Thursday, December 25, 2008

Christmas Day 2008

Christmas is the Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus, who Christians believe is The Son of God. Christmas means "Feast day of Christ". Celebrated on the 25th of December in Western Christianity (7th of January in Eastern Orthodox Churches). Modern customs of the holiday include gift-giving, church celebrations, and the display of various decorations—including the Christmas tree, lights, mistletoe, nativity scenes and holly. In western cultures Santa Claus is a popular mythological figure often associated with bringing gifts to children at Christmas. Christmas is also celebrated by many non-Christians, all over the world, as a secular, cultural festival.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Decorate Your Christmas Tree With Flashing LEDs
Subject: Electronics
Grade level: Middle / High School
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Building Type
Cost: Medium
Affiliation: The Electronics Club
Description: This project flashes 18 LEDs at three different rates and is possible to use these to create a Christmas decoration of your choice. The circuit is simple and cheap by using the 4060B IC which is a counter and oscillator (clock) in one package. The circuit requires a 9V supply, such as a PP3 battery. It will not work with lower voltages and a higher voltage will destroy the LEDs.
Link: http://www.kpsec.freeuk.com/projects/xmastree.htm

Sunday, December 21, 2008

First Day of Hanukkah 2008

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt of the 2nd century BCE. Hanukkah is observed for eight nights by lighting candles, singing special songs, eating doughnuts, playing the dreidel (a four-sided spinning top) game and giving money to children.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Is it possible to alter the laws of probability by adding weight to one side of a dreidel?
Subject: Physics / Mathematics
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Law
Awards: None
Affiliation: California State Science Fair
Year: 2002
Description: A few dreidels were spun until a well balanced one was found. Then weights (glued washers) were added to one side of the dreidel, one at a time up to three. The dreidel was spun for two hundred times at each weight level. Results were recorded: which side of the dreidel will land the most.
Link: http://www.usc.edu/CSSF/History/2002/Projects/J0222.pdf

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Wright Brothers Day 2008

Wright Brothers Day commemorates the first successful flights in a heavier than air, mechanically propelled airplane, that were made by Orville and Wilbur Wright on December 17, 1903, near Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Repeat Wright Brothers Early Experiments With Kites
Subject: Aviation
Grade level: High School / College
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Bulding Type
Cost: Medium
Description: Wright Brothers' first flight experiments began in July 1899 when Wilbur put wing-warping to the test by building and flying a five-foot box kite in the approximate shape of a biplane. When the wings were warped, or twisted, one end would receive more lift and rise, starting a turn in the direction of the lower end. Warping was controlled by four lines attached to the kite. The lines led to two sticks held by the kite flyer, who tilted them in opposite directions to twist the wings and make the kite bank left or right. This web page describes those Wright Brother's early flight experiments with kites - background and building instruction links.
Link: http://www.juliantrubin.com/bigten/wrightkite.html

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Tycho Brahe (1546-1606) Was Born

Known for his accurate and comprehensive astronomical and planetary observations without using a telescope.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Are solar flares harmful to your health?
Subject: Astronomy / Physics
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: 1st place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2006
Description: Main topics: solar flares, proton swarms, health effects, X and M class solar flares, effects on wireless communication, sunspots, quizz.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/sher6r2/

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Human Rights Day 2008 - 60th Anniversary

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a declaration adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948 at Palais de Chaillot, Paris.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Attitudes Towards Homosexuality
Subject: Psychology & Human Behavior
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Missouri Western State University
Year: 1998
Description: The participants in this study were students who volunteered to participate. There were a total of 27 participants who filled out a survey. The questionnaire was composed of two parts. The first part was directed at a person’s gender, religious background, rank in school, sexual preference, and type of area they came from. The second part consisted of questions devised to see how the individual thought of and treated homosexuals with a ranking system of one to five.

