THE THIRTY-FOURTH ANNUAL
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
SCIENCE-MATHEMATICS-ENGINEERING FAIR
HIGH SCHOOL HANDBOOK
________________________________
Sponsored by:
Morgan State University
School of Education and Urban Studies
Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
National Society of Black Engineers, Alumni Extension-Region II
Baltimore Metropolitan Alumni Chapter
NASA Goddard Professional Chapter
An Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) Affiliate
Table of Contents
Science-Mathematics-Engineering (SME) Fair History…….…………………….……3
Current Mission …………………………………………………………………………3
Schedule of Events ……………………………………………………………………....4
SME Steering Committee Members .……………………………….……………….…..5
Contact Information …………………………………………………………………….5
Why Complete a SME Fair Project ..…………….………………………………….. 6 -7
Who May Enter ………………………………………………………………………….8
Entry and Exhibition Rules …………………………………………………..……9-10
Student Responsibilities ………………………………………………………………...11
Parent Responsibilities …………………………………………………………………11
Judges …………………………………………………………………………….....11-12
Judging Criteria ……………………………………………………………………12 -13
Getting Started ………………………………………………………………………14-15
Suggested Timeline for Development ………………………………………………16-17
of Research Projects
Typical SME Fair Timeline …………………………………………………………….17
Elements of a Successful Research Project ………………………………………...18-20
Helpful Hints …………………………………………………………………….........21
Presentation to Judges …………………………………………………………………22
Official Entry Forms ……………………………………………………………….23–26
2
Science-Mathematics-Engineering (SME)
Fair History
The first Annual Morgan State University Science Fair was held on May 8, 1981 in the
McKeldin Center Ballroom. The objectives of the first Fair were: to identify and encourage
promising and creative students in science; to provide an opportunity for students to have
practical experience in developing a good science project; to develop a good cooperative
relationship between the Morgan State University Comprehensive Science Education
Department and area Maryland High Schools and to provide an opportunity for Science
Education majors to experience the planning and logistics for organizing and implementing a
Science Fair.
Several schools participated in the first Fair. The Fair was open to students in grades 8
through 12. Junior Division (Grades 8-9) and Senior Division (Grades 10-12) trophies and
certificates were given in the areas of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth and Planetary
Science.
Since 1988, Morgan’s Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
(CEMSE) governs the Fair. The Fair is open to students in grades 6 through 12 Junior Division
(6-8) and Senior Division (9-12) in the categories of Physical Science, Biological Science,
Mathematics and Computer Science, Earth and Environmental Science, Engineering and Team
Projects. Student/Teacher workshops and school visitations are continuously provided for those
in need. The Fair received affiliation with the International Science and Engineering Fair in
1993. Starting in 1999, winners from the Junior Division participate in the National Discovery
Young Scientist Challenge sponsored by Discovery Communications Inc. with Science Services.
In 1996 a Winner’s Corner was established for the exhibition of projects from elementary school
students for recognition only. Every year, since 1993, the top winners and their teachers from the
senior division of the Fair each receive an all expense paid trip to participate in the International
Science and Engineering Fair. The team projects are encouraged to build team cooperation,
research skills and better communication among students.
As an incentive for the students to participate in their respective school SME fair and the
Morgan State SME Fair, an array of prizes and awards including scholarships, trophies,
certificates and monetary funds are given annually.

Current Mission
Identify and encourage promising and creative students in science, mathematics and
engineering

Provide opportunities for students in grades 6-12 to have practical research in developing
a quality science-mathematics-engineering project.

Maintain a good cooperative relationship between science, mathematics and engineering
departments of Morgan State University and Baltimore Area secondary schools.

Provide an opportunity for science, mathematics and engineering majors to experience
the planning and logistics of organizing and coordinating a science-mathematicsengineering fair.
3
Schedule of Events
The Thirty-third Annual Morgan State University Science-Mathematics-Engineering Fair is
being presented in the Hill Field House on March 14-15, 2014.
Event
Thursday
March 13
Exhibitors 5:00 P.M–7:30 P.M.
Set Up
Friday
March 14
7:00 A.M–5:00 P.M.
Judging
Open to Public
Saturday
March 15
9:00 A.M.–12:30 P.M.
10:00 A.M–5:00 P.M.
Awards Banquet
1:00 P.M.–2:00 P.M.
7:00 P.M.
