Project Ideas (Grade 4 – 6)

Check out these websites:

howtosmile – Their “Curated Topics” list has many activities suitable for young ages. While they don’t say “science fair projects,” almost every activity would make a good science fair project for the elementary age group.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

A project that helps ensure food security, sustainability or competitiveness in agriculture, fisheries or food production.

How different types of soil affect plant growth

Did you know that different types of soil can affect how plants grow? Soil varies in texture, such as sandy, clayey, or loamy. Sandy soil drains water quickly, while clayey soil holds water for longer periods. Loamy soil, with a balanced mix, is ideal for most plants. Understanding these soil types helps us create the best conditions for plants to thrive!

Possible ideas

Compare the growth of plants in sandy soil versus clayey soil.
Investigate how different soil textures (sandy, loamy, clayey) affect how long water is held and plant growth.
Examine the impact of soil pH (acidic, neutral, alkaline) on the growth of specific plants.
Study the effects of adding organic matter to different soil types and its impact on plant growth.
Analyze the influence of soil compaction on plant growth by comparing compacted soil versus loose soil.

Follow the life cycle of pollinating bugs

Pollinating bugs like butterflies and ladybugs are not only beautiful but also important for agriculture and food production. Through their role in pollination, these insects help plants produce fruits and seeds. As they visit flowers for nectar, they transfer pollen, enabling crops such as fruits and vegetables to reproduce. Understanding the life cycle of butterflies and ladybugs helps us appreciate their crucial contribution to agriculture and the food we rely on.

Possible topics include:

Observe how different bugs, like bees, butterflies, and other insects, move pollen between flowers and learn how it helps plants grow.
Learn about how butterflies and ladybugs grow and change, and what they need to survive, which helps them be good pollinators.
Investigate the effects of habitat quality on butterfly or ladybug populations

The importance of sunlight on plant growth

Plants need the sun to grow big and strong. Sunlight helps them make food and gives them energy. It’s like their superpower! Without enough sunlight, plants can become weak and not grow well. This is really important for farmers and the food we eat. In your science project, you can explore how sunlight affects plant growth and learn why it’s so important for the food we depend on.

Possible topics include:

Find out how different amounts of sunlight affect plant growth by placing plants in different areas with varying levels of light.
Explore how coloured lights (like red, blue, and green) help plants grow and compare them to natural sunlight.
Investigate the difference between plants grown indoors and those grown outdoors to see how sunlight affects their growth.

How seasons determine the variety of fresh produce

Seasons play a significant role in determining which fruits and vegetables are available for us to enjoy. Different seasons bring changes in temperature, sunlight, and weather patterns, which affect plant growth and development. Certain fruits and vegetables thrive in specific seasons, while others may not grow as well or are not available at all. Farmers use the knowledge of seasonal cycles to plan and plant their crops accordingly. By exploring the concept of seasons and how they influence the availability of different fruits and vegetables, you will gain a deeper understanding of the connection between nature’s cycles and the food we have on our plates.

Possible topics include:

Explore and track the availability of different fruits and vegetables through different seasons.
Create a mini garden and grow plants that thrive in specific seasons to learn about their growth patterns.
Compare the taste and appearance of fruits and vegetables in different seasons to understand the benefits of eating them when they’re in season.
Investigate how temperature and sunlight affect the growth of plants by conducting simple experiments using different light and temperature conditions.
Interview local farmers or gardeners to learn about how they plan their planting schedules based on the seasons.

The role of coastal wetlands in supporting fish populations

Coastal wetlands, like marshes and estuaries, are vital for fish populations and have a connection to recreation and food. These wetlands act as nurseries and provide food and shelter for young fish, helping them grow and survive. As the fish mature, they become part of the larger marine ecosystem. Commercial and recreational fishermen depend on these fish for food and their livelihood. Investigating the importance of coastal wetlands in supporting fish populations will help us understand their crucial role in sustaining both the environment and the availability of fish for agriculture and food production.

Possible topics include:

Discover how coastal wetlands help fish grow by observing and comparing fish populations in areas with and without wetlands.
Create a mini wetland habitat and observe how it provides food and shelter for young fish, helping them survive and grow.
Investigate the connection between the health of wetlands, the availability of fish, and how it impacts the livelihood of fishermen.
Use pictures or visuals to show how coastal wetlands are important for both fish and the enjoyment of recreational activities like fishing.

