4th grade science fair projects with hypothesis

4th Grade Science Fair Projects

• Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
• B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College

Great 4th-grade science fair projects involve answering a question, solving a problem, or testing a hypothesis. Usually, a teacher or parent helps work out the hypothesis and design the project. Fourth graders have a good understanding of scientific concepts, but they may need help with the scientific method and organizing a poster or presentation. The key to developing a successful project is finding an idea that is interesting to a 4th grader.

Experiment Ideas

The best experiments usually begin with a question to which you don't know the answer. Once you've formulated a question, you can design a simple experiment to help figure out the answer:

• Do cockroaches have a preference for direction? Catch and release cockroaches. Which way do they go? Is there a common trend or not? You can try this project with ants or other crawling insects as well.
• Do colored ice cubes melt at the same rate as clear ice cubes? Add food coloring to an ice cube tray and compare how long the colored cubes take to melt compared to the regular ones.
• Does magnetism travel through all materials? Put different materials between a magnet and metal. Do they affect how strongly the magnet is attracted to the metal? If so, do they all affect the magnetic field to the same degree?
• Do all crayon colors last the same? Draw a really long line with one color, then draw the same length of line with another color. Are both crayons the same length?
• What is the effect of microwaving seeds on their germination rate? Test seeds that sprout quickly, like radish seeds, and different microwave times, such as 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, one minute. Use a control (no microwave) treatment for comparison.
• Will seeds germinate if you soak them in a liquid other than water? You can try milk, juice, vinegar, and other common household liquids. Alternatively, you could see if plants will grow if they are "watered" with liquids other than water.
• Make a simple homemade windmill. What is the best number of blades for the windmill?
• How much salt (or sugar) can a plant tolerate? Water plants with a different solution of salt or sugar. How high of a concentration can the plant tolerate? A related question would be to see if plants can survive if they are watered with soapy water such as leftover dishwater.
• Do birds have a preference for birdhouse material? In other words, do they seem to care if the birdhouse is made of wood or plastic or metal?
• Do worms react when they are exposed to light? Do they react differently when they are exposed to different colors of light?
• Do ants prefer different types of sugar? Test using table sugar, honey, maple syrup , and molasses.
• Can you taste the difference between foods that contain fat and fat-free versions of the same product?
• Compare the water filtration rate of different brands of coffee filters. Take one cup of liquid and time how long it takes to pass through the filter. Do the different filters affect the flavor of the coffee?
• Do white candles and colored candles burn at the same rate?
• Write messages using different types of invisible ink . Which was the most invisible? Which method produced a message that was easy to read after it was revealed?
• 5th Grade Science Fair Projects
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• Grade School Science Fair Project Ideas
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• Science Fair Project Ideas
• High School Science Fair Projects
• Science Fair Project Ideas for 12th Graders
• Kindergarten Science Projects
• How to Do a Science Fair Project

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50 Exciting 4th Grade Science Projects and Experiments

Did you know you can make plastic from milk?

Nothing gets kids more excited for science than hands-on experiments! Watch your 4th grade science students’ eyes light up when they try some of these activities. You’ll find physics, biology, engineering, chemistry, and more. These projects are easy to set up and really help drive the learning home. Get ready for some science fun!

To help you find the right 4th grade science projects and activities, we’ve rated them all based on difficulty and materials:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much any time
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

4th Grade Science Fair Projects

4th grade stem challenge science projects, 4th grade motion and energy science activities.

• More 4th Grade Science Projects and Experiments

These 4th grade experiments also work well as science fair projects. Try changing up the variables to turn it into a real experiment, then form a hypothesis and find out what happens.

Blow unpoppable bubbles

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

A soap bubble you can hold in your hand? It’s true! A little glycerin makes the soap bubble layers stronger, so you can even toss them gently from person to person.

Learn more: Unpoppable Bubbles Experiment at Learning Resources

Grow crystal names

No list of 4th grade science projects would be complete without crystals! Kids of all ages love growing crystals, making this an ideal way to learn about supersaturated solutions. The classic experiment gets a new twist when you have kids shape pipe cleaners into their own names first.

Learn more: Crystal Letters at Playdough to Plato

Grow bacteria in petri dishes

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Your students will truly feel like scientists when they perform this classic experiment. They’ll prep the dishes with agar, swab different surfaces, and see what bacteria they grow. It’s gross science, but it’s also easy and impressive.

