Plant and Animal Science Fair Projects (Biology Science Projects Using the Scientific Method)

Children's Literature - Meredith Kiger

This revised and expanded edition of a how-to book for plant and animal science fair projects attempts to guide students through the process of selecting a fair project and understanding and using the scientific method. The often confusing introduction gives a brief discussion of how scientists search for answers to questions using experiments and goes on to describe the scientific method as the accepted form for scientific research. It would have been helpful for beginners if the author had used an example for each step as he explained it, including using some kind of numbering system for each step. The use of graphics brings order to the system and helps those with difficulty find meaning in text. The text goes on to give useful hints in preparing for and conducting the actual fair experience, including when to seek adult help. The remainder of the book gives examples of fair projects in the areas of Biological Diversity of Plants and Animals, Plant and Animal Survival Needs, Behavioral and Physiological Responses of Plants and Animals and Plant and Animal Adaptations with 6 to 8 examples for each. There is quite a variety of experiments with the question, hypothesis, materials and procedures, results, and conclusions listed for each. Occasional color drawings assist understanding. A glossary, list of science supply companies, suggestions for further reading and an index are included. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D.