Curiosity and Ingenuity

A project that helps improve our understanding or addresses a problem in an area of STEM not covered by the other challenges.

Simon says… act like a plant.

Biomimicry is about studying how animals and plants can inspire us to create new and improved designs for things we use every day. For example, scientists and engineers have looked at things like how spiders make webs and how geckos can climb walls without falling. They used these ideas to create Velcro, which is a fastening system with tiny hooks like those on a plant’s surface. Another example is bullet trains, which are high-speed trains that were designed to be more streamlined and efficient, inspired by the shape and speed of birds and fish. By learning from nature, we can come up with smart solutions to make our everyday products better and more efficient.

Possible topics include:

Research and present some of the ways designs from nature have inspired human-made designs.
Find a design in nature you find very interesting and come up ideas to transfer that design to the human world.
Pick one example of biomimicry and explain all the ways the human-made example copied the natural example, and why.

Feeling blue? Green with envy?

Did you know that colours can affect how we feel and how well we work? Different colours can make us feel different things. Some colours make us feel energetic and excited, like red and orange. Others, like blue and green, can make us feel calm and relaxed. Scientists have discovered that the colours around us can even change our mood and how well we pay attention and learn. If we study how different colours affect our mood and work, we can learn how to create spaces where we feel good and can be more productive.

Possible topics include:

Study how different colours make us focus and work better by having people do tasks in different coloured spaces and seeing how well they do.
Explore how colours can help us think creatively and solve problems by using different coloured materials or workspaces and seeing if it makes a difference.
Compare how different colours make us feel calm or stressed by measuring things like heart rate while being around different colours.

Phases of the moon

The moon goes through different phases as it orbits around the Earth. You might have noticed that sometimes the moon looks like a bright circle, while other times it appears as a crescent or even disappears completely. These changes in the moon’s appearance are called phases. The phases of the moon depend on its position in relation to the sun and Earth. As the moon orbits the Earth, we see different amounts of sunlight reflecting off its surface, which makes it appear differently. By charting the moon’s phases over a month and creating a visual display, you’ll not only understand how the moon changes but also learn about the scientific reasons behind these changes and how the moon’s position affects its appearance.

Possible topics include:

Make a model of the moon’s phases using paper plates, or a similar material, and show others how the moon changes its appearance.
Compare how the moon looks at different times of the day and night over a month to find out if there’s a connection between its position in the sky and the phases it goes through.

Hot and cold and hot and cold and hot and… phew… cold and…

Thermal fatigue is a fascinating topic that involves the repeated heating and cooling of a material, which can cause it to become weaker over time. Just like how our bodies get tired after repeated exercise, materials can also become tired from repeated changes in temperature. When a material is heated, it expands, and when it cools down, it contracts or gets smaller. These constant changes in size and shape can stress the material, leading to cracks, deformations, or other problems. By studying thermal fatigue, we can learn how to make materials that are more resistant to these changes and last longer.

Possible topics include:

Investigate the effects of freeze-thaw cycles on the integrity of different materials by creating cracks or small crevices and filling them with water, then subjecting the samples to repeated cycles of freezing and thawing.

Chilly birds

Did you know that birds have clever ways to stay warm in chilly weather? When it gets cold, birds have special adaptations to help them keep their bodies warm. Some birds, like penguins, have a thick layer of fat called blubber that acts as insulation to keep them warm in icy environments. Others have feathers that provide excellent insulation by trapping warm air close to their bodies. Birds might also puff up their feathers to create a layer of air that acts as a natural blanket. Some birds even shiver to generate heat when it’s really cold. By investigating the different methods birds use to stay warm in cold climates, you’ll discover the amazing strategies these feathered creatures have evolved to brave the winter cold.

Possible topics include:

Experiment with different materials (such as feathers, cotton balls, and fabric) to see which ones provide better insulation and help keep you warm, just like birds do.
Measure and compare the temperature changes inside a puffed-up feather pillow, a regular pillow, and a blanket to understand how feather puffing can help retain heat.
Explore how different materials, like bubble wrap, foam, and fabric, can act as insulation to keep small water containers warm, simulating the thickness and efficiency of blubber in cold-climate birds.
Observe and record how your body heats up during activities like jumping, running, and shivering, and compare the results to understand the impact of shivering on heat production in birds.

Digital Technology

A project that helps improve our quality of life or transforms existing products and services through digital devices, methods or systems.

