar Crystal Lollipop

Hypothesis –   I predict that sugar crystals will grow on a string dipped in a sugary solution.  

• Temperature and Magnetism

Hypothesis –   I believe that magnets will behave differently at various temperatures.  

• Styrofoam and Acetone

Hypothesis –   I expect that acetone will dissolve styrofoam.  

• Starch in Foods

Hypothesis –   I think I can test for the presence of starch in different foods using iodine.  

• Balloon-Powered Boat

Hypothesis –   I predict that a boat powered by a balloon will move on water.  

• Melting Chocolate

Hypothesis –   I expect that chocolate will melt at different rates when heated.  

• Air Pollution and Plant Growth

Hypothesis –   I believe that exposing plants to air pollution will affect their growth.  

• Simple Motor

Hypothesis –   I predict that I can build a simple motor that turns when an electric current flows through it.  

• Lemon Battery Voltage

Hypothesis –   I expect that different fruits will produce varying amounts of electricity when used as batteries.  

• Fireworks in a Jar

Hypothesis –   I think that mixing oil and colored water will create a fireworks-like display in a jar.  

• Bending Water with Static Electricity

Hypothesis –   I predict that static electricity can bend a stream of water from a faucet.  

• Soda Can Fizz

Hypothesis –   I expect that dropping a mentos candy into a soda can will cause fizzing.  

• Tornado Tube

Hypothesis –   I believe that connecting two plastic bottles with a tornado tube will create a vortex.  

• Magnetic Attraction and Distance

Hypothesis –   I predict that magnets will attract objects from varying distances.  

• Heat Absorption by Colors

Hypothesis –   I think that objects of different colors will absorb heat differently under sunlight.  

• Lemon Battery Power

Hypothesis –   I expect that a lemon battery can power a small LED light.  

• Strawberry DNA Extraction

Hypothesis –   I believe I can extract DNA from strawberries using common household items.  

• Marshmallow Density

Hypothesis –   I predict that marshmallows of different shapes and sizes have different densities.  

• Balloon-Powered Windmill

Hypothesis –   I think a windmill with balloons will turn when exposed to air.  

• Spinning Colors

Hypothesis –   I expect that spinning a color wheel will create the illusion of blending colors.  

• Sound and Vibration

Hypothesis –   I predict that different objects will create different sounds when struck and vibrate differently.  

• Rock Erosion

Hypothesis –   I believe that different rocks will erode at varying rates when exposed to water.  

• Air Pressure and Crushed Can

Hypothesis –   I expect that changing air pressure will crush an empty can.  

• Straw Flute

Hypothesis –   I think that cutting and blowing through a straw can produce musical notes.  

• Bottle Rocket

Hypothesis –   I predict that a bottle rocket filled with water and pressurized air will launch into the air.  

• Fruit Electricity

Hypothesis –   I believe that different fruits can produce electricity using simple circuits.  

• Melting Snow and Ice

Hypothesis –   I expect that different substances can help melt snow and ice at varying rates.  

• Plant Growth in Different Soils

Hypothesis –   I think that different soils will affect the growth of plants differently.  

• Static Electricity and Salt and Pepper

Hypothesis –   I predict that salt and pepper can be moved with static electricity.  

• Floating Paperclip

Hypothesis –   I expect that surface tension can make a paperclip float on water.  

• Crayon Melt Art

Hypothesis –   I believe that crayons will melt and create art when heated.  

• Balloon-Powered Hovercraft

Hypothesis –   I predict that a hovercraft powered by balloons will glide over a smooth surface.  

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Importance Of 5th Grade Science Project Ideas With Hypothesis For Students 

In this section, we will discuss the importance of 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis for students: 

1. Hands-On Learning

5th-grade science projects with hypotheses offer students a chance to learn through doing. They get to experiment, make predictions, and see the real-world results. This hands-on approach helps students grasp scientific concepts better.

2. Critical Thinking

These projects encourage critical thinking. Students have to come up with educated guesses (hypotheses) and then analyze their experiments’ outcomes. It teaches them to think logically and solve problems.

3. Curiosity and Exploration

Science projects fuel curiosity. They allow students to explore topics they find interesting, making learning more engaging. This curiosity can spark a lifelong interest in science.

4. Application of Knowledge

The things that students have learned in school can be used in real life. It helps them understand that science is not just in books, but all around them. This makes their education more useful.

5. Confidence Building

Successfully completing a science project with a hypothesis can boost a student’s confidence. They see that they can tackle challenging tasks and find solutions. This confidence can extend to other areas of their education and life.

Understanding what makes a good hypothesis is the first step in any 5th-grade science project with a hypothesis. It’s all about making educated guesses and having clear  if-then  statements. Remember to choose a project that matches your interest, is safe, and fits your grade level. With over 120 exciting 5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis, you have a world of possibilities to explore. 

Moreover, these projects offer hands-on learning, boost critical thinking, and ignite curiosity. They let you apply what you’ve learned in school to real life. Completing these projects can build your confidence, showing that you can tackle challenges and make discoveries. So, dive into the world of 5th-grade science project ideas with hypothesis and start your exciting scientific journey!

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Weather Science Fair

What are some good ideas for science fair projects.

How do clouds and cloud formation relate to weather patterns?

• How does weather affect human emotion

Is weather related to local crop harvests?

Projects that test a hypothesis

Here are some suggestions for projects to test a hypothesis. We give one possible hypothesis for each project, but many others are also possible. After stating your hypothesis, design and carry out an experiment to test it.

How does the temperature change during the day?

One possible hypothesis: The temperature is lowest at midnight and highest at high noon.

What is the difference between the temperature in direct sun and in the shade? Is the difference always the same?

One possible hypothesis: The temperature in the shade is at least 10° F but no more than 20° F cooler than in the sun.

One possible hypothesis: The meteorologist on Channel 3 is more often right than the meteorologist on Channel 7.

How does weather affect human emotion?

One possible hypothesis: People are more often sad, depressed, or moody on cloudy days than on sunny days.

Does weather affect test scores? Should teachers give tests on rainy days so students perform better?

One possible hypothesis: Students do better on tests on rainy days than on sunny days.

You could test this hypothesis by giving a timed test such as a math addition or multiplication test to the same people on very different weather days. Do they score better or faster in good or bad weather? You could also look at any data on SAT scores, usually required for entrance to a university, to see if any research has been done correlating them to weather conditions.

Projects that review what we already know

Here are some suggestions for research projects to find out how much scientists already know about these things.

What are clouds made of? What are the different kinds of clouds and how are they different?

What causes the wind to blow? Are hurricanes and tornadoes just high winds?

How are tornados formed and what causes them?

What causes hail? Why are some hailstones larger than others?

Does solar activity such as sunspots or coronal mass ejections affect weather on Earth?

Can you outrun a typical tornado or hurricane as it moves across the earth? Should you try? Why or why not?

Is air pressure related to weather as some aneroid barometers suggest with the words that are printed on them?

Projects that find relationships in the data

These suggested projects will require you to make observations (which may require reading the data reports of others) and try to see patterns or relationships in the data.

What are your local rainfall patterns and how do they compare to other parts of the country?

What are the common wind patterns in your area and why?

How do yearly rainfall statistics in your area compare with corresponding numbers of traffic accidents or fatalities?

How do yearly rainfall statistics in your area compare with corresponding forest fires or brush fires?

Is weather related to illnesses? Are there more colds and flu when the weather is cold and damp?

Using an aneroid barometer and cloud types see how well you can predict the general weather using some simple observations: High thin cirrus clouds usually precede a storm the day before. Falling barometers often mean rain is on the way. High pressure often indicates clearing skies. Puffy cottonball looking cumulus clouds are often fair weather clouds. In certain times of the year patterns might exist such as the weather to the northwest often heads your way in the winter or in summer the weather in the southwest often heads your way. Did you predict the weather as well as the local forecasters?

Engineering design project

Design and build an automatic recording weather device. Test it over time.

Do a Science Fair Project!

How do you do a science fair project.

Ask a parent, teacher, or other adult to help you research the topic and find out how to do a science fair project about it.

Test, answer, or show?

Your science fair project may do one of three things:

Test an idea (or hypothesis.)

Answer a question.

Show how nature works.

Topic ideas:

Space topics:.

How do the constellations change in the night sky over different periods of time?