New Student Center
4
Science-Mathematics-Engineering Fair Steering Committee
Dr. Kevin Peters
Morgan State University
Dr. Russell Kelley
Retired, Morgan State University
Dr. Cecelia Wright Brown
University of Baltimore
Ms. Corliss Riddick
Morgan State University
Mrs. Sharon McClain Gibson
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Dr. Anasuya Swamy
Retired, Morgan State University
Mr. John Hires
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Mrs. Willilexia Royal Cox
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Mr. Charles Matthews
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Mr. Douglas Parker
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Mrs. Delores Biggs
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Mrs. Lois S. Waters
Baltimore City Community College
Dr. Gabrielle McLemore
Morgan State University
Ms. Kathryn Dyson
Morgan State University
Ms. Tia Bossiwa
Baltimore City Public Schools
Ms. Camille Hinmon
Baltimore City Public Schools
Mr. Bryan Thomas
Baltimore City Public Schools
Ms. Gloria Hayes
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Ms. Khadijah Mitchell
Graduate Student, Johns Hopkins University
Mr. Marc Martin
Baltimore City Public Schools
Mr. Lydell Henry
Beat the Street
Mr. Marcus Wolfe
Graduate Student, Morgan State University
Ms. Maureen Sullivan
Maryland Science Center
Mr. Luke Anderson
Mollo LLC
Mr. Pete Yancone
Maryland Science Center
Ms. Billie Partlow
Retired, Baltimore City Public Schools
Contact Information
Corliss Riddick
Morgan State University
Phone: 443-885-3134
FAX: 443-885-8234
E-mail:cemse@morgan.edu
5
Why Complete a SME Fair Project?
First
A science fair project is the ultimate answer to the often-asked student question: "Why do I need
to learn this stuff, anyway?"
It integrates, into one functional activity, virtually all of the skills and arts that are usually taught
separately (sometimes not at all or without obvious "purpose") in many schools. When brought
to completion, the project is an amalgamation of reading, writing, spelling, grammar,
mathematics, statistics, ethics, logic, critical thinking, computer science, graphic arts, scientific
methodology, self-learning of one or more technical or specialty fields, and (if the project
qualifies for formal competition) public speaking and defense in front of expert judges. It is,
perhaps, the only educational activity that allows students to teach themselves, to take from the
established information what they need to discover something exciting and new, and to identify
and choose the tools that they need to conduct and conclude their project. When a student
completes a SME fair project, year after year, through junior and senior high school, the SME
fair process yields mature, self-confident, skilled, and competitive young leaders who have
career goals and the preparation, discipline, and drive to attain them.
Second
A SME fair project can be self-validating and exciting because it is not just practice. It involves
real discovery of little known or even unknown information.
It develops personal power of importance in students, where perhaps none or little existed before.
The project usually is based on scientific questions or interests that the students already have,
and allows them to develop the questions independently into formal, testable, solvable problems.
When such studies are undertaken in earnest, the students often become driven by their projects.
Learning the outcome and finding the answer can be an electrifyingly powerful moment of
discovery. It proves to students, and to others, that they were successful and that they did it on
their own! The result? An ordinary student is motivated to become an excellent student, and an
excellent student to become a scholar. Of all the programs that a school might offer a student to
improve self-esteem, it seems that participation in a SME fair is one sure-fire way to build
student confidence, challenge potential, and instill the incredible feeling of independent
achievement that the successful SME fair project provides.
Finally
SME fair projects can pay off in cash and open the doors of academic opportunity.
Well-done projects generally lead to competition and awards at Intel® ISEF-affiliated regional
fairs. First-place winners at regional fairs usually have the opportunity to compete for additional
awards in the Morgan State University Science-Mathematics-Engineering Fair. Top first-place
winners from junior and senior divisions in many fairs are selected as sweepstakes winners and
receive cash awards. Additionally, selected senior sweepstakes winners (the best of the best) go
6
on to compete with other grand prizewinners from throughout the world for substantial cash and
scholarship prizes at the annual Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.
Perhaps most importantly, however, graduating high school students with records of awards for
original research or engineering at the regional fair and beyond, have a distinct advantage over
other college applicants in being considered and accepted by the schools of their choice. This is
because science fair honors rank high among the screening factors used by admissions officers at
most top universities.