Analyze app user interfaces

User interfaces refer to the way humans interact with digital devices, like apps or websites, to accomplish tasks or access information. They are like the “face” of these digital tools, determining how easy and enjoyable it is for people to use them. User interfaces are designed with specific user needs in mind. Designers make choices about button placement, colours, fonts, and overall layout to create an interface that is intuitive, visually appealing, and functional. By investigating and comparing different user interfaces, you can discover how these design choices affect user experience. You can analyze things like how easy it is to navigate, find information, or perform tasks on different apps or websites. This will help you understand how digital technology strives to meet user needs and how good design plays a vital role in creating enjoyable and user-friendly digital experiences.

Possible topics include:

Explore the impact of different button placements on user experience in mobile apps.
Explore the impact of font styles and sizes on readability and user engagement by designing and conducting user tests with different fonts to determine which ones are most effective.
Analyze the accessibility features of various user interfaces and their impact on inclusivity, focusing on how features like screen readers, captions, or high contrast options enhance usability for individuals with disabilities.
Investigate the influence of layout and organization on user experience by comparing websites or apps with different interface structures to determine which designs are most intuitive and user-friendly.

Study how children use digital technology for communication

Digital technology has transformed the way we communicate and interact with others. It includes devices like smartphones, tablets, computers, and apps or websites that allow us to connect with friends, family, and even people from around the world. By conducting a survey, you can gather information and insights about how children in your school or community use digital technology for communication and social interactions. This can include things like messaging apps, social media platforms, video calls, online games, or even sharing photos and videos. Understanding how children are using digital technology to connect with others can help identify trends, preferences, and potential impacts on their social lives. Through your survey, you can gain valuable knowledge about the role of digital technology in shaping communication patterns and social interactions.

Possible topics include:

Survey your peers to understand their preferred methods of communication with friends and family using digital technology.
Conduct a survey to explore the impact of social media on the social lives of children in your school or community.
Investigate how online gaming affects communication and collaboration among children by conducting a survey and analyzing the results.
Survey children in your community to understand their experiences with video calls and the role they play in maintaining social connections.

Teach online safety and responsible internet use

Digital technology has opened up exciting opportunities for learning, communication, and entertainment. However, it is important to navigate the online world safely and responsibly. Online safety refers to practices and precautions taken to protect personal information, avoid cyberbullying, and prevent online threats. Responsible internet usage involves being mindful of our behavior, treating others with respect, and being aware of the consequences of our actions online. By creating a multimedia presentation or video, you can help raise awareness among your peers and the community about the importance of online safety and responsible internet usage. You can highlight key tips, strategies, and guidelines that promote a positive and secure online experience, ensuring that digital technology is used in a way that protects everyone’s well-being.

Possible topics include:

Create a fun and interactive presentation to teach your friends about the importance of keeping personal information safe while using digital devices.
Design a video that showcases positive online behaviors, like being kind, respectful, and not sharing personal information with strangers.
Create a project that focuses on the importance of being a good friend online and how to prevent cyberbullying by using kind words and reporting any hurtful behavior.
Produce a video that helps young learners understand the difference between real and fake information on the internet, using simple examples and colourful visuals.
Develop a multimedia presentation that encourages young children to use social media under adult supervision and to only interact with people they know in real life.

Simple circuits and electrical conductivity

Digital technology relies on the principles of electronics, which involves the study of electrical circuits. Circuits are pathways that allow electricity to flow, powering devices like smartphones, computers, and more. Conductive materials, such as copper wires or certain metals, enable the movement of electrical current through a circuit. By designing and building a simple circuit using these conductive materials, you can explore the fundamentals of electronics and electrical conductivity. This hands-on project will help you understand how electricity flows and how components like batteries, switches, and light bulbs work together to create a functional circuit. As you delve into this project, you’ll gain insight into the foundational concepts that underpin the exciting world of digital technology.

Possible topics include:

Design and build a circuit to understand how different materials, such as aluminum foil or paperclips, affect electrical conductivity.
Investigate the relationship between battery voltage and the brightness of a light bulb in a circuit of your own design.
Build a circuit using switches and LEDs to understand how they control the flow of electricity and create different lighting effects.