How does the number of stars visible in the sky change from place to place because of light pollution?

Learn about and demonstrate the ancient method of parallax to measure the distance to an object, such as stars and planets.

Study different types of stars and explain different ways they end their life cycles.

Earth topics:

How do the phases of the Moon correspond to the changing tides?

Demonstrate what causes the phases of the Moon?

How does the tilt of Earth’s axis create seasons throughout the year?

How do weather conditions (temperature, humidity) affect how fast a puddle evaporates?

How salty is the ocean?

Solar system topics:

How does the size of a meteorite relate to the size of the crater it makes when it hits Earth?

How does the phase of the Moon affect the number of stars visible in the sky?

Show how a planet’s distance from the Sun affects its temperature.

Sun topics:

Observe and record changes in the number and placement of sun spots over several days. DO NOT look directly at the Sun!

Make a sundial and explain how it works.

Show why the Moon and the Sun appear to be the same size in the sky.

How effective are automobile sunshades?

Study and explain the life space of the sun relative to other stars.

Pick a topic.

Try to find out what people already know about it.

State a hypothesis related to the topic. That is, make a cause-and-effect-statement that you can test using the scientific method .

Explain something.

Make a plan to observe something.

Design and carry out your research, keeping careful records of everything you do or see.

Create an exhibit or display to show and explain to others what you hoped to test (if you had a hypothesis) or what question you wanted to answer, what you did, what your data showed, and your conclusions.

Write a short report that also states the same things as the exhibit or display, and also gives the sources of your initial background research.

Practice describing your project and results, so you will be ready for visitors to your exhibit at the science fair.

Follow these steps to a successful science fair entry!

If you liked this, you may like:

Cool Science Fair Projects

Hoping to enter a science fair for kids but not sure where to begin? Science fair projects are about more than simply coming up with a cool idea and sharing it with others.

Aside from the competitive glory of competing (and maybe winning) at a science fair, kids gain experience working with the scientific method: asking questions, forming hypotheses, testing, collecting data, and sharing results with others. In addition to these fundamental STEM skills, kids also gain valuable experience in collaboration, organizational skills, problem solving, communication, and creativity, turning that science fair project into a stepping stone on the path towards a career in science.

Enroll your child in award-winning live online small-group science classes led by an expert, to build new skills to give them all sorts of science project ideas, including in NASA Science , Smart Devices , and Minecraft Redstone Engineering . Start with free coding classes to build their problem solving skills and creativity.

How to Pick a Winning Science Fair Topic Based on Your Child’s Interests

One of the best ways to get your child excited about a science fair is to help them choose a project that aligns with their natural interests and passions. Rather than simply selecting a topic from a list, consider guiding your child to explore what they genuinely love—whether it’s sports, space, or animals—and transform that interest into a meaningful science project. Here’s a simple mini-guide to brainstorming science fair ideas with your child:

• Start with a Question They’re Curious About: Encourage your child to think about questions they’ve always wondered about. For example, if they’re into sports, they might ask, “How does the type of surface impact a ball’s bounce?” or “What’s the best diet for peak athletic performance?”
• Combine Favorite Hobbies with a Scientific Twist: Think about activities your child enjoys and how science connects to them. If they love computer games such as Minecraft, could they create a project about how coding works behind the scenes or the impact of screen time on focus? If they’re into nature, could they investigate plant growth under different conditions or design an experiment about animal behavior?
• Explore Real-World Problems They Care About: Help your child consider issues they’re passionate about. If they’re concerned about the environment, they might investigate sustainable energy sources, recycling methods, or pollution. Tying their interests to real-world problems can make their project more meaningful and motivating.
• Look for Inspiration in Everyday Life: Sometimes the best ideas come from simple observations. Encourage your child to think about things they encounter daily—like how quickly bread molds in different conditions, or how different liquids affect plant growth.
• Learn from Past Winners: Most science fairs and competitions have pages on their website showcasing the projects of previous winners, press highlights explaining winners' projects, or sometimes even hold webinars where winners share their projects and insights. For example, the winners of the Society for Science's Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge are each featured on their blog .

By centering the project on what they naturally enjoy, kids are more likely to stay engaged, put in extra effort, and create a science fair project they’re truly proud of. Plus, the process of connecting their passions with scientific exploration can make learning more fun and memorable!

Discover Cool Science Fair Projects

In this list, I will share some awesome ideas for students and educators to get inspired, and to make a project that will leave a lasting impression. Of course, there’s a huge gap between a beginner’s project and that of a competitive high schooler, so I have arranged it so you can easily find something for young explorers of all ages.

Explore The Best Science Fair Projects For Elementary Kids

While classic projects like making a cyclone in a bottle or stacking liquids to teach density can make a lasting impact on kids, these projects offer some unique ways of getting elementary schoolers to engage with and develop a passion for science.

1. LEGO Zipline

Kids love LEGO and this project only requires a few blocks and some lengths of string. Projects can teach kids about Physics concepts like gravity, tension, friction, as well as Math ideas like slope, angle, and weight. Set a large slope to make the zip line fast, and add slack to the line to slow it down. You could even arrange this project as a race.

2. Slow Ball Race

Another race idea involves building a tower of ramps to allow a ball to roll down. To give your students a unique challenge, instead of making the ball rush to the bottom, you can have them compete to see who makes the ball reach the bottom slowest. All you need are some building materials (paper, cardboard, or plastic) and a ball, ideally something small and smooth like a ping pong ball.

3. Hot/Cold Water Density Project

For this project, students will only need some clear containers of the same size, hot and cold water and food coloring. Students will study the characteristics of water and how its density changes based on temperature. By adding one color to the cold and another to the hot, students then will stack the openings on top of each other, and if done correctly, the different temperature liquids will remain separate. Pretty cool.

4. Soil Erosion in a Bottle

This simple project requires garden soil, some plants with roots in the soil, and three clear soda bottles. After cutting out the side of each bottle, they will then be filled with different materials. In one bottle there will be simple soil, in another the soil could be mixed with rocks, branches, and other large chunks. In the final bottle, students will plant some flowers, whose roots will prevent the soil from eroding. As water is poured through the others, students will witness how plants help preserve and retain our most precious resource: the Earth.

5. Water Filtration

In another climate science project, students will use a variety of materials to experiment with water filtration. By pouring dirty water through a mix of sand, charcoal, rocks, and debris, students can collect the filtered water and demonstrate how clean it is by passing through the filter. This could be a supplement to conversations about the water cycle.

Explore Science Fair Project Ideas For Middle School Kids

Middle schoolers will be able to do more independent projects, and they should have a higher bar for formulating a hypothesis and repeatedly testing it. By analyzing the data in a group, students can improve their verbal reasoning skills in a team.

6. Seed Sprouting Experiment

With some seeds and some containers filled with various growing media (sand, soil, mulch, compost, etc.), students can test which material is ideal for sprouting seeds. Students can also study ideas of sustainability, food security, and climate change/soil erosion as part of their project.

7. Newton’s Balloon Car

“For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction,” is one of the most famous quotes in science and engineering, and one of Sir Isaac Newton’s most famous Laws of the physical world. Middle school students can experience this law first hand by building a toy car that propels itself with the expelled air of an inflated balloon. Kids love this experiment because it can be presented as a race.

8. Geodesic Domes

The geodesic dome joins the arch as one of the strongest physical structures in architecture and engineering. Students can test different materials and design strategies to build a dome that supports as much load as possible. Maybe teams can try to build a structure that carries the load of a human being!

9. The Greenhouse Effect

All students need for this experiment are a jar, some cellophane wrap, a thermometer, and a sunny window. If you want, students can opt for a heat lamp as well. By covering one jar and leaving one uncovered, this experiment can demonstrate in miniature how the atmosphere captures heat and warms the planet. This of course is a perfect experiment to introduce younger kids about the fundamentals of weather and climate science.

10. Coding in LEGO

As Computer Science plays a huge role in shaping the technologies kids love (Did someone say ‘video games’?), no age is too young to learn about coding and computer science concepts like algorithms, loops, functions, and Binary. In these exciting games, students combine their LEGO creation skills to build an algorithm that can be played like a game, using binary to help a LEGO figurine move through a LEGO environment. LEGO was one of our favorite toys as a kid, and this would be an amazing chance to get kids excited about coding early.

