How do I collect my data?  How do I design my project?

Can you help me get testing resources for my project?

Ask a mentor!  Contact mentors@wssef.org for resources and your questions answered.

Yes! We understand that it can be difficult to find a mentor and we do not penalize students who are working on their own.  Some of the best research we have seen at the Fair comes from students who have researched simple problems in new and creative ways! However, you will need to have at least an Adult Sponsor (could be a teacher or a parent/guardian) to go over your project paperwork and insure safe procedures are followed.  Depending on your experimental design, you may be required to have a Designated Supervisor or Qualified Scientist.

Yes!  Working with a professional can open your eyes to current research, laboratory equipment, and valuable advice.  As a student, you will not be penalized if you choose to work on a project under the supervision of a researcher.  However, we encourage students to do the majority of the work and have a strong understanding of the research they are working on.

Yes!  One of the great things about a science fair is that there is room for parent involvement and outside help.  By sharing science experiences, parents, teachers and other mentors demonstrate that learning is an important and enjoyable process. The key is that YOU, the student, are the lead on the project. Adults can offer advice, review forms, help gather materials, assist in constructing the backboard and proofread grammar.  However, the research and overall project should reflect the effort of the student(s).