Map Wi-Fi signal strength

Wi-Fi signals are invisible waves that enable us to connect to the internet wirelessly. However, these signals can vary in strength depending on things like distance, obstacles, and interference. A Wi-Fi analyzer app that can run on your phone can help you measure and map the signal strength in different areas of your home or school. This will allow you to identify areas where the Wi-Fi signal is weak or unreliable. By understanding the causes of weak signal areas, such as walls, distance from the router, or interference from other devices, you can take steps to improve Wi-Fi coverage and ensure a strong and stable connection. This project provides an opportunity to explore how technology can help us diagnose and solve digital connectivity issues, enhancing our experience with digital devices and the internet.

Possible topics include:

Use a Wi-Fi signal strength app to find the best spot in your home for your tablet or computer to get a strong and fast internet connection.
Explore how different objects in your house, like walls and furniture, can affect the strength of the Wi-Fi signal using a fun and colourful signal mapping activity.
Investigate how certain devices, like microwaves or cordless phones, can make the Wi-Fi signal weaker by setting up simple experiments and observing the changes in signal strength.
Design a project that focuses on improving Wi-Fi coverage in different areas of your home by using objects like aluminum foil or mirrors to reflect and strengthen the signal.

Disease and Illness

A project that helps enhance our diagnosis, treatment or understanding of disease, or the management of physical or mental illness.

Diet and healthy teeth

Our dietary choices, such as eating excessive sugary foods and acidic drinks, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid from sugars and carbohydrates, causing enamel breakdown and cavities. By observing and recording the effects of different food and drink choices on tooth substitutes like eggshells or chalk, we can simulate the impact on teeth and understand the importance of making healthy choices to prevent dental diseases.

Possible topics include:

See how different sugary foods affect tooth decay by watching and keeping track of what happens to tooth substitutes like eggshells or chalk.
Find out how acidic drinks can harm teeth by doing an experiment with tooth substitutes and seeing what happens.
Study if different ways of taking care of our teeth, like brushing or using mouthwash, can stop dental diseases. Use tooth substitutes and write down what you observe.

Track sleeping patterns

Getting enough sleep is essential for staying healthy and feeling our best. When we don’t get enough sleep, it can make us feel tired, affect our ability to concentrate, and even make us more likely to get sick. By tracking sleep patterns and measuring changes in energy levels and concentration throughout the day, you can investigate how getting enough sleep contributes to staying healthy. You will learn how important sleep is for your overall health and well-being, and why it’s essential to have good sleep habits.

Possible topics include:

Find out how different amounts of sleep affect how energetic and focused we feel by tracking sleep patterns of yourself and others and checking how everyone feel during the day.
Study if having a consistent sleep schedule helps us stay healthy by comparing the energy levels and focus of people with regular sleep patterns and those with irregular sleep patterns.
Explore if not getting enough sleep makes us more likely to get sick by tracking sleep patterns and comparing how often people with good sleep habits and those with bad sleep habits get sick.
Investigate if having a bedtime routine helps us sleep better and stay healthier by comparing the energy levels and focus of people who follow bedtime routines and those who don’t.
Find out if taking short naps during the day helps us feel more energetic and focused by checking how yourself or others feel before and after a nap.

Effective hand washing

Proper handwashing is crucial for keeping ourselves and others healthy. Our hands come into contact with numerous germs throughout the day, which can cause illnesses if not properly cleaned. Washing hands with soap is highly effective in removing germs and preventing the spread of diseases. Soap acts as a powerful weapon against germs by breaking down their protective layers and washing them away.

Possible topics include:

Explore the effects of different handwashing durations on the removal of “germs” represented by glitter particles by comparing the outcomes of washing hands for different lengths of time (e.g., 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds).
Investigate the effectiveness of different handwashing techniques in removing “germs” represented by glitter particles.

Yeast vs. antifungal treatments

Understanding how antifungal treatments work in treating infections is important for fighting diseases caused by fungi. Fungi can cause infections on our skin, nails, and other parts of our body. Antifungal medications are special medicines that stop the growth of these fungi and help us get better. By studying the effects of antifungal treatments on yeast, which is a type of fungus, you can see how these treatments work. This project will help you learn about how we fight fungal infections and keep ourselves healthy.

Possible topics include:

Find out which treatments work best to stop the growth of yeast, a type of fungus, by testing different antifungal medications or natural remedies.
Explore if there are any negative effects on yeast when exposed to different amounts or lengths of time with antifungal medications.
Investigate if yeast can become resistant to antifungal treatments by exposing them to increasing amounts of medication and observing changes in growth.
See if combining different antifungal medications or natural remedies has a stronger effect on stopping yeast growth.