To learn beginner-friendly coding with the help of a live expert, join our free Scratch class , designed by professionals from Google, Stanford, and MIT:

Check Out The Best Science Fair Projects For High School Students

High school science fair projects should be sophisticated and nuanced in their design, analysis, and reporting. Since science fairs can be an important part of getting scholarships and advanced academic placements, high schoolers should be challenged to do college level work in their projects, and hopefully these ideas will help them find something.

11. Enzymes, Yeast, and Cheesemaking

Say Cheese! No, seriously, who doesn’t love cheese? Well, actually the science says that most people are at least a little bit lactose intolerant, but that shouldn’t stop aspiring chefs and chemists from trying out this cool project where students try to use cheesemaking kits to test the chemistry behind this delicious cheese. Kits like the one below are available online and contain not only the materials to make cheese, but also guidelines to build a proper science experiment.

12. Robotics

There has never been a better time to become a robotics scientist. (Seriously, check out the history of robotics !) With the advent of semiconductors, advanced circuits, and tools like 3-D printers and tiny Raspberry Pi computers, students can build a robot from the ground up to solve everyday problems, to interact with humans or nature, to complete human tasks, or to simply tell a story. The possibilities are endless!

To help your child learn more about robotics with the help of a purposeful curriculum and live expert, join our award-winning robotics class .

13. Raspberry Pi

Did we mention Raspberry Pi? Do you want to build your own computer from the circuit board up? These cool little computers are a lot more powerful than their size makes it seem. Students can customize their circuits to build a video-streaming device, a musical instrument like a synthesizer or a drum machine, or a game. There's a bunch of models out there for different budgets or for different purposes, so students should begin with an idea or something they want to do before buying one.

14. Bioassay for Toxicity

In this type of experiment students can test crops for resiliency against drought, flood, or other extreme weather conditions. Students could test to see what level of salt in the soil is ideal for growing crops, and at what point does the salt become toxic? Environmental engineering is a major part in the fight against climate change, and we need scientists to propose solutions to ensure greater food security in the future.

15. Electrolytes in Various Liquids

Is it better to drink sports drinks or a glass of water after a period of exercise? Many products are sold on the promise of delivering electrolytes to help the body recover, but are sports drinks better than a simple glass of orange juice? Using an electrically charged wire, students can test the levels of electrolytes in liquids to both study chemistry and nutrition science in one project.

16. Coding Projects

Now is a great time to learn how to code software. Students have a limitless supply of resources on the Internet, and learning how to do proper Internet research is a fundamental skill for academic success. Students will work in a programming environment like Scratch or Python to build a unique project such as a game to demonstrate their understanding of variables , algorithms , loops , functions, and other CS fundamentals. This project suggests building a program in Python that tests the hackability and strength of passwords.

How to Create a Science Fair Project Presentation That Stands Out

A well-executed science fair presentation can make all the difference when it comes to capturing attention and clearly communicating your project’s results. Beyond just displaying data, a memorable presentation should be creative, engaging, and visually appealing. Here are some tips to help your child create a presentation that stands out:

• Tell a Story: Begin your presentation with an intriguing fact, question, or anecdote that draws your audience in and relates to your project. Start with what sparked your curiosity, walk through your experiments, and share what you discovered.
• Use Visual Displays Creatively: Go beyond charts and graphs by incorporating creative visuals. Use colorful diagrams, infographics, or even 3D models to make complex concepts easier to understand. If your project involves something physical, like a solar system model or a water filtration system, build a model or diorama to give the judges a tangible representation of your work.
• Incorporate Multimedia Elements: Enhance your presentation with multimedia like videos, sound clips, or animations. For instance, a time-lapse video showing plant growth or an audio clip of animal calls can make your project more dynamic.
• Include Interactive Components: Consider incorporating a hands-on element where your audience can participate in a mini-experiment related to your project. This could be as simple as letting them test out a part of your experiment, or showing a live demonstration. Interaction can leave a lasting impression and make your project more memorable.
• Design a Professional and Engaging Display Board: Organize your information neatly, using clear headings and a logical layout. Highlight key points with bold text. Add relevant visuals, use color strategically, and ensure everything is easy to read from a distance. Your child might enjoy learning graphic design and video editing to improve their presentation, in a live online Canva Design class .

Enjoy The Best Science Fair Project Ideas

There are a lot of great ideas out there for students heading to their first science fair in elementary school or competing at the national level against the best students in the country. Whether your child is young or old, these projects can turn the key and get kids excited about learning in STEM . Whatever you choose, try to make it stand out by making it your own!

Written by Bryan Gordon, a Create & Learn instructor. After ten years of working as an English teacher, Bryan began studying Math and Computer Science over the past few years. Aside from writing and teaching, he likes cooking, gardening, playing guitar, and hanging out with his cats, Baguette and Wally.

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Science Project: Slime/Hypothesis

By Janice VanCleave

A hypothesis is your guess about the answer to the project question. This is not a “wild” guess. You need to have a good reason for the hypothesis you state.

Project Question

1. If two solution, glue and borax, are mixed, what effect would the viscosity of the  glue used have on the viscosity of the slime ?

independent variable: viscosity of glue

dependent variable: viscosity of slime

Project Hypothesis

1. Viscosity measures how easy something flows. Glues that are thick and slow to flow will produce thick, slow flowing slime.

2. Viscosity is the resistance to flowing, so the more viscous the glue the more viscous will be the slime.

Step 6 : Experiment

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5th Grade Science Project Ideas with Hypothesis

Are you a 5th grader on a quest to discover the wonders of science? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the top 100 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis to help you embark on your scientific journey. These projects are not only fun but also educational, giving you the opportunity to learn while having a blast.

Science projects are a great way to explore your curiosity, test hypotheses, and better understand the world around you. So, let’s dive right into our list of exciting science project ideas and start making hypotheses!

Top 100 5th Grade Science Project Ideas with Hypothesis

1. The Color-Changing Milk Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing milk, dish soap, and food coloring will create a mesmerizing display of color.

2. The Vinegar and Baking Soda Volcano Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: When vinegar reacts with baking soda, it will create a volcanic eruption.

3. The Seed Germination Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different types of seeds will germinate at different rates.

4. The Balloon Rocket Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Launching a balloon rocket will demonstrate Newton’s third law of motion.

5. The Lemon Battery Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A lemon can be used to generate electricity and power a small LED light.

6. The Egg Drop Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Creating a protective structure for an egg will prevent it from breaking when dropped from a height.

7. The Water Cycle in a Bag Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: By creating a closed system in a bag, you can observe the water cycle in action.

8. The Solar System Model Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Building a model of the solar system will help understand the arrangement of planets and their sizes.

9. The Density Tower Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Liquids with different densities can be layered in a container, forming a colorful tower.

10. The Magnetic Slime Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing magnetic particles with slime will result in a magnetic slime that can be controlled with a magnet.

11. The Paper Airplane Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different designs of paper airplanes will have different flight patterns.

12. The Rainbow in a Jar Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Layering liquids of different densities in a jar will create a colorful rainbow effect.

13. The Homemade Compass Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A homemade compass can accurately determine the direction of the Earth’s magnetic field.

14. The Germs on Surfaces Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different surfaces may harbor varying amounts of germs, and some may be cleaner than others.

15. The Pendulum Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: The length of a pendulum affects the time it takes to swing back and forth.

16. The Water Filtration Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Various materials can be used to filter dirty water and make it clean.

17. The Lava Lamp Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing oil and water with food coloring will create a mesmerizing “lava lamp” effect.

18. The Static Electricity Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Rubbing balloons against different materials will generate static electricity and make objects cling to them.

19. The Rainbow Paper Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Water and sunlight can combine to create a stunning rainbow on white paper.

20. The Music and Plant Growth Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Playing different types of music to plants will affect their growth patterns.

21. The Vinegar and Eggshell Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Soaking an eggshell in vinegar will demonstrate the effects of acid on calcium.

22. The Moldy Bread Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Bread exposed to different conditions will develop mold at varying rates.

23. The Potato Battery Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Potatoes can be used to generate electricity and power a small digital clock.

24. The Dissolving Candy Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different types of candy will dissolve at varying speeds in water.

25. The Osmosis in Gummy Bears Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Gummy bears placed in different solutions will absorb or release water, changing their size.