Lastly, students who participate in Morgan State University Science-Mathematics-Engineering
Fair have their projects evaluated by top local scientists from research and industry. Participants
whose projects are judged to be worthy of international competition will be judged by the top
scientists of the world. Imagine your student discussing a project with a Nobel Prize winner. The
exposure and self confidence such an opportunity generates cannot be quantified.
The following statement is excerpted, with thanks, from the Greater San Diego Science and
Engineering Fair Web site.
7
Who May Enter
Any student in grades 6-12 enrolled in a school (public, private or parochial) or being home
schooled in Baltimore City with the exception of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute.
Division I
High school students, Grades 9 through 12
Division II
Middle School students, grades 6 through 8
Note to prospective participant
The project must be original and must result from the student’s own interest and research.
I.
General Categories for Project
A.
Physical Science (Chemistry, Physics)
B.
Earth/Planetary Science and Environmental Science
C.
Biological (Life) Science dealing with animal and/or plant life.
D.
Mathematics and Computer Science
E.
Engineering
II.
Team Projects
Teams may consist of up to three (3) members. Each team should appoint a team leader to
coordinate the work and act as the spokesperson. However, each member should be able to serve
as a spokesperson, be fully involved with the project, and be familiar with all aspects of the
project.
Team projects compete against each other in an interdisciplinary category.
The team should submit one abstract. The final work should reflect the coordinated efforts of all
team members and will be evaluated using the same rules and similar judging criteria as the other
categories.
Special note to teams from Grades 9-12
Each team member must submit an Approval Form (1B). However, team members must jointly
submit the Checklist for Adult Sponsor, one abstract, a Team Research Plan (1A), as well as,
other required forms. Full names of all team members must appear on the abstract and other
forms.
Students may receive consultation from parents, teachers and/or mentors.
8
Entry and Exhibition Rules
Individual schools have the responsibility of selecting projects to be exhibited in the Morgan
State University Science-Mathematics-Engineering Fair.
Participants in grades 9-12 must adhere to International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
rules and therefore must submit the Research Plan Approval Form, and Checklist for Adult
Sponsor, with necessary signatures, and any other appropriate form (s) (Qualified Scientist
Form, Designated Supervisor Form, Human Subject Form, Informed consent Form, Vertebrate
Animal Form, or Human Tissue Form) to Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science
Education on or before Monday, February 10, 2014. Projects involving human subjects, non
human vertebrate animals, pathogenic agents (all bacteria, fungi, etc. isolated from the
environment should be considered potentially pathogenic), controlled substances, recombinant
DNA and human or animal tissue require prior approval before research begins. Contact the
Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education at (443) 885-3134 for additional
instructions and forms.
Participants chosen to represent their individual school in the Morgan State ScienceMathematics-Engineering Fair must submit an Official Entry Form to the Center for Excellence
in Mathematics and Science Education on or before Monday, February 10, 2014.
Each participant must submit one copy of the Summary of the Project (Abstract Form 2014) on
or before February 10, 2014. The abstract form is a single page containing:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Title of the Exhibit
What the participant intended to accomplish by the project
Steps taken in the preparation of the project
Conclusions reached. The abstract must be computer generated or typed in the third
person. A second copy of the abstract must be displayed with the project.
All exhibits must be durable and safe. Movable parts must be firmly attached. Where electrical
equipment is used, the display must operate on 110-volt alternating current (AC), single phase.
Each such exhibit must be provided with at least 10 (ten) feet of extension cord with popular
style parallel, or male plug. Battery operated circuits need not be so treated. Live, warm-blooded
animals, plants, dangerous chemicals, open flames, explosives, poisonous reptiles and
arachnids, may not be exhibited. Morgan will not provide facilities for running water, gas or
compressed air for exhibits.
Exhibits may consist of a demonstration model, an experiment, a working mechanism, or of
charts, diagrams, or collections with a scientific objective. These must be no larger than 76 cm
(30 inches) deep (front to back) by 122 cm (48 inches) wide (side to side) and no higher than 274
cm (108 inches) including table thus meeting International Science Fair specifications. No
backing or rear display board of any kind will be provided for the exhibit. Tables at the Fair are
slightly less the 91cm (36 inches) and it is suggested, though not required, that exhibitors
construct displays like a miniature stage affair, with three sides and a floor.
9
The participants will be responsible for setting up and removing his/her display. Neither name of
exhibitor nor name of school shall appear on front of exhibit before or during the judging. A
number and slot will be assigned to each exhibit based upon division, category and order in
which entry blanks are received, for identification prior to the judging.
