Ethan's Science Fair

For the science fair Ethan did an experiment to see which bridge of pencils would hold the most weight.  It was a fun experiment to do.

Here are three bridges, each with three pencils.  There is rope around the test bridge with a bucket tied to it.  (He also tested bridges with 1,2, and 3 pencils in a row.)

Here Ethan is adding more water to the bucket to see which one holds the most water/weight.

He discovered that the pyramid bridge held the most weight.  He typed up his notes and put together his display board with the information. 

 

The day of the science fair he presented his experiment to two judges.  Each student was scored by two judges according to a given rubric.  Ethan received a trophy for being in the top 40 at his school.  He was a little disappointed that he didn't go on to the district science fair, but decided it was okay because he didn't have to present again.

I was asked by the PTA to chair the science fair committee, so I was very involved in the process.   With the help of Cherilyn and Allison I edited the science fair packet that went out to the parents and had it printed and delivered to the teachers.  I helped to recruit judges for the day of the science fair.  The kids liked helping with the treat bags for the judges (and receiving the extras).  After it was over, and throughout the process, I kept notes of what could be done better or how it was successful.  I also rewrote the rubric used by the judges.  I think it is less subject to personal opinion than this year.  The notes were passed on to the PTA for whoever is in charge next year.  It was a fun challenge for me.