26. The Melting Ice Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Various substances, such as salt or sugar, can be used to melt ice at different rates.

27. The Color-Changing Carnations Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Carnations can absorb colored water, changing the color of their petals.

28. The Rock Candy Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Crystals can be grown on a string by dissolving sugar in water.

29. The Invisible Ink Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Writing with invisible ink will reveal a hidden message when exposed to heat.

30. The Magic Milk Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Swirling dish soap on the surface of milk will create beautiful, colorful patterns.

31. The Egg in a Bottle Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: An egg can be placed inside a bottle without breaking it using heat and air pressure.

32. The Popcorn Popping Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Popcorn kernels will pop when heated due to the buildup of pressure inside.

33. The Density of Liquids Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different liquids have different densities, which can be determined by their ability to float or sink in each other.

34. The Lemonade Stand Profit Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Running a lemonade stand on different days will yield varying levels of profit.

35. The Homemade Stethoscope Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A homemade stethoscope can be used to listen to different sounds within the body.

36. The Salt and Ice Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Salt can be used to lower the freezing point of ice, allowing you to create ice sculptures.

37. The pH of Household Substances Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different household substances will have varying pH levels, and they can be tested using pH strips.

38. The Rainbow Fire Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Burning different metal salts will produce colorful flames.

39. The Raisins and Soda Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Raisins placed in a glass of soda will exhibit a dancing effect as they move up and down.

40. The Paper Chromatography Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different colors in markers can be separated by capillary action on paper.

41. The Slime Time Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing glue and Borax solution will create a stretchy, gooey slime.

42. The Skittles Rainbow Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Placing different colored Skittles in water will create a colorful rainbow pattern.

43. The Magic Sand Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Magic sand repels water and can be used to create underwater structures.

44. The Baking Soda and Vinegar Balloons Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Inflating balloons with the gas produced by the reaction between baking soda and vinegar.

45. The Water and Oil Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Water and oil do not mix, and their separation can be observed in a homemade lava lamp.

46. The Solar Oven Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A homemade solar oven can be used to cook food using sunlight.

47. The Fizzing Lemonade Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing lemonade with baking soda will create a fizzing, carbonated drink.

48. The Magnet Maze Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Creating a maze with hidden magnets and using a magnetic wand will lead to exciting discoveries.

49. The Glow-in-the-Dark Slime Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Glow-in-the-dark paint can be added to slime to make it illuminate in the dark.

50. The Crystal Snowflakes Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Borax crystals can be grown on pipe cleaners in the shape of snowflakes.

51. The Wind Speed Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different shapes and sizes of windmills will affect the speed at which they spin.

52. The Paper Towel Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Paper towels from different brands will have varying absorption capabilities.

53. The Fruit Battery Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Various fruits can be used to generate electricity and power a small LED light.

54. The Growing Beans Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Growing beans under different conditions, like sunlight and water, will affect their growth.

55. The Mentos and Soda Explosion Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Dropping Mentos candy into soda will create a spectacular eruption.

56. The Tooth Decay Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different drinks will lead to varying levels of tooth decay when teeth are soaked in them.

57. The Rainbow Sugar Water Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Sugar water can be used to create colorful rainbow layers.

58. The Fingerprint Analysis Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Each person’s fingerprint is unique, and it can be analyzed and compared.

59. The Oil Spill Cleanup Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different materials can be used to clean up an oil spill, and their effectiveness can be tested.

60. The pH of Soil Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different types of soil will have varying pH levels, which can affect plant growth.

61. The Lemon Juice Clock Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Lemon juice can be used to power a clock with the help of electrodes.

62. The Separation of Mixtures Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Various mixtures can be separated into their individual components using different methods.

63. The Soundproofing Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different materials can be used to soundproof a room, and their effectiveness can be tested.

64. The Potato Clock Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Potatoes can be used to power a clock with the help of electrodes.

65. The Growing Crystals Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing water and sugar or salt will result in the formation of crystals.

66. The Toothpick Bridge Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Building bridges with toothpicks and glue will demonstrate the principles of engineering and physics.

67. The Egg Floatation Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: The density of water can be changed by adding salt, causing an egg to float.

68. The Homemade Lava Lamp Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A homemade lava lamp can be created using oil, water, and an effervescent tablet.

69. The Cornstarch and Water Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing cornstarch and water will create a substance that behaves like both a solid and a liquid.

70. The Magnetic Field Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different objects will be attracted or repelled by a magnet’s magnetic field.

71. The Coin Cleaning Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Various methods can be used to clean old, tarnished coins.

72. The Paper Bridge Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Building bridges with sheets of paper will test their strength and weight-bearing capacity.

73. The Homemade Volcano Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A homemade volcano model can erupt with the help of baking soda and vinegar.

74. The Earthquake Simulation Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Simulating an earthquake by shaking a container of sand will demonstrate the principles of seismic activity.

75. The Water Surface Tension Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different liquids will affect the surface tension of water, causing objects to float or sink.

76. The Vinegar and Egg Experiment Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Soaking an egg in vinegar will cause it to swell and change in texture.

77. The Fireproof Balloon Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A balloon can be made fireproof by filling it with water.

78. The Rainbow Fireworks Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Burning different metal salts will create a beautiful and colorful fireworks display.

79. The Mystery Substance Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A mystery substance can be identified by testing its properties, such as solubility and conductivity.

80. The Geyser Eruption Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing Mentos candy with soda will create a geyser-like eruption.

81. The Floating Orange Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: An orange can be made to float in water by changing the amount of salt in the water.

82. The Paper Cup Telephone Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A simple telephone can be made using two paper cups and string, allowing for communication over a distance.

83. The Ice Cube Race Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different shapes of ice cubes will melt at varying rates.

84. The Lemon Volcano Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: A lemon can be turned into a volcano by adding baking soda and creating a fizzy eruption.

85. The Light and Plant Growth Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Plants require different amounts of light for growth, and this can be tested using different light sources.

86. The Raisin Dance Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Raisins will “dance” in a glass of soda due to the carbonation.

87. The Rainbow Density Tower Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Liquids with different densities can be layered in a container, forming a colorful density tower.

88. The Rainbow Slime Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing various colors of slime will create a mesmerizing rainbow effect.

89. The Static Electricity Balloons Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Rubbing balloons against different materials will generate static electricity, making them cling to each other.

90. The Solar Eclipse Model Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Building a model of a solar eclipse will help understand the alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun.

91. The Chemical Reaction Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Mixing two or more chemicals will result in a visible chemical reaction.

92. The Heat Conduction Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Different materials will conduct heat at varying rates, which can be tested using a hot plate.

93. The Acid Rain Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Simulating acid rain by spraying vinegar on plant leaves will show its harmful effects.

94. The Growing Gummy Bears Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Gummy bears placed in water will absorb it, growing in size.

95. The Weather Forecast Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Creating a homemade weather station will allow you to predict the weather based on observations.

96. The Colorful Ice Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Adding food coloring to water before freezing it will result in colorful ice cubes.

97. The Crystal Garden Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Growing crystals in a container filled with a super-saturated solution will create a crystal garden.

98. The Colorful Eggshells Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Coloring eggshells with different substances will create vibrant, colorful shells.

99. The Balancing Act Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Creating a balance scale with household items will help understand the concept of weight and balance.

100. The Invisible Force Hypothesis:

Hypothesis: Demonstrating the force of magnetism by testing objects for their magnetic properties.

Final Words

These are just a few of the exciting 5th grade science project ideas with hypothesis. Remember that the key to a successful science project is to start with a clear hypothesis, conduct experiments carefully, and document your findings. Whether you’re exploring the mysteries of chemistry, physics, biology, or environmental science, these projects are a fantastic way to learn and have fun at the same time.

So, gather your materials, make your hypotheses, and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of science. Who knows, you might even discover something new and groundbreaking along the way! 

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Science Fair Project Ideas for 4th Grade: Simple Experiments

Finding the perfect science fair project idea can be daunting for any 4th grader.

This article provides a curated list of simple yet educational experiments tailored for 4th graders, focusing on fundamental concepts and easy-to-follow procedures to ensure success.

You'll discover the best science fair topics for 4th grade, learn how to apply the scientific method, and get presentation tips to create an effective display board that wins.