Learn more: Growing Bacteria at Steve Spangler Science

See coastal erosion in action

Here’s a cool experiment to include in your unit on oceans. Build a miniature coastline, then see how wave action erodes the shore.

Learn more: Erosion Experiment at Little Bins for Little Hands

Erupt a lemon volcano

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

Early chemistry experiments with acids and bases are always a lot of fun. This one uses the natural acids of lemon juice and adds a little food coloring to up the wow factor.

Learn more: Lemon Volcano at STEAM Powered Family

Sink and float to explore density

Adding items like salt or sugar to water changes its density, as does the temperature itself. Turn this into a 4th grade science fair project by experimenting with different solutions and forming hypotheses about the results.

Learn more: Salt Water Density at Science Kiddo

Discover a density rainbow

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Colorful, simple, and impressive: It’s the trifecta of 4th grade science experiments! Wow your students by layering colored sugar water as you learn about density, adhesion, and cohesion.

Transform milk into plastic

Plastic seems incredibly modern, but people have been making casein plastic from milk for centuries. In this 4th grade science project, students experiment to create the formula for the best milk plastic. They’ll be amazed at the results!

Simulate an earthquake

The ground under our feet may feel solid, but an earthquake changes that pretty quickly. Use Jell-O to simulate the Earth’s crust, then see if you can build an earthquake-proof structure for a practical and fascinating 4th grade science fair project.

Learn more: Earthquake Simulation at Teaching Science

Test Sharpie solubility

Find out if Sharpie markers are really permanent with this 4th grade science project that uses the scientific method to explore solutes and solvents.

Learn more: Sharpie Solubility at Around the Kampfire

Find out if mood rings really work

Apply the rigors of the scientific method to mood rings ! Find out what makes mood rings change color, then see if they really reflect a person’s mood.

Learn more: Mood Rings Validity Test at Education.com

Create a new plant or animal

Kids will really get into this project, indulging their creativity as they invent a plant or animal that’s never been seen before. They’ll need to be able to explain the biology behind it all, though, making this an in-depth project you can tailor to any class.

Learn more: Create an Organism at I Love 2 Teach

Investigate decomposition

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Yup, it’s gross … so kids will love it! Seal food items in a plastic bag and experiment to see what factors affect their decomposition, helped along by a heaping dose of mold.

Learn more: Decomposition at Mystery Science

Assemble a lung model

With just a few supplies including balloons and a plastic bottle, you can make an impressive working model of human lungs. This makes a very cool 4th grade science fair project.

Explore the causes of tooth decay

They hear it from their parents all the time, but this experiment will prove to your students once and for all what can happen to their teeth when exposed to different drinks such as soda and milk. This is one of those classic 4th grade science fair projects every kid should try.

For students who love to tinker, STEM challenges can spark incredible 4th grade science fair projects. Here are some of our favorites for this age group.

Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster

STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws . ( Get more 4th grade STEM challenges here. )

Learn more: Drinking Straw Roller Coaster at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

Make a wigglebot

Who knew electricity could be so adorable? Explore the science behind batteries and motors by creating a simple “wigglebot.” Experiment with weights to throw the motor off balance and create fun designs.

Learn more: Wigglebot at Research Parent

Construct a working flashlight

You’ll only need a few supplies to guide your students in building their own LED flashlights. They’ll learn how electricity travels and the way circuits work. The slideshow available through the link makes this lesson a breeze for teachers too.

Learn more: DIY Flashlight at Mystery Science

Build a hovercraft

It’s not exactly the same model the military uses, but this simple hovercraft is a lot easier to build. An old CD and a balloon help demonstrate air pressure and friction in this fun 4th grade science experiment.

Learn more: DIY Hovercraft at Education.com

Create a smartphone projector

No projector in your classroom yet? No problem! Have your students help you construct one for your smartphone using a cardboard box and large magnifying glass . They’ll learn about convex lenses and how the brain processes images too.

Learn more: DIY Smartphone Projector at The STEM Laboratory

Set up a pulley system

The science of machines never fails to fascinate kids. In this experiment, they’ll design their own pulley system to make it easier to lift an object.

Learn more: DIY Pulley at 123 Homeschool 4 Me

Design a working elevator

Engineering activities make for amazing hands-on learning. Challenge your 4th grade students to build an elevator that can safely lift a certain amount of weight.