Demonstrate the spread of germs

It’s important to know how germs spread to keep ourselves healthy and prevent diseases. Germs are tiny things like bacteria and viruses that can make us sick, like the common cold. They can spread when we touch others or objects that have germs on them, or when someone coughs or sneezes near us. By using a special powder or lotion that glows in the dark to represent germs, you can see how they spread when people touch things or interact with each other. This experiment will show you why it’s important to wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, and take other steps to stop the spread of germs and stay healthy.

Possible topics include:

Find out how germs spread by using a special glowing powder or lotion and observing how it spreads when people touch objects or interact with each other.
Explore which hygiene practices, like washing hands and covering coughs and sneezes, are most effective in stopping the spread of germs by comparing how the glowing powder or lotion spreads under different scenarios.
Study how different surfaces can spread germs by analyzing how the glowing powder or lotion transfers from things like doorknobs, countertops, or toys.
Investigate how well washing hands can remove the glowing powder or lotion, representing germs, by comparing how far it spreads before and after washing hands.
Explore how keeping a certain distance from others can reduce the spread of germs by analyzing how the glowing powder or lotion spreads when people stand at different distances from each other.

Energy

A project that helps improve our use of current energy sources, enables the transition to alternative energy sources, or reduces our energy footprint.

Testing different types of insulation

Did you know that a lot of the energy we use to heat our homes and buildings can escape through the walls and windows? That’s where insulation comes in! Insulation is a special material that helps trap heat inside and keeps cold air out. It’s like giving our homes a cozy blanket. By conducting experiments with insulated containers, we can see which materials are better at reducing heat loss. The goal is to find the most effective insulation material that will help us save energy and keep our homes warm without using too much heat. This project will help us understand how different materials can make a big difference in conserving energy and keeping us comfortable.

Possible topics include:

Compare the effectiveness of different insulation materials by measuring temperature changes in insulated containers over time.
Investigate how thickness affects the insulation properties of different materials by measuring temperature changes in insulated containers of varying thickness.
Explore the impact of different insulation methods, such as adding layers or using reflective materials, on reducing heat loss in insulated containers.
Investigate the influence of colours on insulation by comparing temperature changes in insulated containers with different colour insulating materials.

The energy efficiency of household items

The appliances we use every day, like refrigerators, televisions, and computers, consume a lot of energy. By investigating the energy efficiency of different household appliances, we can learn which ones use less energy and help reduce our energy consumption. Making smart choices about our appliances can also save money on electricity bills! This project will allow us to identify ways to be more mindful of our energy usage in our daily routines, making a positive impact on both the environment and our wallets.

Possible topics include:

Investigate the impact of standby power usage in appliances by measuring the electricity consumed when appliances are not in active use.
Analyze the effect of using power-saving settings on electronic devices, such as TVs or computers, to determine the energy savings achieved.
Analyze the energy usage of appliances over time and calculate the financial savings achieved by using energy-efficient options, highlighting the long-term benefits of energy conservation.

Capturing the power of water

Water has an amazing power to create energy! Throughout history, people have harnessed the energy of flowing water to do work, like grinding flour or generating electricity. This energy is called hydropower. By creating a mini waterwheel, we can explore how moving water can generate energy. As the water flows, it pushes the waterwheel, and that spinning motion can be used to do tasks or even create electricity. This project will help us understand how water power works and how we can use it as a renewable source of energy, contributing to a cleaner environment.

Possible topics include:

Explore the efficiency of various waterwheel designs by constructing different shapes and sizes and measuring their energy-generation capabilities.
Build a mini dam using sand or clay in a plastic container and explore how storing water at a higher level can create potential energy.
Design and construct a small prototype of a watermill to understand how water power can be harnessed for grinding or lifting objects.

Home energy conservation strategies

Energy conservation is all about being mindful of how we use and save energy. Every time we flip a light switch or adjust the temperature on our thermostat, we’re using or conserving energy. By implementing simple strategies like turning off lights when not in use, using natural lighting from the sun, or adjusting thermostat settings to use less heating or cooling, we can make a big difference in conserving energy. These actions not only save money on electricity bills but also help to protect our planet by reducing the amount of energy we consume. This project will allow us to explore different energy conservation techniques and understand how our small actions can add up to make a significant impact on energy usage and sustainability.

Possible topics include:

Examine how your home uses energy and create a plan to lower it.
Measure energy saved when using sunlight instead of electric lights during the day.
Measure energy use and temperature changes when adjusting thermostat settings in your home.
Explore the effects of lowering the thermostat and using personal heating devices to stay comfortable in cold places.