Introduction to 4th Grade Science Fair Projects

Doing a science fair project can be an exciting way for 4th graders to explore science and learn the scientific method. Here are some tips for coming up with a great science fair project idea:

Choose a Topic That Interests You

Picking a topic you find fascinating will make your project more enjoyable. Here are some popular science categories to consider:

• Earth Science: Study weather patterns, rocks, soil, or changes to the Earth's surface.
• Life Science: Explore plants, animals, human body systems, or health topics.
• Physical Science: Investigate energy, electricity, motion, magnetism, light, or sound.

Keep It Simple

As a 4th grader just learning the scientific method, choose an experiment or engineering project you can complete in a reasonable amount of time. Steer clear of ideas that require expensive or complicated materials.

Here are some simple, engaging science fair ideas perfect for 4th graders:

• Test how different liquids affect how quickly an ice cube melts
• Build a model solar oven to cook a tasty treat
• Explore how the amount of light affects plant growth

Follow the Scientific Method

All good science fair projects follow the scientific method:

• Ask a question
• Form a hypothesis or make a prediction
• Test your hypothesis through an experiment
• Analyze your results
• Draw a conclusion

Choose an experiment where you can clearly measure results and determine if your hypothesis was correct.

With a little creativity, 4th graders can come up with all kinds of innovative science fair ideas to put the scientific method into action. The most important thing is to have fun learning about how the world works!

What is the best science fair project for 4th grade?

Some of the best science fair project ideas for 4th graders include:

Water Filtering Experiment

This project tests different materials to see which one filters water the most effectively. Students can explore concepts like absorption and filtration.

Materials Needed:

• Containers for unfiltered and filtered water
• Filter materials (sand, gravel, coffee filters, paper towels, cotton balls, etc.)
• Dirty water (water mixed with soil or glitter)
• Measuring cups

Experiment Steps:

• Make predictions on which filter will work best
• Pour dirty water through each filter and capture the filtered water
• Measure and record the clarity of the filtered water
• Analyze results to determine which filter method is most effective

Kitchen Chemistry

Students can create exciting chemical reactions using common kitchen ingredients. This allows them to explore chemistry concepts like acids/bases and chemical reactions.

Experiment Ideas:

• Baking soda and vinegar reactions
• Lava lamp using oil, water, food coloring
• Rainbow milk or candy using food dye
• Elephant toothpaste using hydrogen peroxide and yeast

Other Project Ideas

• Crystal formations using borax, sugar, and water
• Seed germination testing different conditions
• Solar oven using cardboard and aluminum foil

The best projects involve hands-on investigation and experimentation. Students should focus on following the scientific method by making a hypothesis, testing variables, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. This process allows them to think critically and problem solve.

What are the top 10 science fair project?

Here are 10 of the best science fair project ideas for 4th graders:

Investigating the Effect of Different Soil Types on Plant Growth

• Test how plants grow in different types of soil like sand, clay, and potting mix
• Easy to set up and observe over time

Creating a Homemade Lava Lamp

• Use oil, water, food coloring and an effervescent tablet to make a colorful lava lamp
• Shows density and chemical reactions

Building a Windmill Model

• Design blades and test lift and drag forces using a fan or hair dryer
• Learn how wind turbines work to generate electricity

Testing How Wings Affect Flight

• Make paper airplane models with different wing shapes and sizes
• Discover how wings provide lift and affect distance flown

Investigating Crystal Growth

• Grow various crystal structures using borax or alum powder
• Learn about geometry, minerals and chemistry

Creating a Bristlebot

• Build a tiny vibrating robot out of a toothbrush head and pager motor
• Explore concepts in robotics and engineering

Studying Seed Germination Rates

• Test how factors like water, light and temperature affect plant growth
• Engage with environmental science and botany

Building a Solar Oven

• Design a simple oven powered by sunlight to cook food
• Learn about solar energy transformation

Testing Strength of Magnets

• Discover which materials magnets attract and how their strength compares
• Apply principles of magnetism and materials science

Investigating Oil Spills and Cleanup Solutions

• Simulate oil spills in water and test cleanup methods like skimmers
• Explore environmental engineering and oil chemistry

What are the topics for science grade 4?

Here are some of the most common science topics studied in 4th grade:

Earth and Space

• Learning about planets, stars, and galaxies
• Understanding concepts like day and night, seasons, solar and lunar eclipses
• Studying Earth's structure - crust, mantle, core
• Exploring weather and climate

Living Things

• Learning about different types of plants and animals
• Studying life cycles of various organisms
• Understanding ecosystems and food chains
• Exploring adaptation and survival

Physical Science

• Investigating forms of energy like light, heat, motion, electricity and magnetism
• Understanding concepts of force and motion
• Learning about physical properties of matter
• Exploring simple machines like pulleys, gears, levers

Scientific Process

• Learning about making observations and measurements
• Designing experiments and science fair projects
• Understanding concepts like hypotheses and variables
• Practicing graphing data and drawing conclusions

The depth and specifics will depend on state standards, but these tend to be the basic framework of science topics for a typical 4th grade curriculum. The content builds upon concepts from earlier grades while preparing students for more advanced studies in later grades.

What should I do my science fair project on?

Doing a science fair project can be exciting yet challenging for 4th graders. Here are some simple yet educational science fair project ideas tailored for 4th graders:

Music's Effect on Animals

Test how music affects animal behavior. You can use your pet at home or observe animals at a shelter or pet store. Have them listen to different music genres and record any changes in behavior. This allows you to learn about the science of sound.

Food Color Preference

Investigate whether the color of food and drinks impacts our preferences. Make identical recipes but vary only the food coloring. Have test subjects taste and rank each item. You'll explore psychology and use the scientific method.

School Germ Hotspots

Culture samples from various locations at your school to discover where bacteria grows. Swab surfaces like doorknobs, desks, keyboards, etc. and grow cultures to analyze. This introduces microbiology and health science.

Music's Effect on Plants

Explore how music affects plant growth by playing different genres for plants over several weeks. Measure growth to collect data. An easy home project using the scientific method.

Animal Food Preferences

Determine which food types dogs or other pets prefer through taste testing. Useful for learning animal behavior and nutrition science.

These science fair ideas cover diverse science disciplines from health to physics. They utilize simple supplies, ensure feasible procedures, and enable fundamental science learning - perfect for 4th graders starting out in STEM!

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Selecting the perfect project idea.

Choosing the right science fair project idea is crucial for 4th graders to have an enjoyable and educational experience. The project should align with the student's interests while also being feasible to complete within available resources and time constraints.

Aligning Interests with Easy Science Fair Project Ideas for 4th Grade

Brainstorming project ideas that fascinate your 4th grader is an excellent starting point. Consider their hobbies, favorite school subjects, or science topics that spark curiosity. For example, kids who like animals can test different dog toys to see which one lasts the longest. Budding environmentalists may want to examine how different fertilizers impact plant growth. There are endless possibilities once you determine your child's unique passions.

Focusing on simple, hands-on experiments based on the science fair project ideas for 4th grade keyword makes it more engaging. Easy science fair projects like testing paper airplane designs, crystal growing, or "magic" potion making capture attention while teaching core concepts.

Evaluating Resources for 4th Grade Science Projects at Home

The convenience of 4th grade science projects at home allows for flexibility, independence, and cost savings. Evaluate household items that can double as scientific equipment like jars for growing mold cultures or various baking ingredients for erupting volcanos. Simple, safe materials found around the house prevent the need to purchase specialized lab supplies.

Consider spaces for conducting experiments like the kitchen, garage or backyard. Ensure adult supervision and discuss safety rules for using household chemicals or sharp tools. Creativity, resourcefulness and adult guidance make home the ideal lab for 4th graders!

Safety First: Ensuring a Secure Experiment Environment

While science exploration should be fun, upholding strong safety practices prevents accidents and injuries. Carefully read experiment instructions with your child, taking time to discuss potential dangers and appropriate precautions. Establish clear rules for using protective equipment, handling chemicals properly and reporting spills or other issues immediately. Consider fire hazards, chemical reactions or other worst-case scenarios to minimize risks.

By selecting the optimal science fair project idea, leveraging handy household resources and prioritizing safety, 4th graders can have an enriching, confidence-building experience. The right balance of education and excitement sparks a lifelong interest in science.

Applying the Scientific Method in 4th Grade Projects

The scientific method provides a step-by-step process to conduct science experiments and can be easily adapted for 4th grade science fair projects. Following the scientific method allows students to learn and apply core scientific principles.