No Exhibit May Be Dismantled Before 2:00 P.M. Saturday, March 15, 2014.
Individual schools should send all forms to:
Morgan State University
C/O Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
1700 E. Cold Spring Lane
101 Banneker Hall
Baltimore, Maryland 21251-0001.
OFFICIAL ENTRY FORMS MUST BE RECEIVED BY:
Monday, FEBURARY 10, 2014
Participants are to set up projects in the Talmadge Hill Field House on the campus of Morgan
State University between the hours of 5:00 P.M. - 7:30 P.M, Thursday, March 13, 2014 and
7:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. Friday, March 14, 2014.
Viewing by the public will commence at 10:00 A.M., Friday, March 14, 2014. Judging will take
place Saturday, March 15, 2014 from 9:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. The Exhibition Hall will be closed
to everyone with the exception of judges, participants and Science-Mathematics-Engineering
Fair Committee members. Certificates of participation will be awarded to all participants at 1:00
P.M. The Hall will be reopened to the general public from 1:00 P.M. - 2:00 P.M. All Projects
Should Be Left In Place Until 2:00 P.M.
Winners will be announced and prizes awarded at the Awards Banquet for participants, parents
and teachers to be held in the:
Calvin and Tina Tyler Ballroom, New Student Center
at
7:00 P.M.
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Awards
The winners will be awarded trophies and other prizes.
10
Student Responsibilities
1.
2.
Each participant will bear full responsibility for his/her project. (Setting-up/removal).
Each participant must assume full responsibility for his/her own project as to damage or
injury to participant or viewers.
Only students that participate in the Science Fair Judging on Saturday, March 15, 2014
from 8:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. will be invited to attend the Awards Banquet unless, other
arrangements have been made with the Center for Excellence in Mathematics and
Science Education, Morgan State University.
3.
Parent Responsibilities
The STUDENT is the PRIMARY RESEARCHER. His/her role is to:





Choose the topic
Do research
Plan and conduct experiments/demonstrations
Record data
Prepare the report and do artwork or the display
The PARENT has three LESSER roles:



LAB ASSISTANT-help gather materials, assist with construction, and supervise
"dangerous" activities.
CONSULTANT-ask questions, give advice, ask questions, make suggestions, and ask
questions. Ask student to explain his/her reasoning. Do not make decisions, encourage
the student to work it out.
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD-may reject projects on the basis of high cost, lack of
proper research facilities, and so on. Rule on safety issues.
The above statements are excerpted, with thanks, from the Oak School Science Fair Handbook
2001 K-3
Judges
A cadre of noted scientists, mathematicians, engineers and educators serve as judges.
Judges evaluate and focus on:
1.
2.
3.
4.
what the student did in the current year
how well a student followed the scientific methodologies
the detail and accuracy of research as documented in the data book
whether experimental procedures were used in the best possible way rather than
supporting equipment
11
Judges look for well thought-out research. They look at how significant your project is in its
field, how thorough you were, and how much of the experiment thought and design is your own
work.
Judges applaud those students who can speak freely and confidently about their work. They are
not interested in memorized speeches – they simply want to TALK with you about your research
to see if you have a good grasp of your projects from start to finish. Besides asking the obvious
questions, judges often ask questions to test your insight into your projects such as “What was
your role?”, “What didn’t you do?” and “What would be your next step?”
Judging Criteria
A. CREATIVENESS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Individual
Projects
Team
30
25
30
25
30
25
The problem is original or is a unique approach to an
old problem (considering the student’s grade level)
Equipment and materials are used ingeniously
Interpretation of data is appropriate for student’s grade level
Applications of project information shows student’s creative
involvement
Student shows evidence of understanding that unanswered
questions remain
Creativity is evident
B. SCIENTIFIC THOUGHT OR ENGINEERING GOALS
SCIENTIFIC THOUGHT
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The hypothesis is clearly stated and the project is clearly
designed
The project shows depth of study and effort
Project exhibits orderly recording and analysis of data
Sampling techniques and data collection are appropriate
for the problem
Scientific procedures are appropriate and organized
Conclusions formulated are logical, based on the data
collected, and are relevant to the hypothesis
ENGINEERING GOALS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The project has a clear objective relevant to needs of potential
User
Product or process had been tested
Product or process is both workable and feasible economically
and ecologically
Project exhibits orderly recording and analysis of data
Testing procedures are appropriate and organized
Conclusions are logical and based on the data collected
12
C. THOROUGHNESS
1.