Link: http://clearinghouse.missouriwestern.edu/manuscripts/67.asp

Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Is there any difference between white egg shells and brown egg shells?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Chemistry
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2004
Description: White egg shells and brown egg shells were compared in the following parameters: membrane permeability and physical strength.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2004/gawn4e0/public_html/

Monday, December 8, 2008

What Is the Effect of Water Temperature on the Amount of Color in Spirogyra Plants (Algae)?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Botany
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Year: 2000
Description: The purpose of this experiment was to measure the amount of color in five different groups of algae plants (spirogyra) each growing at a different temperature. A vacuum flask was used to filter the plants from the water using a glass fiber filter. A colorimeter measured the amount of color on the clean glass fiber filters.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2000/CarissaH.html

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Will wells located near animal pens be more likely to show fecal contamination than wells that are not near animal pens?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Environmental Sciences
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: None
Affiliation: Batesburg-Leesville High School (BLHS)
Year: 1997
Description: This experiment involved two different testing methods that had completely different procedures. The first test: five 100ml samples of water were taken about two hours before they were taken for testing. A packet of Colilert was added to every 100ml sample and then the samples were incubated for 24 hours at 35 degrees Celsius. The next day the samples were taken out of incubation and examined. The second test was done by coating the bottom of a petri dish with a lactose broth. Then, a thin layer of water was poured over the broth. Any excess water was poured out and the dishes were incubated at 44.5 degrees Celsius for 24 hours. The next day the samples were removed and examined with a dissection microscope (spectroscope).
Link: http://scssi.scetv.org/mims/schools/blhs/science/molly1.htm

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2008

International Day of Disabled Persons (December 3) is an international observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992. It has been celebrated with varying degrees of success around the planet. Typically, the Day's activities are mounted by unpaid volunteers.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Improving Binocular Vision in Stereopsis Impairment Using Optical Devices
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Building Type
Cost: Medium
Awards:
1st place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Calgary Youth Science Fair Gold Medal (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2007
Description: This project proposes a non-surgical solution for improving binocular vision impairment and preventing further deterioration. An optical device was designed using double Porro-prism optical binoculars converging into an objective lens, a configuration promoting binocular image fusion without changing the occipital cortex. Thus, binocular vision is improved by reducing deviation points, assisting the brain in perceiving an improved fused image with greater visual acuity. This increases depth perception and three-dimensional viewing ability, with applications in long term vision therapy.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/full7e2/

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

What type of student is more likely to cheat?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Psychology & Human Behavior
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Missouri Western State University
Year: 1999
Description: This study was conducted to determine if GPA, gender and self perceived academic ability are reliable predictors as to whether a student will cheat. This study also tried to determine how students feel about the students who do cheat. A nine question survey that included four descriptive questions was used. The questions were in the form of a Likert type scale.
Link: http://clearinghouse.missouriwestern.edu/manuscripts/96.asp

Monday, December 1, 2008

World AIDS Day 2008

In 2007, an estimated 33.2 million people lived with the disease worldwide, and it killed an estimated 2.1 million people, including 330,000 children. Over three-quarters of these deaths occurred in sub-Saharan Africa, retarding economic growth and destroying human capital.

Science Fair Project Information
Title: Are Beta Glucan and Echinacea (purple coneflower) safe to administer to AIDS sufferers in third world countries?
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2004
Description: The goal of this project is to prove that echinacea (purple coneflower), along with beta glucan (cultured extract of Baker's Yeast cell wall. It is used as an immunostimulant) are a safe, effective and affordable treatment for stimunlating macrophages (immune system cells) in AIDS patients.

Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2004/munr4s0/public_html/

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Build a Timed Burglar Alarm

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Electronics
Grade level: High / Middle School - Grades 7-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Building Type
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: http://www.electronic-circuits-diagrams.com
Description: This alarm circuit has a 555 timer, so the alarm will reset its self after a certain amount of time that you select. The time is adjustable with a variable resistor in the circuit. The alarm uses a relay which is connected to a siren. The circuit is running on 9V but can range from 4V - 16V.
Link: http://www.electronic-circuits-diagrams.com/alarmsimages/alarmsckt20.shtml

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

The Excess of Cleaning Detergent Left on Clothes after Washing By Different Laundry Detergents

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Chemistry
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2006
Description: Large amounts of washing detergent leftovers are extremely harmful to our body and skin. In this experiment, the leftovers of different laundry detergents (Tide, Sunlight and Extra) are measured by measuring the pH of washing machine water after different washing machine water operation cycles.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/park6l2/

Monday, November 24, 2008

Investigate Color-Blindness

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2005)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2005
Description: This project demonstrates 10 different cases of colorblindness using tests introduced through a detective story.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/choi5e0/public_html/

