Science Fair Hypothesis
Younger students will often participate in science fair by presenting a science experiment that has a predictable result. That is, these age groups will follow instructions and use commonly found materials to demonstrate a fact or interesting tidbit about the nature of biology or chemistry. Older students, however, have advanced beyond simply using experiments that have already been done thousands of times before. At this age they will often be required to develop a science fair hypothesis and take all the necessary steps to prove or disprove that hypothesis. This requirement is designed for the older students because they have developed the learning and thinking abilities required for analysis and application. These higher order thinking skills are used to develop the science fair hypothesis and put that hypothesis to the test.
A science fair hypothesis can be developed around any topic related to science. One of the most popular science fair hypothesis categories currently being explored by older students is in the environmental arena. Many students are developing their own creative science fair hypothesis in order to address the concerns of environmental issues. While these topics decreased for a while, they are making a strong comeback, as students want to research a science fair hypothesis that will have a positive impact on the health of the planet. Many of these science fair hypotheses are developed by students at the high school level as an attempt to discover solutions to issues such as pollution, clean water, greenhouse gases and other problems we are facing on the environmental front. The current student body of budding young scientists is very motivated and interested in issues on this topic.
A science fair hypothesis surrounding the need for solutions to our even increasing concern for the health of the planet is one from which we all benefit. While the adult world may view these science fair projects as kid stuff there are others that will seriously consider the findings of these young scientists. Scientists currently working in environmental fields judge many of these science fairs. They are in search of the creative minds of the future generation in hopes of encouraging them to continue their work in testing a science fair hypothesis. What begins in school may just be the solution to our ecological problems on the planet.