2.
3.
D. SKILL
1.
2.
3.
2.
3.
15
12
10
10
--
16
The project notebook is well organized, neat and accurate
The purpose, procedures and conclusions are clearly
outlined and the title accurately reflects the problem
F. TEAMWORK – Team projects only
1.
12
Special skills needed for construction or use of equipment
is evident
Special mathematical, computational or observational skills
are evident
Project is skillfully designed so that it yields valid, reliable,
and accurate data
E. CLARITY
1.
2.
15
The study is complete within the scope of the problem
Scientific literature has been searched
Experiments have been repeated and careful records
have been kept
The tasks and contributions of each team member are clearly
outlined
Each team member’s full involvement with the project and
familiarity with all respects of project evident
Final work reflects the coordinated efforts of all team members
13
Getting Started
1.
Pick Your Topic.
Get an idea of what you want to study. Ideas might come
from hobbies or problems you see that need solutions. Due to limited time and resources, you
may want to study only one or two specific events.
2.
Research Your Topic. Go to the library or internet and learn everything you can on your
topic. Observe related events. Gather existing information on your topic. Look for unexplained
or unexpected results. Also, talk to professionals in the field, write or email companies for
specific information, and obtain or construct needed equipment.
3.
Organize and Theorize. Organize everything you have learned about your topic. At this
point you should narrow down your hypothesis by focusing on a particular idea. Your library
research should help you.
4.
Make a Timetable. Choose a topic that not only interests you, but can be done in the
amount of time you have. Use a calendar to identify important dates. Leave time to fill out the
forms and to review the Research Plan with your Sponsor. Certain projects require more time
because they need prior Scientific Review Committee (SRC) or Instructional Review Board
(IRB) approval. Allow plenty of time to experiment and collect data - even simple experiments
do not always go as you might expect the first time, or even the second time. Also leave time to
write a paper and put together an exhibit.
5.
Plan Your Experiment. Give careful thought to experimental design. Once you have a
feasible project idea, write a research plan. This plan should explain how you will do your
experiment and exactly what it will involve. All students of grades 9-12 participating in the
ISEF and affiliated fairs are required to complete the Checklist for Adult Sponsor; Research
Plan (1A) and Approval Form (1B).
6.
Consult your Adult Sponsor and Get Approvals. You are required to discuss your
research plan with an Adult Sponsor and obtain a signature of approval. In reviewing the
Research Plan (1A) with Research Attachment, your Sponsor and you should determine if
additional forms and /or IRB/SRC prior approvals are needed.
7.
Conduct Your Experiments. During experimentation, keep detailed notes of each and
every experiment, measurement, and observation. Do not rely on your memory. Remember to
change only one variable at a time when experimenting, and make sure to include control
experiments in which none of the variables are changed. Make sure you include sufficient
numbers in both control and experimental groups. A group must have five or more subjects to
be statistically valid.
8.
Examine Your Results. When you complete your experiments, examine and organize
your findings. Did your experiments give you the expected results? Why or why not? Was your
experiment performed with the exact same steps each time? Are there other causes that you had
not considered or observed? Were there errors in your observations? Remember that
14
understanding errors and reporting that a suspected variable did not change the results can be
valuable information. If possible, statistically analyze your data.
9.
Draw Conclusions. Which variables are important? Did you collect enough data? Do
you need to conduct more experimentation? Keep an open mind – never alter results to fit a
theory. If your results do not support your original hypothesis, you still have accomplished
successful scientific research. An experiment is done to prove or disprove a hypothesis.
10.
Method.
Describe in detail the methodology you used to collect data, make
observations, design apparatus, etc. Your report should be detailed enough so that someone
would be able to repeat the experiment from the information in your paper. Include detailed
photographs or drawings of self-designed equipment. Only include this year’s work.
11.
Discussion. The discussion is the essence of your paper. The results and conclusions
should flow smoothly and logically from your data. Be thorough. Allow your readers to see your
train of thought, letting them know exactly what you did. Compare your results with theoretical
values, published data, commonly held beliefs, and/or expected results. Include a discussion of
possible errors. How did the data vary between repeated observations of similar events? How
were your results affected by uncontrolled events? What would you do differently if you
repeated this project? What other experiments should be conducted?
