Here is a typical schedule and timeline for conducting a science fair project:
Week 1 Make sure you understand what you need to do for the science fair project. Ask questions if you”re not certain about any aspect of the assignment.
Find time to use books, encyclopedias, and magazines at the library. Look for a topic that is interesting to you. Keep bibliographic notes on the books and magazine articles where you get your ideas.
Week 2 With your project idea firmly in mind, write the purpose, question, hypothesis, materials needed, and procedures.
Week 3 Gather your necessary equipment and begin your project.
Week 4 Seek advice and help from professionals to refine your project: doctors, nurses, researchers, teachers, librarians, veterinarians.
Week 5 Conduct your experiment and collect data.
Keep careful, written records of results in a notebook. Record the day and time you make observations. Be as specific as you can about the amount, size, and type of materials, plants, or animals you use.
Week 6 Draw conclusions and organize the results of your experiment in chart or graph form.
Week 7 Write your research paper. Include a table of contents, abstract, summary sheet, purpose or hypothesis, step-by-step explanation of your experiment, results, conclusion, and bibliography.
Week 8 Construct your exhibit. Build a backdrop to mount graphs, chart, illustrations, photographs, signs, and summary sheets.
Week 9 Prepare an oral presentation based on your board.
Week 10 Add finishing touches to your project.
Come to the science fair and present your project.