My kids have both been required to do a science fair project by their teachers in 6th grade. It is my least favorite assignment they ever have. I would rather do maturation homework with them.
I understand the goal of the science fair, but I just don't have the instinct to guide them to a proper topic. Then they do the experiment and write up a conclusion and then we find out what we did wasn't science-y enough. I have told them both, flat out, that I don't care what grade they get on their S.F.P. so long as they turn something in.
A few years ago, The Girl did one one on just how full you can fill a glass. I believe the science concept here is called: Curvature of the Surface Tension of Water. Or something like that.
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This year The Boy is doing his project on TV forecasters and how well they can really predict the weather. We set up a chart for him to write the predicted temperatures for a 7 day forecast. Then each day he had to check all 4 stations' weather report and write down what temperature was actually reached.
It sounds pretty good to me, but I am sure he will make his big poster display, turn it in, and get a review back that there wasn't enough science in it.
Hey, as the mom I don't make these things up. I just try to help the kid get something turned it that fulfills the requirement. With help like mine, my kids will probably end up English teachers.
5 comments:
I understand how you feel. Matthais is required to do one this year too. He wanted help coming up with an idea and all I could do was shrug my shoulders. He ended up chosing one on a visual search principle, you know, like where's waldo...Luckily, his teacher has held his hand most of the way and I haven't had to be too involved...
You made me laugh today. Some day ask me about the volcano that blew up and the fruit fly attack. Not really fond memories. He! he!
After judging a couple of science fairs I can tell you The Boy's will be considered 'research' not science. I guess the silver lining is you won't go on :)
Crud, Taffy. I had the same issue with The Girl a few years ago. I thought we got it right this time. Oh well, like you said, not moving on is fine by me.
Science Fair in our house becomes a project with Dad. I have little interest or desire in helping them figure it all out. He loves doing it with them. It is so nice for me.
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