Make a model seismometer

Explore the science of seismology and learn how scientists study earthquakes and their effects. This model seismometer is easy to build and fun to experiment with.

Learn more: Model Seismometer at Science Sparks

Conduct an egg drop

Here’s one more classic to add to our list of 4th grade science experiments: the egg drop! The great thing about this project is that kids can do it at any age, with different materials and heights to mix it up. Hit the link below to get an egg drop project designed just for 4th graders.

Learn more: Egg Drop Challenge Ideas

Demonstrate Newton’s laws of motion with balloon rockets

Who doesn’t love balloon rockets?! Your students will have a blast(off) displaying Newton’s third law of motion while learning about physics.

Many 4th grade science standards include units on energy and motion. These energy science activities offer cool hands-on ways to spice up your classroom lessons.

Flick marbles to learn transfer of energy

This experiment is a bit of a thinker: What will happen when one moving marble hits several stationary marbles sitting in a row? Flick the first marble and find out!

Learn more: Marble Energy Transfer at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

See energy transfer in action with sports balls

Place a tennis ball on top of a basketball and bounce them together to see how energy transfers from one object to another. This one is very easy, and kids will love seeing how high they can get the balls to bounce!

Go an on energy scavenger hunt

Emphasize the fact that energy is all around us in one form or another with this easy, free printable energy science activity. For a more advanced version, help students identify each kind of energy (kinetic, stored, heat, etc.) they find.

Learn more: Energy Scavenger Hunt at The Science Penguin

See a heat-powered windmill demonstrate convection

Heat rises, and its interaction with cooler air creates convection currents. Find out how we can put convection to work for us with this 4th grade science craft project.

Capture waves in a bottle

Here’s a quick and easy way to show wave action in a no-mess way. You don’t need to add a little ship to the bottle, but it does make it more fun!

Learn more: Waves in a Bottle at What I Have Learned Teaching

Assemble a wave machine

Turn this one into a class cooperative activity, or try it as a science fair project idea. Either way, it’s an incredibly fascinating way to demonstrate the energy science of waves.

Use a Slinky to demonstrate types of waves

A Slinky is more than just a toy—it’s also a terrific science manipulative! Use it to see waves in motion, both longitudinal and transverse.

Watch gravity beads prove Newton’s laws

You’ll need a loooooooong string of beads for this experiment. Make your own by taping dollar-store strings together, or buy a long bead garland . Pile them in a cup and get the beads going; it’s fascinating to watch inertia and gravity at work.

Learn more: Gravity Beads at Teach Beside Me

Spin marble tops to learn about inertia

Glue together marbles in a variety of pyramidal patterns to form tops, then form hypotheses about which will spin best. Afterwards, kids will have fun new toys to play with!

Learn more: Marble Tops at KidsActivities.com

Visualize the second law of motion with soda cans

Newton’s second law, concerning acceleration, force, and mass, can be a little hard to understand. This easy 4th grade science demo makes it a little easier to visualize.

More 4th Grade Science Projects and Activities

Use these cool science experiments to encourage a love of science, at home or in the classroom!

Measure a magnet’s attraction force

Fourth grade science students already know that magnets attract metal objects. In this experiment, they’ll measure to see how close a magnet needs to be to an object for the attraction to work. Mix things up with different sizes of magnets and objects of various weights.

Learn more: Magnet Measurements at Ashleigh’s Education Journey

See light refraction in action

This seems more like a magic trick, but we promise it’s science! Make colors seem to appear and disappear, change numbers into letters, and more.

Learn more: Light Refraction at Ronyes Tech

“Draw” on water with dry-erase marker

This is another one of those mind-blowing science demos that kids will want to try over and over again. Draw on a shallow bowl or plate with dry-erase markers , then slowly add water. The marker (which is insoluble in water) will float to the top!

Paint with sunscreen

Prove that sunscreen really does provide protection from harmful UV rays. Turn this into a full-blown experiment by trying different SPFs or comparing it to other creams or lotions without SPF.

Learn more: Paint With Sunscreen at Team Cartwright

Become human sundials

Choose a sunny day and grab some sidewalk chalk—your students are about to become sundials! They’ll practice measuring skills and learn about the movement of the sun across the sky.

