Science Fair Tips for Teachers

  • Class time spent breaking down and exploring the steps of a science fair project execution and report is time well spent, providing students with an understanding that could set them up for science fair wins and a lifetime of STEM success!
  • Consider using an example to walk students through the process. Here are some examples you could use for this purpose.
  • As you talk through the process of data collection and analysis, explain how the types of data collected and the accuracy of that information impact the accuracy of the end conclusions.
  • For example, explain how a student can apply random sampling to a project, and why it matters. Also, explain how it differs from random assignment of the sampled subjects and conditions. This video from Dr. Mine Çetinkaya-Rundel explains this well.
  • Being able to communicate findings is often cited as the most important soft skill for statisticians. Help your students understand that sharing their findings in an interesting, accessible way matters, both in writing and in conversations with judges.

The Tips for Students page provides additional insight into the process ASA recommends students follow for science fair projects.