Investigate Color-Blindness

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2005)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2005
Description: This project demonstrates 10 different cases of colorblindness using tests introduced through a detective story.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/choi5e0/public_html/

Sunday, November 23, 2008

The Human Eye

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2006
Description: Main topics covered by this project: eye anatomy and health, vision tests and fun stuff.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/thog6n2/

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Optimizing Ethanol's Heat Production

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Renewable Energy
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2007
Description: The purpose of this project is to determine whether a mixture of Ethanol and Hydrogen Peroxide is stable, creates a higher amount of energy when combusted, burning is cleaner than octane and to evaluate whether this process is safe.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/park7l2/

Friday, November 21, 2008

Find out what type of liquid (pH) breaks down limestone the most

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Earth Sciences
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2007
Description: In order to discover which liquid causes the most erosion in limestone, equal limestone pieces were immersed into 3 different liquids with different pH: hydrochloric acid, vinegar and water. After liquid evaporation, material mass dissolved in each liquid will be calculated: mass of the limestones before immersion (A ) minus the mass of the rocks after evaporation (B) equals the mass of the residue eroded (C).
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/hill7s2/

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Factors affecting catalases and their effects on the human body

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Biochemistry
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2006
Description: The purpose of this experiment is to find out how different temperatures, pH and the different concentrations of the substrate and enzyme affect the activities of the enzyme catalase.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/cheu6j2/

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

The Sage Grouse

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology
Grade level: Primary School - Grades K-3
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (VSF)
Year: 2007
Description: This project describes the sage grouse, its habitat, adaptations, status in the wild, what people can do to help the sage grouse in its natural habitat and quiz.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/mcke7m2/

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Build Your Own Electric Motor

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Electricity
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Building
Cost: Medium
Awards:
Grand Prize at Dallas Regional Science Fair in 2000
1st place, Texas Junior Academy of Science in 2000.
Affiliation: Dallas Regional Science Fair
Year: 2000
Description: Building instructions for reed switch motor, reed switch motor with transistor, motor on a hall effect switch, motor with optical control.
Link: http://www.simplemotor.com

Monday, November 17, 2008

Electrolysis: Show the dependence of current on the concentration of sodium chloride (salt) in the electrolyte.

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Chemistry
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Year: 2006
Description: When an electrical current passes through a solution of sodium chloride electrolysis occurs. The dependence of current vs. the concentration of sodium chloride in the salty water (electrolyte) was experimentaly tested. The experimental results were explained using the mathematical form of Faraday’s laws of Electrolysis.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/sard6m2/

Sunday, November 16, 2008

Explore the Technology Behind Different Power Sources

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Energy
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Year: 2006
Description: Energy resources described in this study are coal, oil, natural gas, biomass, geothermal, hydroelectric, hydrogen, nuclear, solar, water and wind.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/wong6j2/noflash.html

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Are Free Range Eggs Stronger Than Caged Eggs?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology
Grade level: Primary School - Grades K-3
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Year: 2007
Description: Eggs are put in small plastic lids to hold eggs in place creating a triangle. A pan is placed on top of eggs and weights are placed on the pan until egg cracking sound is heard and until at least one egg breaks.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/grah7c2/

Friday, November 14, 2008

Field and GPS mapping of invasive plants in Calgary, Alberta

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Ecology
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descrptive
Cost: Medium
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2006)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: Field and GPS mapping of non-native smooth brome and creeping thistle over a three-year period documented the invasive nature of these alien plant species in a natural area park in northwest Calgary, Alberta. Digital maps were constructed, demonstrating the urgent need to manage for native biodiversity in rough fescue grasslands.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/cock6r2/

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Determine if boiling water and the use of chlorine will kill coliforms to safe level

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Environmental Sciences
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2005)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: Feline feces were tested for coliforms. Then, the feces samples were treated with boiling water and chlorine. Samples were tested again.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/hold5b0/public_html/

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Which Building Shape Best Withstands an Earthquake?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Engineering
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: An earthquake simulator was created from a pegboard. Toothpicks were used to create a cube, tall rectangle, pyramid and dome. Time of collapse is recorded.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2002/TimS.html

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Measure the slope angle at which different rocks slide one over another (landslide)