Learn more: Human Sundial at Rhythms of Play

Mine for chocolate chips

If you’re learning about mineral resources, this quick hands-on activity is an interesting way to explore the effects of mining. Kids have two minutes to find as many chocolate chips as they can in a cookie. Will they smash it up and destroy it entirely? Pick them out one by one? This experiment can lead to intriguing discussions.

Learn more: Mining for Chocolate Chips at Sarah’s STEM Stuff

Assemble an edible DNA model

Use licorice sticks, four different-colored candies or fruits, and toothpicks to build an edible strand of DNA. Learn about chemical bonds and the helix shape, then eat your creation!

Learn more: Edible DNA Model at wikiHow

Layer an edible soil model

Digging in the dirt is fun, but it’s even more fun when you can eat the dirt when you’re finished! Create edible soil-layer models, complete with gummy worms, for a simple earth science project. ( Find more edible science projects here. )

Learn more: Edible Soil Layers at Super Teacher Blog

Turn a penny green

Experiment with simple chemical reactions as you turn pennies green using vinegar. (Don’t forget to tell students that the Statue of Liberty is green for this very same reason!)

Learn more: Penny Reactions at Buggy and Buddy

Use marshmallows to explore Boyle’s law

Seeing Boyle’s law (which relates pressure and volume of gasses) in action makes it a little easier to understand and remember. This simple 4th grade science experiment uses marshmallows to make a great visual.

Learn more: Boyle’s Law at Hojo’s Teaching Adventures

Form ocean currents

Learning about oceanography? Demonstrate how ocean currents form using warm and cold water (and a few plastic sea creatures for extra fun!).

Learn more: Ocean Currents at Life Over C’s

Understand the impact of non-renewable resources

This is a neat Earth Day activity . Discuss the differences between renewable and non-renewable resources, then have your class form “companies” to “mine” non-renewable resources. As they compete, they’ll see how quickly the resources are used. It’s a great tie-in to energy conservation discussions.

Learn more: Non-Renewable Resources at The Owl Teacher

Explore blood components

Use simple kitchen supplies to create a jar full of “blood” that includes plasma, platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. (You can even snack on the blood cells along the way!)

Learn more: Blood Model at Almost Supermom

Create cool colors with candy

Learn about diffusion in the sweetest way! Grab a bag of Skittles for this quick and easy 4th grade science project.

Wow them with glowing water

Your students will ooh and aah at the result of this exploratory way to show phosphors in action with a black light, different types of water, and a highlighter. The results of this experiment might surprise both you and your students!

Learn more: Glowing Water Experiment at Cool Science Experiments Headquarters

Keep the STEM excitement going with these 25 Fantastic Free 4th Grade Math Games .

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50 Fantastic 5th Grade Science Projects, Experiments, and Activities

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Is your 4th grader getting ready for his/her first science fair? Fear not, we have rounded up a list of 25 great fourth grade science fair ideas to get you started! Remember, the whole point of a science fair is for your child to learn about science in a hands-on way, so resist the temptation to “help” too much. Plus we’ve deliberately chosen easy projects that your fourth grader should be able to do with minimal supervision or help from an adult.

In this post, we’ve assembled 25 easy science fair project ideas for 4th grade. We link each project description to its original source, where you can get more information and step-by-step instructions.

Volcano Science

Learn all about volcanoes, then make one of your own!

Recommended for Grades 4.

Source: www.scienceprojectlab.com

When life gives you lemons, make a battery!

Lemon Power is a fascinating experiment that you can attempt to duplicate with other fruit. Which fruit makes the best battery? Experiment and find out!

Recommended for Grades 4-5.

Source: www.kidsactivitiesblog.com

A Science Fair Project on Tooth Decay by Jennifer Elrod

Doing an experiment on tooth decay is both beneficial and interesting. It only requires a few inexpensive materials and a week’s worth of observation and record keeping. The experiment requires no work after the initial setup.

Source: www.ehow.com

Homemade Lava Lamp by Alexa Bach McElrone

This project takes about 2 hours to complete the experiment and the write-up. Kids will get to explore the relationship between oil and water in terms of density as well as hydrophilic/hydrophobic compounds.

Source: http://www.education.com

How the Amount of Light Affects Germination and Growth.

The goal of the project is to find out how different lighting conditions affect seeds germination and growth. This article will give you the step by step procedure for this project.

Growing Bacteria in Petri Dishes by Steve Spangler

A Petri dish prepared with nutrient agar (a seaweed derivative with beef nutrients) is an ideal food source for the bacteria you’ll be growing. Collect samples from around the house or classroom and record the results for the one with the most bacteria.

