Science Fair Report (Page 5 of 7) in pdf

VARIABLES

Controls: these are the things you keep the same

Independent Variable: The thing you changed on purpose because you want to see how it affected something else.

Dependent Variable: The thing you are measuring.

Example variables:

Controls: incline of hill, amount of soil, area covered by grass or shrubs

Independent variable: presence of grass or shrubs on soil incline

Dependent variable: amount of soil that eroded

PROCEDURES

The procedures are a detailed, step-by-step set of instructions on how to prepare and carry out your

experiment. These should be written so that the experiment can be recreated by anyone who picks up your

procedures. Write the procedure as you do the steps of a lab. Be very specific; don't assume that the reader knows

how much, how many, or how long.

The Procedures should follow these rules:

1.)

Label each step with a number or letter.

2.)

Write your procedures in a cookbook format.

3.)

Be very specific with quantities, amounts, and the order that things need to be done or completed.

Example of a Procedures / Method list:

1.) Prepare three trays by putting an equal amount of potting soil in each tray. If you are using pans or cookie

sheets, spread a layer of gravel on the bottom of the pan before adding the soil. This will allow for drainage since

you will be watering all three pans while the grass is growing.

2.) Set Tray 1 aside. In Tray 2, cover the soil with a layer of leaves and grass clippings. In Tray 3, sprinkle grass

seed on the top of the soil.

3.) Place the three trays in a place where they are level and have similar light and temperature conditions. (The

temperature must be above 50°F (10°C) for the grass to grow.)

4.) Use the sprinkling can to give each tray the same amount of water. Continue watering all three trays

approximately every 3 days until the grass in Tray 3 is about .5 inches (1.25 centimeters) tall. This may take one

week or longer. You may have to adjust your watering schedule depending on how fast the soil dries. Check the soil

daily to see if it looks and feels moist.

Section 6: Conclusion

Explain fully what you learned from the project.

Describe any problems you may have encountered. Tell what you had to do to correct

them or what you would do if you did this over.

What other investigations (if any) would you like to do as a result of this project.

Student Name

Title

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