Sawtooth Science Fair
The Science Fair was started at Sawtooth Elementary as a way to augment science education at the elementary school level (K-5th grade). Kids use the “Scientific Method” to answer a question. The kids must perform an experiment, keep a journal, write a project summary, prepare a display and complete an interview with judges. Over the years participation in this event at Sawtooth has skyrocketed. Students who complete a project are rewarded with a special field trip – to local science- related businesses. In the past we have visited a cheese plant, dairies, a plastic bag manufacturing company, Seastrom Manufacturing, Blip Printers and the Herrett Center. The funding for this event is from donations only – no state funding is used, and volunteers are responsible for organizing and putting on the event. Participation in the Science Fair is voluntary and done outside of school – judging is the only time students have to work on this during school hours. Judges are local scientists who volunteer their time to assess the projects and encourage future scientists. Special awards are given to outstanding projects.
Kids choose their own topics – here are a few examples of this year’s projects:
- How Clean is Magic Valley Water?
- What’s a squirrel’s favorite food?
- Does a band aid hurt less to pull it off quickly or slowly?
- What kind of ski wax (or not) works the best?
- How quickly does a tennis ball lose it’s bounce.
- What makes a cookie stale?
Science Fair Goals
¨ To promote science education at all grades by hands-on exploration of scientific principles through the preparation and presentation of science projects.
¨ To promote understanding of, and creativity in, a scientific method of investigation.
¨ To promote the self-discipline necessary to accomplish the experiment, prepare a display, and write a summary within the given time frame.
¨ To give the students a sense of pride and accomplishment derived from participation in the science fair.
¨ To stimulate and nourish a fond interest in science.
¨ To promote educational links among parents, community, and school.
¨ To foster a lifelong appreciation of scientific processes in preparation for life in an increasingly technological society.
For more information contact: Sawtooth Science Fair Committee Member: Heidi Hawkins 732-6815, hhawkins@csi.edu.