12.
Conclusion. Briefly summarize your results. Be specific, do not generalize. Never
introduce anything in the conclusion that has not already been discussed.
13.
Acknowledgements. You should always credit those who assisted you, including
individuals, businesses, and educational or research institutions.
14.
References/Bibliography.
Your references list should include any documentation that
is not your own (i.e., books, journals articles). See an appropriate reference in your discipline for
format. Fr instance, APA style:
(1)
Journal articles, one author Bekerian, D.D. (1993). In search of the typical eyewitness. American Psychologist, 48.
574-576.
(2)
Reference to an entire book Cone, J.D., and Foster, S.L. (1993. Dissertations and theses from start to finish:
Psychology and related fields. Washington, DC: American Psychology Association.
15
Suggested Timeline for Development of Research Projects
September
____ 1.
____ 2.
____ 3.
Learn rules and regulations
Formulate topic ideas
Demonstrate scientific procedure
October
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
____
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Research topic ideas
Choose a topic
Begin recording bibliography
Plan an outline
Write an introduction
Write a purpose
Present introduction to the review committee
Present purpose to the review committee
Present hypothesis to the review committee
Make project revisions if necessary
November
____
____
____
____
____
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Decide on permanent project
Formulate experimental procedures
Begin researching, testing, and experimentation of project
Correlate written material for research paper
Write abstract
December
____ 1.
____ 2.
Submit draft to the teacher for approval
Make revisions if necessary
January
____
____
____
____
____
____
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Submit final draft to the review committee for revisions
Make revisions if necessary
Type final copy of research paper
Make Draft of display board
Select colors to be used for board
Assemble display board
16
February
____
____
____
____
____
____
___
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
1.
____ 2.
Practice giving presentations
Participate in the mock science fair
Critique individual presentations
Make final preparations for the science-mathematics-engineering fair
Discuss suggestions for next year
Discuss topic ideas for next year
March
Make final preparation for regional science fair
Exhibit in Morgan State University Science-Mathematics-Engineering
Fair
TYPICAL SCIENCE-MATHEMATICS-ENGINEERING (SME) FAIR
TIMELINE
1. Deciding on a project - 1 - 2 weeks
2. Background research - 2 - 3 weeks
3. Developing a hypothesis / designing procedures - 1 - 2 weeks
4. Submit forms for teacher approval - before starting experimentation
5. Experimentation - 4 - 8 weeks
6. Results, conclusions, analysis - 1 - 2 weeks
7. Writing the Report - 1 -2 weeks
8. Building the Display Board - 1 - 2 weeks
17
Elements of a Successful Research Project
1.
Project Data Book
A project data book is your most treasured piece of work. Accurate and detailed notes make a
logical and winning project. Good notes show consistency and thoroughness to the judges, and
will help you when writing your paper.
2.
Abstract
After finishing research and experimentation, you are required to write a (maximum) 250-word,
one-paged (typed only) abstract. An abstract should include the following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
Purpose of the experiment
Procedures used
Data
Conclusion
It may also include any possible research applications or future research. Only minimal reference
to previous work may be included.
Sample Abstract
Effects of Marine Engine Exhaust Water on Algae
Jones, Mary E.
123 Main Street, Hometown, PA 17405
Hometown High School, Hometown, PA.
__________________________________________________________________
This project in its present form is the result of bioassay experimentation on the effects of twocycle marine engine exhaust water on certain green algae.
The initial idea was to determine the toxicity of outboard engine lubricate. Some success with lubricants
eventually led to the formulation of “synthetic” exhaust water as the test substance.
Toxicity was determined by means of the standard bottle or “batch” bioassay technique.
Scenedesmus quadricauda and Ankistrodesmus sp. were used as the test organism. Toxicity was measured in
terms of a decrease in the maximum standing corp. The effective concentration –50% (EC 50) for
Scenedesmus quadricauda was found to be 3.75% exhaust water; for Ankistrodesmus sp. 3.1% exhaust water
using the bottle technique.
Anomalies in growth curves raised the suspicion that evaporation was affecting the results;
therefore, a flow-through system was improved utilizing the chateristics of a device called a Biomonitor. Use
of the Biomonitor lessened the influence of evaporation, and the EC 50 was found to be 1.4% exhaust water
using Ankistrodesmus sp. As the test organism, mixed populations of various algae gave an EC 50 of 1.28 %
exhaust water.