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Earth Sciences
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2005)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: A hinged slope enables the change of the angle of the slope. A protractor attached to the base of the slope enables the measurement of the angle of the slope. Different rocks are mounted one onto another and the slope angle is changed until the slide begins in order to simulate a landslide.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/mcph5m0/public_html/index.html

Monday, November 10, 2008

Do some colors absorb more sunlight than others?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Chemistry
Grade level: Primary School - Grades K-3
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Timber Ridge Magnet School
Description: Four blocks, all of the same dimensions, of wood, glass, plastic, and metal were put under a heat lamp and touched, after different time intervals, to see how hot they were. This experiment was repeated with the same blocks painted in different colors.
Link: http://www.collaboratory.nunet.net/timber/scifair/eigthc/15.htm

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Which Treat German Shepherd Dogs Like Best and Whether the Price Matters

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology
Grade level: Primary School - Grades K-3
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: A few dog treats, of different prices, are placed in front of the dog. Record which treat the dog eats first, second, third, and so on. Repeat this experiment at different times of the day and on different days.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/mutl7v2/

Saturday, November 8, 2008

The Effect of Ambient Temperature on Temperature Rise in Enclosed Vehicles

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Engineering
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: American Academy of Pediatrics
Description: In this observational study, temperature rise was measured continuously over a 60-minute period in a dark sedan on 16 different clear sunny days with ambient temperatures ranging from 72 to 96°F. On 2 of these days, additional measurements were made with the windows opened 1.5 inches.
Link: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/116/1/e109

Friday, November 7, 2008

Does Controlled Atmosphere Storage Affect the Malic Acid and Starch Levels in Apples?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Food Science
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards:
Award for Scientific Thought, Mid-Columbia Science Fair (2003)
Discovery Young Science award
Savings bond from Washington State Apple Commission
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: The manipulated variables, in this experiment, were the temperature the apples were stored at and the amount of time they were stored. The responding variable was the amount of malic acid and starch in apples. To measure malic acid a titrater was used and for starch iodine solution.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2003/AlyssaB.html

Thursday, November 6, 2008

How Do Vehicles Affect the pH Properties of Snow?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Environmental Sciences
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: 2nd place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: This project tests the hypothesis that the closer the samples are taken from the road, the lower the pH will be, meaning the samples will be more acidic than basic and vise versa.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/tarr7k2/

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Using Viruses to Kill Cancer

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: High
Awards:
First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2005)
Cancer Assistance Program Award
Ontario Association of Medical Laboratory Award
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description:This experimentation investigated the role of a double-mutant Herpes Simplex Virus, HSV-1 called KM110r, to determine if it is a safe and effective oncolytic virus therapy. Thorough in vitro proliferation assay and morphological analyses proved that KM110r can successfully destroy all cancerous cells under physiological conditions and completely ignore all non-cancerous cells despite induced genetic differentiation. During the course of experimentation, 80,000 cancerous cells were killed while none of the non-cancerous cells were harmed: a therapeutic index of 80,000:0.
Links: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/raso5n0/public_html

Monday, November 3, 2008

Compare the Caffeine Amount in Different Brand Tea Bags

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Food Science
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Batesburg-Leesville High School (BLHS)
Description: Caffeine is extracted by adding a solution of saturated zinc acetate to tea bags placed into a beaker filled with boiling water and filtering it. The difference in the combined weight of the beaker, water and tea bag will be the amount of caffeine in the tea bag.
Links: http://scssi.scetv.org/mims/schools/blhs/science/y01/zacho1.htm

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Will the Citrus Fruit Battery With the Most pH Create the Most Electricity?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Electricity
Grade level: Elementay School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: 2nd palce, Selah Intermediate School (2002)
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: The pH of different grapefruit, orange, lime and lemon fruits is measured by a pH meter. Build home made batteries by sticking a nail and a copper coin into fruit halves. Then use a voltmeter to measure the voltage.
Links: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2004/SamanthaH.html

Saturday, November 1, 2008

The Effect of Temperature on the Growth of Yeast

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Food Science
Grade level: Elementay School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: 2nd palce, Selah Intermediate School (2004)
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: A few bread dough balls were left sitting at 2 °C, 12 °C, 21 °C and 35 °C; diameter of the dough balls was measured with calipers and recorded after 2 and 4 hours.
Links: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2004/SamanthaH.html