Formulating a Question and Hypothesis

The first step is coming up with a testable question related to the experiment topic. For example, "Does the amount of light affect how fast a plant grows?". Students should then form a hypothesis or educated guess answering their research question. The hypothesis might state, "If a plant gets more light, then it will grow faster."

Experiment Design and Procedure

Next, students design their experiment to test the hypothesis. Key elements include:

• Independent variable: The factor being tested, such as amount of light
• Dependent variable: The outcome being measured, such as plant growth
• Control group: A baseline without changes to the independent variable
• Multiple trials: Repeat experiments to validate results

The procedure provides step-by-step instructions to perform the experiment, allowing others to replicate it.

Analyzing Data and Drawing Conclusions

Students collect and analyze numerical data, often by creating graphs. They look for patterns and use evidence to determine whether the results support or refute their hypothesis. Drawing conclusions summarizes what was learned in the experiment. Students should also identify new questions raised to drive further research.

Following the scientific method, even in simple 4th grade science fair projects, allows young scientists to investigate questions, problem-solve, and gain critical thinking skills through hands-on discovery.

Crafting an Effective Science Fair Display

Creating an impactful science fair display board is key to clearly communicating your experiment and capturing the audience's attention. An effective display outlines the project's purpose, methodologies, and results in a logical, eye-catching manner.

Designing a Science Fair Poster that Stands Out

When designing your science fair poster, focus on creating visual appeal to draw interest to your project. Consider the following tips:

• Use a tri-fold cardboard display board for ample space to showcase graphics and content
• Select a cohesive color scheme and font style for aesthetic appeal
• Incorporate relevant photos, charts, diagrams, and other graphics to visualize the experiment
• Use bullet points and text boxes for clarity instead of long paragraphs

Organizing Your Science Fair Board for Maximum Impact

Strategically organize the layout of your display to guide viewers through the important aspects of your experiment:

• Title and Purpose - Start with a creative title and overview of goals at the top
• Methodology - Flow into a summarized explanation of scientific steps and procedures
• Results - Use graphs, tables, and other diagrams to highlight measurable outcomes
• Conclusions - Close with the main takeaways, learnings, and potential next steps

Leading viewers through an informative storyboard keeps them engaged with your project.

Presentation Skills for Science Fair Success

It's not enough to just have a well-designed display. Practicing strong presentation skills ensures you can effectively convey your experiment's value:

• Memorize key points rather than reading directly from a script
• Prepare simple summaries of the scientific method, results, and conclusions
• Anticipate questions judges may ask and be ready to answer confidently
• Use eye contact, enthusiasm, and body language to confidently engage your audience

Following these best practices for creating your display and presentation guarantees your science fair project leaves a lasting impression!

Easy and Winning 4th Grade Science Fair Project Ideas

Explore a collection of winning science fair projects that are simple to execute and guaranteed to impress judges and classmates.

Exploring Erosion: Earth Science in Action

Investigate the effects of water and wind on soil erosion with a hands-on environmental science project.

• Gather materials like soil, water, a fan or hair dryer, and containers to hold the soil
• Create a model landscape with the soil and simulate rain and wind
• Observe how the landscape changes over time and measure the amount of soil erosion
• Take photos at intervals to visually demonstrate the erosion process
• Explain concepts like weathering, transportation, and deposition that shape landscapes

This engaging project teaches real-world earth science while letting kids get a bit messy!

The Power of Plants: Plant Science Fair Projects

Conduct experiments on plant growth under different conditions, teaching the basics of life science and botany.

• Test how factors like sunlight, water, soil, or fertilizer affect plant growth
• Grow identical plants under controlled variable conditions
• Record quantitative data like plant height over time
• Present findings with tables, graphs, and photos of the plants
• Learn skills like observing, measuring, analyzing and interpreting data

Plant projects allow students to witness biology and the scientific method first-hand!

Volcanic Eruptions: The Classic Volcano Science Fair Project

Create a model volcano and study the chemical reactions that cause eruptions, blending fun with learning science.

• Construct a papier-mâché volcano model
• Prepare a baking soda and vinegar "lava" mixture
• Add the lava to create an eruption, explaining the acid-base reaction
• Color the lava and decorate the volcano for added drama
• Relate the experiment to real volcanic eruptions and plate tectonics

This exciting project captures interest while demonstrating chemical reactions.

Candy Chemistry: A Sweet Study of Reactions

Utilize common confections to explore chemical properties and reactions, making science fun and relatable.

• Perform tests like dissolving candy in water to compare solubility
• Observe candy under a microscope and draw what you see
• Find out how factors like temperature or acidity affect candy
• Relate your observations to concepts like states of matter, solutions, acids/bases
• Enjoy some sweet treats when you're done!

Tasty candy gives kids memorable insight into core chemistry concepts.

With a bit of creativity, 4th graders can explore real science fundamentals with these engaging, hands-on projects guaranteed to educate and impress!

Last-Minute Science Projects for the Procrastinating Student

Finding quick and easy science fair project ideas for 4th graders that can be completed with minimal preparation but still offer valuable learning experiences can seem daunting. However, there are many fascinating science experiments and models that can be assembled rapidly using common household items. These last-minute science projects allow procrastinating students to put together thoughtful and educational displays.

Rapid Reactions: Quick and Fascinating Chemical Experiments

Chemistry offers many opportunities for short, captivating experiments perfect for the 4th grade science fair. Here are some ideas:

Baking soda and vinegar volcanoes - This classic experiment demonstrates a rapid chemical reaction. Simply add baking soda to a small volcano model, pour in vinegar, and watch it erupt.

Magic milk - Add a drop of food coloring to a shallow dish filled with milk. Next, dip a cotton swab in dish soap and touch it gently to the middle of the milk. Watch as the food coloring shoots away from the soap in a colorful display.

Balloon blow up - Pour some vinegar into a bottle then quickly add baking soda. Cap it with a balloon and observe as the carbon dioxide produced inflates the balloon. Kids will be amazed at how fast it grows!

These types of simple, fast experiments allow students to learn about chemistry while creating an exciting display.

Astronomy on the Fly: Solar System Projects for Kids

Creating a model of the solar system is an engaging science fair project that can be assembled rapidly with common items:

Paper plate planets - Have kids color paper plates to represent each planet and write facts. Punch holes halfway through plates and connect them with brads in order of planet size.

Clay model - Roll clay or playdough into different sized balls for each planet. Insert sticks and label with facts. Great for showing relative size differences!

Hanging styrofoam balls - Use styrofoam craft balls of various sizes painted as planets and hung at staggered heights with string to demonstrate orbits.

These hands-on solar system models are perfect last-minute science fair projects to teach 4th graders about space.

Fast Physics: Simple Machines at Work

Quick and easy physics experiments with simple machines include:

Inclined plane - Measure how far different objects roll down a ramp angled over books. Learn how inclined planes reduce friction and effort.

Levers - Balance a ruler on a pencil to compare effort needed to lift loads at different points. Demonstrate how levers multiply force.

Pulleys - Make a pulley with rope over a stick. Compare lifting weights with hands versus with the pulley system. Observe how pulleys redirect force.

These fast, engaging physics experiments demonstrate simple machine concepts clearly and captivatingly!

With a little creativity, even procrastinating students can put together thoughtful, educational science fair projects with just a little time and effort. The experiments and models above teach fascinating scientific concepts quickly and memorably - perfect for the 4th grade science fair!

Conclusion: Celebrating the Spirit of Inquiry

Science fair projects allow 4th graders to explore their curiosity and develop critical thinking skills. By coming up with their own testable question and experiment design, students learn how to apply the scientific method. They gain valuable research, analysis, and communication abilities that will serve them well in later grades.

Here are some key takeaways when developing 4th grade science fair ideas:

• Choose projects that investigate an interesting concept with a clear hypothesis. This helps focus the experiment.
• Break down the project into simple, logical steps. Complex procedures can overwhelm students.
• Emphasize the learning process over the end result. Science is iterative and a "failed" experiment can still teach a lot.
• Make sure students drive the project with teacher guidance, rather than the other way around. This gives them ownership.
• Have students present to classmates or parents. Practicing communication is an integral scientific skill.

Science fairs create enriching opportunities for 4th graders to unlock their inner scientist. When students drive their own investigative journey, they gain self-confidence along with scientific skills. So encourage them to explore their interests, get creative, and most importantly, have fun!