The contributions of this project are twofold. First, the toxicity of two-cycle marine engine exhaust
was found to be considerably greater than reported in the literature (1.4 % vs. 4.2%). Secondly, the benefit of a
flow-through bioassay technique utilizing the Biomonitor was demonstrated.
18
3. Research Paper
A research paper must be displayed along with a project data book, and any necessary
forms or relevant written materials. A research paper helps organize data as well as thoughts. A
good paper includes the following sections:
a.
Title Page. Center the project title, and put your name, address, school, and
grade at the bottom right.
b.
Table of Contents.
Include a page number for the beginning of each section.
c.
Introduction. The introduction sets the scene for your report. The introduction
includes your hypothesis, an explanation of what prompted your research, and
what you hope to achieve.
d.
The Experiment. Describe in detail the methodology used to collect your data
or make your observations. Your report should be detailed enough so that
someone would be able to repeat the experiment from the information in your
paper. Include detailed photographs or drawings of self-designed equipment.
Only include this year’s work.
e.
Discussion. The discussion is the essence of your paper. The results and
conclusions should flow smoothly and logically from your data. Be thorough.
Allow your readers to see your train of thought, letting them know exactly what
you did. Compare your results with theoretical values, published data, commonly
held beliefs, and/or expected results. Include a discussion of possible errors.
How did the data vary between repeated observations of similar events? How
were your results affected by uncontrolled events? What would you do
differently if you repeated this project? What other experiments should be
conducted?
f.
Conclusion. Briefly summarize your results. Be specific, do not generalize.
Never introduce anything in the conclusion that has not already been discussed.
g.
Acknowledgments. You should always credit those who assisted you, including
individuals, businesses, and educational or research institutions. Identify any
financial support or material donations received.
h.
References. Your reference list should include any documentation that is not
your own (i.e., books, journal articles). See an appropriate reference in your
discipline for format.
ex:
Foley, J.D. (1987). Interfaces for Advanced Computing.
Scientific American, 257, 127-135.
19
4.
VISUAL DISPLAY
You want to attract and inform. Make it easy for interested spectators and judges to
assess your study and the results you have obtained. Make the most of your space using clear
and concise displays. Make headings stand out, and draw graphs and diagrams clearly and label
them correctly.
20
Helpful Hints
1.
A Good Title. Your title is an extremely important attention-grabber. A good title should
simply and accurately present your research. The title should make the casual observer want to know
more.
2.
Take Photographs. Many projects involve elements that may not be safely exhibited at the fair,
but are an important part of the project. Since live plants and animals or anything which might be
considered hazardous cannot be displayed, you might want to take photographs of important
parts/phases of your experiment to use in your display.
3.
Be Organized. Make sure your display is logically presented and easy to read. A quick glance
should permit anyone (particularly the judges) to locate quickly the title, the experiment, the results and
conclusions. When you arrange your display, imagine you are seeing it for the first time.
4.
Eye-Catching. Make your display stand out. Use neat, colorful headings, charts, and graphs to
present your project. Home-built equipment, construction paper, and colored markers are excellent for
project displays. Pay special attention to the labeling of graphs, charts, diagrams and tables. Each item
must have a descriptive title. Anyone should be able to understand the visuals without further
explanation.
5.
Correctly Presented and Well Constructed. Be sure to adhere to the size limitations
and safety rules when displaying your project. Display all required forms for your project.
Make sure your display is sturdy, as it will need to hold up for quite a while. Do not hesitate to
ask for advice from the adults if you need it. (Remind them to check the display rules.)
21
Presentation to Judges
This is an important part of your project so take the time to plan and practice the presentation
you will make to the judges. Plan in advance what you want to say but, don’t memorize your
presentation. Write key phrases or ideas on index cards and use them as a reference but, don’t
depend heavily on them.
Here is an approach you may wish to use for making your oral presentation.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Greet the judges and introduce yourself.
Give the title of your project and your grade.
Tell how you became interested in this topic.
Give some background information about the topic.
State the purpose of your investigation.
Discuss your review of literature.
Describe in a step-by-step fashion the procedure you followed for conducting your
investigation. Point to sections of your display and refer to charts, graphs, and
photographs. If you have equipment on display allow the judges to examine it.
Explain the results of your experiment and be sure to discuss controls and variables.