Friday, October 31, 2008

What is Bioterrorism?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: This study describes the bacteria, mode of infection, treatment, prevention and symptoms of anthrax and smallpox.
Links:
http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2003/wongd3d/public_html
http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2003/wongd3d/public_html/Bioterrorism_Report.doc

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Will Bacteria Content Increase in a Water Bottle When It Is Not Properly Washed Between Uses?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: In this experiment was compared the bacteria content of washed prior to refilled bottled water to not washed bottles prior of use. The bacteria content in the bottles was also compared according to the number of water refills.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2004/MarisolG.html

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

See if the Size of the Nozzle of a Balloon Affects How Far the Balloon Goes.

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Engineering / Aviation
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/tomi5y0/public_html

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

A Practical Mathematical Function for f(x) With Genetic Algorithms

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Computer Science
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards:
First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2007)
Gold Medal, the Greater Vancouver Regional Science Fair
UBC Computing Science Award
SFU Computing Science Award
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: This project addresses the following problem: Given a set of points on a graph, can a computer accurately find a practical mathematical function through the use of a genetic algorithm without any prior knowledge of what function that set of points may resemble?
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/chin7j2/

Monday, October 27, 2008

The Effect of Projectile Weight (Mass) on Distance Traveled

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Engineering
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: A trebuchet catapult was used to launch projectiles of different masses while angle of catapult was maintained constant.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2006/AveryM.html

Sunday, October 26, 2008

The Trilobites of Manuels River

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology (Prehistoric)
Grade level: Primary School - Grades K-3
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: St. Bonaventure's College
Description: This descriptive project answers the following questions: What is a fossil? What are Trilobites? Are there fossils in Newfoundland?
Link: http://www.k12.nf.ca/stbons/newsevents/20022003/sciencefair/michael.htm

Saturday, October 25, 2008

The Effects of Color on the Brain's Ability to Complete Mathematical and Logical Problems

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Psychology & Human Behavior
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards:
Second place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2003)
First place, Renfrew County Regional Science Fair
First place, Pfizer Canada Minister's Award of Excellence (2003)
Matthew Helfrety Memorial Award
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: The mathematical skills of 87 volunteers were tested by tests copied onto six different colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet. The tests were administered weekly over a course of seven weeks given a time limit of ten minutes. At the end of the experiment the results were graphed, compared and analyzed.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2003/pikec3c/public_html

Friday, October 24, 2008

To Which Flavor Are Ants Most Attracted?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: In this experiment, different flavored pieces of bread were put in different locations of an ant terrarium. The flavours were sweet, sour, salty, bitter and no flavor as control. Every two hours, the number of ants on each flavored piece of bread was counted and recorded.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2000/ElisaB.html

Thursday, October 23, 2008

The Effect of Various Antibiotics on Bacterial Growth

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: In this experiment is tested the ability of a few types of antibiotics (Oxacillin, Penicillin, Gantimicin, Vancomycin, Gatifloxicin) in killing bacteria (E. coli, Suitamonaus, Staphoreaus 1, Staphoreaus 2, and Streptococcus healacta).
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2003/KatlinT.html

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

The Kangaroo Rat

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology
Grade level: Primary School / Kindergarten - Grades K-3
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: First Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair (2005)
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: A study of the adaptations and habitat of the kangaroo rat as well as why its population status is threatened and what humans can do to protect the animal's status; quiz; pictures.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/blac5b0/public_html

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

The World of Turtles and Tortoises

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Zoology
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: The differences and similarities between turtles and tortoises; quiz
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2004/schu4s0/public_html/

Monday, October 20, 2008

Test the Effect of Grapefruit Juice on Anti-Cholesterol Drugs

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Advanced
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: High
Awards: Second Place, Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: There are two portions: an in-vitro experiment and an in-vivo experiment.
In Vitro:
1. Compare the effect of known CYP 3A4 inhibitor itraconazole on the metabolism of pravastatin and simvastatin in human and rat liver microsomes and
2. Study the effect of other cholesterol lowering drugs, such as fenofibrate and niacin, on the metabolism of pravastatin and simvastatin.
In Vivo: Evaluate the effect of grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of statins.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/lauc5c0/public_html