Using the heat of the sun

The sun is an incredible source of energy and gives us warmth and light every day. Did you know that we can use the sun’s energy to provide heat? This energy is called solar energy, and it can be harnessed in various ways. By conducting an experiment to see how sunlight can heat different materials, such as black and white paper, we can understand how solar energy can be absorbed and transformed into heat energy. This project will help us explore the amazing power of the sun and how we can use solar energy to provide heat, which is not only environmentally friendly but also a renewable source of energy.

Possible topics include:

Compare the temperature changes of black and white materials exposed to sunlight to investigate how different colours absorb and retain solar heat.
Design a solar cooker using reflective materials and measure its effectiveness in harnessing solar energy to heat food.
Design and build a solar water heater prototype to evaluate its ability to use solar energy for providing warm water.

Environment and Climate Change

A project that helps ensure the quality of water, air, soil or the diversity of living things, or manages the impact of climate change.

Pollution and plant growth

Plants play a vital role in our environment and are impacted by different types of pollution that can affect their growth and health. Pollution can come in different forms, such as air pollution from car emissions or industrial activities, water pollution from chemicals or waste, and soil pollution from harmful substances. These pollutants can have negative effects on plants, including reduced growth, wilting leaves, and even plant diseases. Studying the effects of pollution on plants helps us understand the impact of pollution on the environment and the importance of clean air, water, and soil for plant survival. By learning about these effects, we can work towards finding solutions to reduce pollution and create a healthier environment for plants and all living organisms.

Possible topics include:

Learn how dirty air affects plants by growing plants near car exhaust or factories, and see which ones grow better and look healthier.
Find out how dirty water affects plants by watering plants with dirty water and clean water, and look for changes in how fast they grow and how healthy they are.
Explore how bright lights at night affect plants by growing plants with different amounts of light at night, and see if the different light levels affect how they grow.
Investigate what loud noises do to plants by exposing plants to different levels of noise, and see if it changes how fast they grow.

Deforestation and local biodiversity

Deforestation is the process of clearing or removing trees from an area. It has a significant impact on biodiversity, which refers to the variety of plant and animal species in an ecosystem. When forests are cut down, the habitats of many species are destroyed, leading to a loss of biodiversity. This loss can disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems, as different species depend on each other for food, shelter, and other needs. The destruction of forests also contributes to climate change because trees help absorb carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that traps heat in our atmosphere. By studying the impact of deforestation on local biodiversity, we can better understand the importance of preserving forests to protect wildlife, maintain ecosystem health, and slow climate change.

Possible topics include:

Learn about how cutting down forests affects local birds by comparing the different kinds and numbers of birds in places with and without forests and see how losing their forest homes impacts these birds.
Study how having trees and plants helps bugs by comparing the different kinds and amounts of bugs in places with different amounts of forest cutting.
Find out how forests protect the ground from washing away by doing experiments that imitate rain on different types of land, comparing how much soil gets washed away in places where trees have been cut down versus places with trees, and understand how this affects soil quality and farming.

Plastic in the water

Plastic pollution is a big problem for the environment, especially in our rivers, lakes, and oceans. When plastic bottles, bags, and tiny bits called microplastics end up in the water, they can hurt the animals and plants that live there. Sometimes, sea animals eat the plastic by mistake or get tangled in it, and it can make them sick or even die. Plastic pollution is also bad for the climate because making and throwing away plastic creates pollution and uses up a lot of energy. By learning about how plastic hurts our water habitats, we can figure out ways to use less plastic and keep the animals and plants safe.

Possible topics include:

Study different ways, like using special barriers or tools, to remove plastic trash from water and see if they can help make the water cleaner and protect aquatic life.
Explore how using materials that can easily break down, like bioplastics or natural things, can help reduce the amount of plastic pollution in water and whether we can manage these materials properly.
Investigate easy and useful methods to decrease plastic pollution in water, like encouraging people to use bags or bottles that can be used many times, and see how much less plastic waste can be created by doing these things.

Oil in the water

Oil spills are accidents where large amounts of oil are released into water. This can have severe consequences for the environment, as oil is toxic to many living organisms. Cleaning up an oil spill is a complex task that often requires specialized equipment and techniques. The absorption capacity of different materials, such as sponges, feathers, or hair, in absorbing oil can be investigated through this topic. Understanding how different materials absorb oil can help inform the development of more effective cleaning methods, which can ultimately aid in minimizing the damage caused by oil spills and contribute to environmental conservation efforts.

