If a Science Fair project is not the right fit for your child/family, consider having them present their work as a non-competitive Science Display. 

The display can represent research on a particular topic or demonstrate something they have been working on.  There is no scientific method requirement, and there is no “judging” element.  Students will have an allotted time to stand by their display and discuss it with attendees.  This is a great opportunity to work on those presentation and verbal skills in a low pressure situation.  

There will be some basic limitations on the displays in consideration of the borrowed facility (for example, no live animals and no explosions).  Other than that, think of it as a Science Fair similar to a Geography Fair or International Fair where a table is available to display an interesting science topic you've explored.

Science Displays must be pre-registered (information will be coming), and there will be a modest fee. Only Cary Homeschoolers and Dayspring Home Educators students are eligible to present Science Displays.

Age categories include:

• Early Elementary(GR. K-2)
• Upper Elementary (GR. 3-5)
• Middle School (GR. 6-8)
• High School (GR. 9-12)

1. Category Descriptions

Select the category for competition that best matches the project. The categories will be used to help the organizer position displays. See below for brief descriptions.

Biological Science:

Human and animal behavior; Social and community relations; Chemistry of life processes; Study of plants, animals, or microorganisms; Study of diseases, and health of humans and animals

Physical Science:

Study of the nature and composition of matter and laws governing it ; Theories, principles, and laws governing energy and the effect of energy on matter. Chemistry.

Earth/Environmental Science:

Geology, mineralogy, physiography, oceanography, meteorology, climatology, astronomy; Study of pollution especially related to the environment

Technology:

Technology projects that directly apply scientific principles to manufacturing and practical uses.

2. Displays

Each participant (project) will be provided with table space for a trifold poster display board. Please indicate if there are special display needs, such as electricity. Please keep in mind the following restrictions -- they are intended to assure safety of all participants and visitors as well as to avoid accidents that could affect the facility.

• • No animals, live insects or bacteria.
• • No hazardous or corrosive chemicals.
• • Water may be used, but only in an enclosed container.
• • “Working” displays are encouraged, but must be safe for the student to operate without parental assistance.
• • Baked goods MAY be displayed.
• • Live plants MAY be displayed.

Please contact Dixie if you have any questions/concerns.

3. The Day of the Science Fair:

Students will set up Science Displays that morning, by 9:00 a.m., and will be assigned a time to be available at their display. Times will be in 30-minute blocks, between 9 and 11:00 a.m.. (More specific information should be available prior to Science Fair Day.) Each student should prepare a 2-3 minute description of their project to share with viewers, and be prepared to answer (gentle) questions.

Students are encouraged to stay to for the open viewing of the Science Fair Projects after judging is completed. This is typically about 11:00 a.m. They are also invited to attend the Awards Ceremony for the Science Fair competition.

Reminder: Science Display participants are not eligible for Science Fair awards.