Sunday, October 19, 2008

How Do Diatom Reproduction React to Variable Amounts of Light?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Botany
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards:
Honorable mention at the Greater Vancouver Regional Science Fair
The Cryptozoology Award.
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: A few flasks, each containing diatoms (Odontella longicruris), are exposed to different light conditions for a few days. The color of the diatom culture, measured by a light spectrometer, is related to the number of the diatoms because of the chlorophyll they produce when exposed to light in the photosynthesis process.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2007/thom7h2/

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Comparing the Effectiveness of Furnace Air Filters

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Environmental Sciences
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: Three different types of air filters used in home furnaces were examined. A triple beam balance was used to weigh the unused filters before using them and again after 3 weeks of use. The difference was the amount of particulate collected.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2006/CassidyB.html

Friday, October 17, 2008

Find Out If Air Expands and Contracts When Heat and Cold Are Added

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Physics
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: Put inflated balloons of the same size into a steamed pot and a freezer and compare size before and after.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/auge6a2/

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Investigate the history and physical properties of the Spruce Goose

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Aviation
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Descriptive
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2006/rodd6a2/

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Find Out if Oxygen Free Radicals Have an Effect on Aging

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Batesburg-Leesville High School (BLHS)
Description: Male fruit flies are placed into vials. The control group's food mix contains only water. The experimental groups' food mixtures contains different portions of water and hydrogen peroxide (thus representing oxygen free radicals). Longevity of the flies in each vial is recorded.
Link: http://scssi.scetv.org/mims/schools/blhs/science/y99/marle1.htm

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Which Type of Band-Aid Brand Bandage Sticks the Longest?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Chemistry
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: Place a few eggs in water with adhesive strips of different brands sticked to until bandage falls; record time.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2001/LacyK.html

Monday, October 13, 2008

Which Antacid Can Neutralize The Most Stomach Acid?

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Medicine
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: The experiment consists of a few vials with different types of antacids added to the water. A pH meter is used to show the neutralization effect by counting the number of drops of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) droped into the vials until the pH reaches 7.0.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj99/NicoleSciProj.html

Sunday, October 12, 2008

The Effect of Different pH Water Levels on Coloring Agents in Different Flowers

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Botany
Grade level: High School - Grades 10-12
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: None
Affiliation: Batesburg-Leesville High School (BLHS)
Description: In the experiment petals of each flower were ground in an ethanol water solution using mortar and pestle. The flower solution, at each pH level, was put in the spectrophometer at a starting wavelength of 700nm. The wavelength was decreased to 400nm by multiples of 10nm. A reading was taken and recorded at each wavelength.
Link: http://scssi.scetv.org/mims/schools/blhs/science/y99/leslie1.htm

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Test Different Kinds of Water for pH, Dissolved Oxygen, Nitrate, Phosphates, Coliform Bacteria, Iron and Hardness

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Environmental Sciences
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards:
First place, Avonlea School competition
First place, Fillmore Regional Science Fair
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: Eight samples from different water sources were collected and tested by a water monitoring kit.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2005/kirk5a0/public_html/

Friday, October 10, 2008

The Effect of Acid Rain on the Biomass of Radishes

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Environmental Sciences
Grade level: Elementary School - Grades 4-6
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Low
Awards: None
Affiliation: Selah Intermediate School
Description: Sulfuric acid is added to distilled water to represent different levels of acid rain. The independent variable is the pH level in the water given to the different groups of plants. The dependent variable is the plant growth (mass) of the radishes which is measured by a triple beam balance.
Link: http://www.selah.k12.wa.us/SOAR/SciProj2006/KaitlinB.html

Thursday, October 9, 2008

The Effect of Adding Vitamins and Minerals on Fungi’s Bioluminescence

Science Fair Project Information
Subject: Botany
Grade level: Middle School - Grades 7-9
Academic Level: Ordinary
Project Type: Experimental
Cost: Medium
Awards: 2nd Place at Algoma Regional Rotary Science Fair
Affiliation: Canada Wide Virtual Science Fair
Description: Assessing the potential for the bioluminescent fungi Armillaria mellea and Armillaria ostoyae to become a significant source of light energy.
Link: http://www.virtualsciencefair.org/2004/gree4n0/public_html/