Possible topics include:

Explore the effectiveness of various materials, such as straw, hay, or sawdust, in absorbing oil spills and determine which material has the highest absorption capacity.
Explore how different things, like how warm or thick the oil is, affect how well materials can soak up the oil in a spill cleanup.
Explore the impact of the size or shape of the oil-absorbing materials, such as shredded paper versus whole paper towels, on their absorption efficiency in cleaning up oil spills.

Filtering water

Access to clean drinking water is crucial for our well-being, but unfortunately, many people lack it. Water filters are devices that help remove impurities and improve water quality. By building a homemade water filter, you’ll learn about the importance of water filtration in removing particles and improving clarity.

Possible topics include:

Experiment with different materials, such as sand, gravel, and activated charcoal, to build a homemade water filter and compare their effectiveness in improving water quality.
Study the effect of the length of time it takes water to move through a filter to see if that has any effect on clarity or taste.
Explore the potential of biofiltration by adding live aquatic plants or beneficial bacteria to your homemade water filter and analyzing their effect on water quality.
Investigate the effectiveness of different pre-filtering methods, such as using a fabric mesh or coffee filter to remove larger debris, before water reaches your homemade water filter.

Health and Wellness

A project that helps prevent disease or promotes physical, social, emotional, spiritual, environmental, occupational, or intellectual wellbeing.

The benefits of healthy eating

Eating nutritious meals contributes to our overall health and well-being. Healthy food choices provide the energy and focus our bodies need to function well. Comparing students who eat nutritious meals with those who eat unhealthy snacks can help us understand how food choices impact energy levels and concentration, highlighting the importance of making healthy choices for our well-being.

Possible topics include:

Compare the effects of different breakfast options, such as oatmeal, cereal, or toast, on energy levels and concentration throughout the morning.
Investigate the impact of including a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in daily meals on overall energy levels and focus.
Study the effects of drinking water versus sugary drinks on hydration levels, energy, and thinking abilities.
Investigate the effects of different after-school snacks, like carrots and hummus or cookies, on energy levels during homework time.

The effects of screen time on sleep

Excessive screen time, especially before bed, can negatively affect sleep patterns and overall well-being. The blue light emitted by screens disrupts our natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and reducing sleep quality. Engaging in stimulating activities before bed can increase alertness. By comparing the sleep quality of students who limit screen time before bed with those who do not, we can understand how screens impact sleep and emphasize the importance of balancing screen usage for better overall health.

Possible topics include:

Compare the sleep quality and duration of students who avoid screens before bed with those who use screens, to see how screen time affects sleep.
Study how doing relaxing activities before bed, like reading or listening to calm music, compared to using screens, affects sleep quality and feeling awake in the morning.
Investigate how different types of screens, like smartphones, tablets, or laptops, affect sleep quality and how people feel in general.
Study how wearing blue light-blocking glasses or using screen filters can help reduce the bad effects of screens on sleep patterns and how people feel overall.

The impact of music on your mood

Music has a powerful effect on our emotions and well-being. Different types of music can make us feel happy, sad, excited, or calm. Research suggests that listening to music can also have physical effects on our body, such as regulating our heart rate and blood pressure. By investigating the impact of music on mood and relaxation in your project, you can measure how different genres of music affect these body responses. Understanding how music influences our body can teach us more about its potential to promote relaxation and overall health and wellness.

Possible topics include:

See how different kinds of music, like classical, rock, or jazz, affect heart rate and blood pressure in people.
Study how calming music with nature sounds, like rain or birdsong, can help reduce stress and make people feel better overall.
Find out how making a playlist of favorite songs for each person can change their emotions and help them relax.
Explore how doing activities together, like singing or playing instruments in a group, can make people’s mood, friendships, and relaxation better.

Does helping make you healthier?

Helping others by volunteering makes us feel good and brings our community closer together. When we do kind things for others, it can make us happy and give us a special sense of purpose. By talking to students who volunteer and finding out how it makes them feel, we can learn more about the benefits of helping others and being part of a caring community.

Possible topics include:

Compare how it feels to volunteer alone versus volunteering with others, to see which way is better for emotions and friendships.
Study how students’ feelings about helping others and being part of a caring community change after they join a volunteer program or do an activity to help others.
Talk to students who volunteer and learn how it makes them happy and gives them a sense of purpose.