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• Reading Games for 4th Grade: Teacher Resources
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• Writing Prompts for 4th Grade: Fostering Creativity
• The Importance of Hands-On Science Experiments

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Understanding Science

How science REALLY works...

• Understanding Science 101
• Misconceptions
• Testing ideas with evidence is at the heart of the process of science.
• Scientific testing involves figuring out what we would  expect  to observe if an idea were correct and comparing that expectation to what we  actually  observe.

Misconception:  Science proves ideas.

Misconception:  Science can only disprove ideas.

Correction:  Science neither proves nor disproves. It accepts or rejects ideas based on supporting and refuting evidence, but may revise those conclusions if warranted by new evidence or perspectives.  Read more about it.

Testing scientific ideas

Testing ideas about childbed fever.

As a simple example of how scientific testing works, consider the case of Ignaz Semmelweis, who worked as a doctor on a maternity ward in the 1800s. In his ward, an unusually high percentage of new mothers died of what was then called childbed fever. Semmelweis considered many possible explanations for this high death rate. Two of the many ideas that he considered were (1) that the fever was caused by mothers giving birth lying on their backs (as opposed to on their sides) and (2) that the fever was caused by doctors’ unclean hands (the doctors often performed autopsies immediately before examining women in labor). He tested these ideas by considering what expectations each idea generated. If it were true that childbed fever were caused by giving birth on one’s back, then changing procedures so that women labored on their sides should lead to lower rates of childbed fever. Semmelweis tried changing the position of labor, but the incidence of fever did not decrease; the actual observations did not match the expected results. If, however, childbed fever were caused by doctors’ unclean hands, having doctors wash their hands thoroughly with a strong disinfecting agent before attending to women in labor should lead to lower rates of childbed fever. When Semmelweis tried this, rates of fever plummeted; the actual observations matched the expected results, supporting the second explanation.

Testing in the tropics

Let’s take a look at another, very different, example of scientific testing: investigating the origins of coral atolls in the tropics. Consider the atoll Eniwetok (Anewetak) in the Marshall Islands — an oceanic ring of exposed coral surrounding a central lagoon. From the 1800s up until today, scientists have been trying to learn what supports atoll structures beneath the water’s surface and exactly how atolls form. Coral only grows near the surface of the ocean where light penetrates, so Eniwetok could have formed in several ways:

Hypothesis 2: The coral that makes up Eniwetok might have grown in a ring atop an underwater mountain already near the surface. The key to this hypothesis is the idea that underwater mountains don’t sink; instead the remains of dead sea animals (shells, etc.) accumulate on underwater mountains, potentially assisted by tectonic uplifting. Eventually, the top of the mountain/debris pile would reach the depth at which coral grow, and the atoll would form.

Which is a better explanation for Eniwetok? Did the atoll grow atop a sinking volcano, forming an underwater coral tower, or was the mountain instead built up until it neared the surface where coral were eventually able to grow? Which of these explanations is best supported by the evidence? We can’t perform an experiment to find out. Instead, we must figure out what expectations each hypothesis generates, and then collect data from the world to see whether our observations are a better match with one of the two ideas.

If Eniwetok grew atop an underwater mountain, then we would expect the atoll to be made up of a relatively thin layer of coral on top of limestone or basalt. But if it grew upwards around a subsiding island, then we would expect the atoll to be made up of many hundreds of feet of coral on top of volcanic rock. When geologists drilled into Eniwetok in 1951 as part of a survey preparing for nuclear weapons tests, the drill bored through more than 4000 feet (1219 meters) of coral before hitting volcanic basalt! The actual observation contradicted the underwater mountain explanation and matched the subsiding island explanation, supporting that idea. Of course, many other lines of evidence also shed light on the origins of coral atolls, but the surprising depth of coral on Eniwetok was particularly convincing to many geologists.

• Take a sidetrip

Visit the NOAA website to see an animation of coral atoll formation according to Hypothesis 1.

• Teaching resources

Scientists test hypotheses and theories. They are both scientific explanations for what we observe in the natural world, but theories deal with a much wider range of phenomena than do hypotheses. To learn more about the differences between hypotheses and theories, jump ahead to  Science at multiple levels .

• Use our  web interactive  to help students document and reflect on the process of science.
• Learn strategies for building lessons and activities around the Science Flowchart: Grades 3-5 Grades 6-8 Grades 9-12 Grades 13-16
• Find lesson plans for introducing the Science Flowchart to your students in: Grades 3-5 Grades 6-8 Grades 9-16
• Get  graphics and pdfs of the Science Flowchart  to use in your classroom. Translations are available in Spanish, French, Japanese, and Swahili.

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50 Sensational 7th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Activities

Mummification, oxidation, electroplating, and more!

Engage every student with these 7th grade science fair projects, whether they’re interested in biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, or any other discipline. Plus, find interesting classroom demos, experiments, and hands-on activities to spice up your lesson plans!

To make it easier to find classroom activities or science fair ideas for 7th grade, we’ve rated all the projects by difficulty and the materials needed:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

Biology and Ecology Science Fair Ideas for 7th Grade

Chemistry science fair ideas for 7th grade, physics and engineering science fair ideas for 7th grade, 7th grade science classroom demos, experiments, and hands-on activities.

Want to learn more about animals or human behavior, the environment around you, or other life science topics? Try these 7th grade science fair projects.

Learn whether color affects memory

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

Can certain colors improve your memory? This experiment explores that idea using different text, background colors, and blue light settings on devices.

Learn more: Colors and Memory at Education.com

Explore how sugary drinks affect teeth

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium ADVERTISEMENT

The calcium content of eggshells makes them a great stand-in for teeth. In this experiment, students use eggs to determine how soda and juice stain the teeth and wear down the enamel. (Bonus: Have students try different toothpaste and toothbrush combinations to see how effective they are.)

Learn more: Eggshell Experiment at Feels Like Home

Extract DNA from an onion

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Learn how to extract DNA from an onion (most of what you need you can find at home, and you can get 95% ethanol at Amazon ). Then, turn it into an experiment by applying the theory to other fruits or vegetables to see if you can get similar results.

Stretch your mind with a flexibility experiment

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Find out how important stretching really is by comparing the flexibility of willing test subjects before and after stretch exercises. This is a great experiment for fitness fans.

Learn more: Flexibility Experiment at We Have Kids

Construct a DIY grow box

Design a grow box using a cardboard box, foil, and a plug-in light socket . Then, use it for all kinds of plant-based science fair ideas for 7th grade students.

Learn more: DIY Grow Box at Uplifting Mayhem

Collect and control biofilm

Bacteria that accumulate on objects in the water form a substance called biofilm. In this 7th grade science fair project, students build an apparatus to collect biofilm and then experiment with ways to reduce the amount of biofilm that accumulates over time.

Learn more: Biofilm Experiment at The Homeschool Scientist

See if caffeine helps you type faster

People seek out a jolt of caffeine when they’re feeling sluggish, but does it really help them perform better? This 7th grade science fair project tasks students with answering that question using the scientific method.

Find out if all plants are phototropic

You probably already know that many plants grow toward the light. But do all of them respond in the same way? Test several types of plants to find out.

Devise a water filtration system

Plenty of homes use water filtration systems these days, but how do they really work? This chemistry experiment explores how charcoal filters impurities from drinking water.

Learn more: Water Filtration at The Homeschool Scientist

Determine whether text abbreviations are a new language

Kids are fluent in text-speak, but does it really count as a whole new language? In this 7th grade science fair project, students research language and the history of texting, then compile a texting glossary and consider texting’s practical applications.

Learn more: Text Language at Education.com

If you’re fascinated by test tubes, beakers, and Bunsen burners, check out these interesting 7th grade science fair projects and ideas.

Design your own slime

Chances are good your students already love making and playing with slime. Turn the fun into an experiment by changing the ingredients to create slime with a variety of properties, from magnetic to glow-in-the-dark!

Copper-plate some coins

Students need just a few simple supplies to perform electroplating, but the results are always impressive. (Get copper strips  and 9V battery snap connectors with alligator clips on Amazon.) Turn this into a 7th grade science fair project by changing up the variables (does temperature matter?) or items being electroplated.

