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Reveals the true nature of science.
Science is not just an unalterable collection of
facts in a few subjects but an ongoing process of
discovery encompassing all areas of life. Reading a
science textbook without ever having the opportunity
to "do" science is equivalent to reading English
textbooks but never writing a paper. By working on a
science project, students learn that science is an
active, dynamic field and find that much of the fun
is in the doing.
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Strengthens science process skills.
The ability to identify problems, propose solutions,
interpret data, and draw conclusions are valuable
life-long skills that will benefit every aspect of a
student's life.
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Develops communication skills.
Describing their work to others gives students
valuable experience leading to greater
self-confidence and improved presentation skills.
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Leads to careers in science.
Positive experiences in science activities often
provide the spark for students to take science
classes and pursue careers in science. Science fair
participation is a tremendous tool for correcting
the disproportionately low numbers of females
entering science careers.
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Becomes a vehicle to further academic achievements.
Completing a science project gives the student a
sense of accomplishment and builds self-esteem. It
opens doors to other opportunities, competitions,
scholarships, and college applications. It changes
lives.
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Reinforces the Utah science curriculum.
State science guidelines, National Science Education
Standards and the AAAS "Benchmarks for Science
Literacy" are supported by emphasizing hands-on
science experiences. One of the best ways students
learn is by doing.
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Promotes interdisciplinary learning.
A science project often spans several areas of
science such as botany, mathematics, and statistics.
Even more importantly, all projects also involve
developing skills in English, speech, and art.
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Provides one of the few extra-curricular experiences
in academics.
Science fair gives students the opportunity to excel
and then receive public recognition. Participation
in a science fair is an event that students remember
positively for the remainder of their lives. Science
fair counts.