Pet therapy to the rescue

Spending time with animals, known as pet therapy, can be good for children’s feelings and social skills. Research shows that being with pets like dogs, cats, or even fish can make kids happier, reduce stress, and help them feel calm. By pet therapy, we can learn more about how they can make children feel good and be healthy.

Possible topics include:

See how being with different pets, like dogs, cats, or fish, affects how happy and calm children feel, and if it helps reduce stress.
Study how pet therapy helps make children less stressed and feel more calm.
Explore how observing or interacting with virtual pets, like watching videos or using apps, affects how children feel and how they interact with others.
Study if having animals in classrooms makes children more interested, motivated, and happier overall.

Natural Resources

A project that helps ensure the sustainable management, use, reuse or recycling of Earth’s finite or renewable natural resources.

Water conservation

Water is a precious resource on Earth, and there are different ways we can conserve it. Some ways to save water include collecting rainwater and using water-efficient fixtures. Can you think of other ways to save water? Just how much water can be saved using all the different options. Researching this topic can help us protect the Earth’s water resources and ensure we have enough water for the future.

Possible topics include:

See how using mulch or compost in gardens helps keep the soil moist and reduces how much water evaporates.
Look into the advantages of reusing water from washing dishes or laundry for things like watering plants.
Find out how using special irrigation methods like drip irrigation or soaker hoses affects how plants grow and how much water is needed.

Replacing traditional materials with materials that are more renewable

Get ready to learn about amazing materials that can help our planet! Some things we use, like plastic or things made from fossil fuels, are not good for our environment. But there are special materials like bamboo and hemp that we can use instead. These materials grow quickly and can be used to make things like furniture and packaging. By using these special materials, we can help protect our planet and make sure we have enough for the future.

Possible topics include:

See if bamboo lasts long enough, and is strong enough, for building and compare it to materials like wood.
Look into whether bamboo utensils that can be thrown away break down more easily compared to plastic ones.
Find out if using hemp fibers instead of other materials is good for making clothes that are comfy and long-lasting.
See how well corn-based fuel powers engines compared to gasoline and check if it makes emissions better or worse.

Composting

Let’s explore the amazing world of composting! Composting is a special process that helps us make less trash and turns garbage into something great for the Earth. Consider experimenting with different things like temperature, water, and the mix of ingredients to make composting faster and better. By doing this, we’re helping make the soil healthier and making plants grow stronger. Composting is like magic that turns waste into gold for our gardens and farms. Let’s be composting superstars and make our world a greener and more sustainable place!

Possible topics include:

See if using worms (vermicomposting) helps composting and compare it to regular ways of composting.
Look into how different composting methods, like piling it up outside, using a bin, or using a tumbler, affect how long it takes to make usable compost.
Find out how much less garbage we make by composting and compare it to how we usually get rid of trash, like throwing it in the landfill.
Study how hot or cold temperatures in composting affect how quickly things break down.

Waste decomposition

Delve into the captivating world of waste decomposition and its impact on natural resources! Explore how different types of waste break down in different types of environments over time. This topic is fascinating because it highlights the importance of proper waste management and sustainability, as it allows us to conserve precious natural resources, reduce pollution, and promote a healthier planet for future generations.

Possible topics include:

See how fast things like paper, plastic, and food waste break down in different conditions.
Look into how different ways of dealing with waste, like composting, using landfills, or recycling, affect how waste breaks down and the gases it releases.
Find out how packaging materials made from corn or potatoes break down compared to regular packaging.
Study how things like temperature, water, and air affect how quickly waste breaks down.

Dig into mining

Get ready to dig into the fascinating world of mining! Mining is the process of extracting valuable minerals and resources from the Earth’s crust. It’s like a big treasure hunt where we search for gold, silver, coal, and other important materials we use every day. Mining is closely connected to natural resources because it helps us access the minerals, metals, and energy sources needed to build homes, make cars, generate electricity, and even create our favorite toys. However, it’s important to remember that mining can also have an impact on the environment, so we need to find ways to balance our resource needs with protecting our planet.

Possible topics include:

See how different ways of mining, like digging underground or in big open holes, affect the environment around them and compare what’s good and bad about each way.
Look into why it’s important to use minerals and metals over again instead of digging up new ones, and see how it can help us mine less.
Find out how mining affects communities, like their health, if they have to move, or if it changes their money situation.