Learn more: Electroplating at KiwiCo

Swab and test for germs

Germ experiments are one of the most popular science fair ideas for 7th grade students. Swab household items, school supplies, and more to discover what’s living on the items around you.

Learn more: Germ Experiment at Angelic Scalliwags

Spherify your favorite beverage

Spherification is a hot trend in top restaurants, but 7th grade science students can easily replicate it at home with a spherification kit . This is a cool chemistry experiment, and tasty too!

Test calorie counts in packaged foods

Ever wonder how scientists determine how many calories are in your food? Try this experiment to find out!

Explore mummification

First, learn how to mummify a hot dog using baking soda as a desiccant. Then, experiment with other desiccants or items to turn this into a bona fide experiment.

Play around with oxidation

Can you find a way to slow or prevent oxidation (rusting)? This is one of those 7th grade science fair ideas that’s simple in concept but has lots of practical applications.

Learn more: Oxidation Experiment at Teach Beside Me

Blow hot or cold bubbles

Blowing bubbles may sound like too much fun for a science project, but when conditions like temperature are altered, the experimental part kicks in. What conditions do you need to blow a bubble that freezes?

Learn more:  Bubble Life & Temperature at ThoughtCo.

Whip up some eggshell chalk

Use the calcium in eggshells to make your own sidewalk chalk. Then, tinker with the recipe to see if you can make the chalk last longer, resist water, or other variables.

Learn more: DIY Chalk at Kidspot

See the effect of acid rain on plants

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

This simple project tests whether acid rain has any effect on plant life, using vinegar in place of fossil fuels. Experiment with different acid concentrations and pH levels for a more advanced version.

Learn more: Acid Rain Experiment at STEAM Powered Family

Explore the laws of motion, the science of energy, or STEM challenge engineering ideas through 7th grade science fair projects like these.

Drive a balloon-powered car

Engineer a balloon-powered car using basic materials from around the house (even the wheels are bottle caps!). Experiment to see how far or fast you can make the car go.

Learn more: Balloon Car at Prolab

Construct a geodesic dome

Budding engineers will love designing, building, and testing the strength of the fascinating geodesic dome. This experiment requires nothing more than newspaper and masking tape!

Design a solar oven

Students experiment with the best way to build a solar oven, exploring thermal energy, reflection, convection, and other physics concepts. They can serve up their experiment results along with their final reports!

Learn more: Solar Oven at Children’s Science Center

Lend a helping hand

This is a great individual or group 7th grade science project, as it encourages students to use and hone their design and engineering skills to make a working model of a hand. If you’ve got robotics skills, take this project to a more advanced level.

Build a Da Vinci bridge

There are plenty of bridge-building experiments out there, but this one is unique. It’s inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old self-supporting wooden bridge. Build a model and test the amount of weight it can hold, or craft a full-size version to put Da Vinci’s plan into action.

Construct a water clock

You’ll blow your 7th grade science students’ minds when you tell them they’re going to build a clock using engineering that’s been around for thousands of years. The supplies are simple, but the results are pretty neat!

Learn more: Water Clock at STEAM Powered Family

Generate electricity

In this science fair project, kids build a generator from scratch. Turn it into an experiment by varying the materials to see if you can increase the amount of energy it produces.

Test the elasticity of balloons

Explore whether heat and cold have an effect on elasticity using balloons. Try this with other materials too to expand the project. ( Find more balloon science here! )

Freeze water in an instant

Explore the concept of nucleation (the process of chain reactions) by turning water into ice in seconds! Make this a 7th grade science fair project by trying the same process with other liquids.

Auto-feed your pet

Difficulty: Advanced / Materials: Advanced

Can you build a device that feeds your pets automatically? Even better, can you make it inexpensive and easy for others to build too? This project has real practical applications.

Use these classroom activities to teach human biology, mechanical engineering, and more physics and chemistry concepts in engaging and exciting ways.

Use Oreos to teach mitosis

A 7th grade science activity that doubles as a sweet treat? Your students are going to love this activity using Oreo cookies and colorful sprinkles to make cellular mitosis models.

Learn more: Oreo Mitosis at Ballin With Balling

Twist pipe cleaners to explore meiosis

Meiosis is similar to mitosis, but it’s specific to the production of gametes. These hands-on models use basic materials like pipe cleaners and beads to make the process easier to visualize.

Learn more: Meiosis Models at Science Prof Online

Teach about “Homer-o-stasis”

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Advanced

This is such a fun way to teach kids about the concept of homeostasis! Get all the instructions you need at the link.

Learn more: Homer-o-stasis at The Trendy Science Teacher

Sort jelly beans to learn genetics

If you’re learning about how genetic traits are passed along from parent to child, try this jelly-bean demo. When you’re finished, you can enjoy a sweet treat!

Learn more: Jelly Bean Genetics at The Owl Teacher

Design a pinball machine

Give your class basic supplies like rubber bands, plastic cups, and cardboard boxes. Then challenge them to create their very own pinball machines!

Learn more: Pinball STEM Challenge at Student Savvy

Conduct a carbon cycle lab activity

If you’ve got access to some basic chemicals, conduct this lab that helps students see the carbon cycle in action using their own breath.

Learn more: Science Lessons That Rock

Make a tea bag float on air

This easy experiment is a cool way to show kids how heat affects air molecules, making hot air rise. They’ll need some supervision with the fire, so try this out on the playground for extra safety.

Learn more: Floating Tea Bags at Coffee Cups and Crayons

Learn how salt affects density

Explore the salinity of various bodies of water, then re-create their waters to see if you can make an egg float or sink. Experiment with other objects too.

Learn more: Saltwater Density at Uplifting Mayhem

Watch the greenhouse effect in action

Climate change can be a contentious topic, so start by teaching kids about the greenhouse effect, which is easy to see and understand. Then, urge them to explore data collected by other scientists so they can learn to make informed decisions about topics like global warming.

Learn more: Greenhouse Effect at Teaching Science With Lynda

Blow bubbles to explore cell membranes

Kids are never too old to enjoy bubbles, so use them to learn more about cell membranes in this fun 7th grade science activity.

Learn more: Cell Membrane Bubbles at The Trendy Science Teacher

Marvel at a density rainbow

We learn early on that oil floats on water, but where do other liquids fit in? Students find out when they conduct this colorful density experiment that has them layer different substances, making a rainbow.

Ride the wave (machine)

Learning about wave action? Build this surprisingly easy wave machine for hands-on exploration.

Learn more: Wave Machine at Engaging Science Labs

Create a taxonomy system

Students can step into Linnaeus’ shoes by creating their own system of taxonomy using a handful of different dried beans. This is a fun 7th grade science project to do in groups, so students can see the differences between each group’s system.

Learn more: Taxonomy Project at Our Journey Westward

Bake an edible cell model

Sure, students could build a cell model out of clay, but cake and candy are so much more delicious! Check out the link below to see how one teacher does it.

Learn more: Edible Cell Model at Weird Unsocialized Homeschooling

Swing a glass of water

This classic science experiment teaches kids about centripetal force. Be forewarned: This could potentially make a bit of a mess, so consider taking this one outside.

Simulate natural selection with a lab activity

Travel to the Galápagos Islands and follow in Darwin’s footsteps as students explore finch beak adaptations in this clever natural selection lab.

Learn more: Natural Selection Lab at Teach To Serve

Participate in Project FeederWatch

Citizen science projects bring science to life for kids! One of our favorites is Project FeederWatch, where kids put out bird feeders and then count and report on their visitors. This is a great way to build a love of birding for life.

Learn more: Classroom Resources at Project FeederWatch

Experiment with basic substances to learn about chemical change

If you’re introducing lab work and chemistry basics to 7th graders, this easy lab is a great way to do it. They’ll learn safety procedures and get to feel like “real” scientists as they pour, mix, swirl, and more.

Learn more: Chemical Change Lab at Super Sass and Science Class

Assemble an edible DNA model

DNA models are always more fun when you can snack on them afterwards. Want to make this a healthier activity? Use fruits and veggies to make models instead.

Learn more: Edible DNA Model at Hess UnAcademy

Craft a food web marble maze

Combine a STEM challenge with learning about food webs in this clever project. Kids will love the hands-on aspect, and it will really help the learning stick.

Learn more: Food Web Marble Maze at Teach Savvy

Keep the STEM learning going with these 15 Items All Middle School Math Classrooms Need .

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