3Rd Grade Science Project

http://www.sciencebuddies.org/

Awesome site for science projects

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Although they are cool, unfortunately, growing crystals, making a replica of a volcano, etc. is not what schools are looking for in science projects these days. I just judged the science fair at my kids school. The best projects involved doing an actual experiment. You can find experiment ideas online, but here is one example I can give you that was really good: Have your son research different types of bridges to get an idea of what is already known about the strength of them (be sure to note this in the report). Then have your son make a hypothesis about what type bridge he thinks will be the strongest and why. Then have him do an experiment where he builds 2 different types of bridges out of craft sticks and glue. Then add weight to each bridge in increments (always use metric measurements in the report) to see which one can withstand the most weight before collapsing. Be sure your son states whether his original hypothesis was valid (true) or invalid (untrue). Your son's school should provide detailed, written instructions of what they expect for the project. Be sure to read them and follow them carefully. Leave plenty of time to do any project. Good luck.

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I can't remember how to do it, but I remember it was rather simple to grow crystals in a mason jar. And it's usually pretty fascinating to kiddos (and to me too actually!).

1 mom found this helpful

My 8th grade daughter has done required science projects since 3rd grade. It is not my favorite thing either...

I'm curious though.....In PlanoISD all the science fair projects, judging, etc is over. It was all done in Jan.

Google Science Fair projects and you will get a lot of good ideas.

Our schools have always provided detail as to what exactly is required, etc. In Middle school this project starts by late September and has certain aspects due at time intervals to make sure no one procrastinates!

There are a ton of easy and hard things on the internet. We've done thermoplastics, sodas, humidity, to name a few. Just make sure you keep the project at his level and take pictures to prove he is working on the project.

Good luck and with many more projects to come!! I thought we'd be done with science projects by 5th grade but if your child is in honors classes.....it is a requirement, just an FYI there....

TF

I remember doing a growth experiment when I was in school. My mom helped me pick this experiment because it was something I could do all by myself and not turn into a parent's project. I put the same amount of soil and seeds in 3 tin pie pans.
One was placed under the kitchen sink in complete darkness. Another was placed by an uncovered window for complete daylight. And the third was placed in the fridge for constant cold temperature. I equally watered them all and took pictures each week to show the differences. I then attached the pictures on a big cardboard along with short write-ups of what I expected and what actually happened.

I agree that you should look on-line for ideas. We did an experiment where we boiled water (hot and cold)and determined how quickly adding salt affected the boiling rate. I took photos of my son measuring, etc. to post on the posterboard.
I never liked doing science projects either. Good Luck!