Remember to keep all measurements in metric units.
Identify the conclusion that you could logically draw from the experiment.
Discuss any future plans you may have to continue research or experimentation
related to your topic. Include a few statements about any changes you made in your
scientific approach during your early investigation.
Ask the judges if they have any questions. Remember if you don’t know an answer
say so and indicate you will look into it. If judges insist on asking questions in
unrelated areas, redirect the conversation back to your specific topic.
Thank the judges for their time and any suggestions they may have offered to
improve your project.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Good manners, appropriate dress, and enthusiasm for what your project will help to impress the
judges. Here are some tips:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Wear appropriate dress.
Be polite and practice good manners.
Make good eye contact with your judge and be sure to give each judge your
attention. Don’t just look at one.
Stand up straight and to the side of your exhibit.
Speak with enthusiasm, clarity, and assuredness.
Don’t do anything to distract the judges such as shuffle your feet, chew on gum or
look at the ground.
Relax, smile and have FUN.
22
CEMSE Staff Only
34TH Morgan State University ScienceMathematics-Engineering Fair
OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM 2014
Express Registration
REQUIRED
FORMS
Due date on or before
February 10, 2014 (Monday)
Official Entry Form 2014 (all grades)
Project Information Form (all grades)
Abstract Form (Summary) MUST BE TYPED (all grades)
Checklist for Adult Sponsor/Student Safety Form (grades 9-12 only)
(1A) Research Plan (grades 9-12 only)
(1B) Approval Form (grades 9-12 only)
Send to: Center for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Education
101 Banneker Hall
Morgan State University
1700 E. Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore, Maryland 21251-0001
For more information please call: 443-885-3134
Fax: 443-885-8234
E-mail: cemse@morgan.edu
23
34th Morgan State University ScienceMathematics-Engineering Fair
OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM DUE FEBRUARY 10, 2014
PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE
Individual ____ Team ____
INDIVIDUAL/TEAM INFORMATION
Name: _____________________________________________ Female: ____ Male: ____
Home Address: _____________________________________________ Apt. #________
City: _________________________ State: ___________________ Zip: _____________
Phone: ________________________ Grade: _________________ Age: _____________
SECOND STUDENT
Name: _____________________________________________ Female: ____ Male: ____
Home Address: _____________________________________________ Apt. #________
City: _________________________ State: ___________________ Zip: _____________
Phone: ________________________ Grade: _________________ Age: _____________
THIRD STUDENT
Name: _____________________________________________ Female: ____ Male: ____
Home Address: _____________________________________________ Apt. #________
City: _________________________ State: ___________________ Zip: _____________
Phone: ________________________ Grade: _________________ Age: _____________
SCHOOL/MENTOR INFORMATION
School Name: __________________________________ School Phone: _____________
Teacher Advisor: ________________________________ Phone: ___________________
Scientist/Mathematician Mentor: _____________________________________________
(full name and title)
Mentor Organization: ____________________________________ Phone: ___________
24
PROJECT INFORMATION
DIVISION: (Check one)
____
Senior (9-12)
____
Middle/Junior (6-8)
SUBJECT CATEGORY:
____
Biological Science
____
Earth/Environmental Science and/ or Planetary Science
____
Engineering
____
Mathematics and Computer Science
____
Physical Science (Chemistry, Physics)
____
Team
PROJECT TITLE:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
BRIEF
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Does this project need 110-volt AC electricity?
(Students must provide extension cord.)
_____yes _______no
Do you plan to attend the Awards Banquet?
_____yes _______no
If yes, do you plan to attend with ___1 Parent/Guardian
___2 Parents/Guardians
Each participant is given 1 ticket for participating and 1 ticket for a Parent or Guardian.
Additional Tickets, if available, can be purchased Saturday, March 15, 2014 after 1:00 P.M.
25
Morgan State University Science-Mathematics-Engineering Fair
ABSTRACT FORM 2014
REQUIRED OF ALL PARTICIPANTS
PLEASE TYPE AND RETURN ON OR BEFORE FEBRUARY 10, 2014.
Title of project ___________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Name ____________________________________________________Grade _________
2nd Team Member __________________________________________Grade _________
3rd Team Member ___________________________________________Grade ________
School _________________________________________________________________
Subject Category _________________________________________________________
SUMMARIZE YOUR PROJECT IN 250 WORDS OR LESS
26