Source: www.stevespanglerscience.com

Bridge Project by Sarah Benton

This project explores the basic physics of bridges. The goal is that the student will develop an understanding through experimentation of which shapes are the most structurally strong, and that many factors are taken into account in engineering and building.

Source: www.education.com

Paper Airplane Science Fair Project

Create your own hypothesis about paper airplanes, then start your experiment. This article gives you all of the information you need.

Source: www.easy-science-fair-projects.net

Barometer Science Project

Make your own barometer and then use it to test weather conditions on a dry day, a rainy day, a cloudy day, etc.

Source: www.hubpages.com

How Do Antacids Work?

In this activity, learners explore the chemical reaction between water and effervescent antacid tablets. This hands-on activity models how a material can act differently when it’s nanometer-sized. Learners compare the reaction rate of an effervescent antacid tablet that is broken in half with one that is broken into many pieces.

Source: www.howtosmile.org

Gummy Bear Osmosis

Do Gummy Bears dissolve in water? In vinegar? In liquid soap? Test your hypothesis on a variety of liquids and find out.

Source: www.homeschool.com

Is Your Dog’s Mouth Cleaner than Your Mouth?

Is it a myth or fact that a dog’s mouth has less germs that a human’s mouth? Follow these simply instructions and test for yourself.

Does Mint Actually Cool Things Down? By Jennifer Penn-Chiu

Mint-flavored gum, breath fresheners, and hard candies often advertise that mint has a cooling effect, and use images of frost and ice to demonstrate this sensation. But is this sensation a result of the mint actually lowering temperatures?

Which Food Will Rot First?

This example tests the rotting of 4 different foods, but your scientist can test as many different types of food as they can imagine.

Source: www.notimeforflashcards.com

Helmet Crash Test by Steve Spangler

Not only will your little scientist gain a better appreciation for using a helmet, she can also learn more about the science behind it. Try testing different size melons and different height drops.

Source: www.parenting.com

Can Magnets Affect the Growth Process of Radish?

In this experiment, your scientist will determine whether magnets make radish plants grow faster or slower.

Source: www.buzzle.com

Playground Teeter-Totter

The goal of this project is to create a compound machine using pulleys and levers that would be able to lift a Barbie doll up and down by pulling a string by the player. A common problem on the playground is that you sometimes can’t find another person to go on the teeter totter with you.

Recommended for Grades 4-6.

Source: www.projects.juliantrubin.com

Growing a “Mold Garden”

The goal of this project is to grow different mold species on different kind of substrates to find out if the same bread mold species will grow on all of them. Do all mold species have the same taste and preferences?!

Recommended for Grades 4-5

Source; www.scienceprojectlab.com

Making a Simple Sundial and Testing Its Accuracy

Learn how to make a sundial and then test its accuracy with a series of experiments.

Recommended for Grades 4-6

Source: www.explorable.com

A Pint Pot Planet

This experiment will demonstrate the water cycle and test different hypotheses on rainfall and the water cycle.

Source: www.raisingsparks.com

Build and Test a Paper Bridge

This project helps you discover how to create a strong bridge using just paper. Instructions also offer some additional parameters to add into the experiment.

Recommended for grades 4-5

Source: www.teacherstryscience.org

Paper Airplane Experiment

Experiment to find the best design for a paper airplane

Source: ScienceFairMath

Use the Energy in a Peanut to Heat Water

Just about everything has potential energy stored in it. The problem is releasing that energy to be able to do some work.

A tiny peanut contains stored chemical energy. When we eat them, the stored energy is converted by our bodies so we can do work. We can also use the energy in a peanut to heat a container of water.

Recommended for grades 4-6

Source: www.energyquest.ca.gov

Oil Spill Experiment

This experiment will demonstrate the detrimental effects of oil spills to marine life

Make Your Own Microscope with Water

Make a simple microscope using water and take a closer look at the world around you.

The lens you create with water works like a microscope or magnifying glass, allowing you to see objects in much greater detail than if you were just looking with the naked eye.

Source:  www.sciencekids.co.nz

All Science Fair Projects

1000 science fair projects with complete instructions.

74 Science Projects for 4th Graders

Looking for science projects for 4th graders? Our fourth grade science experiments are engaging, fun and educational, making them a great starting point to inspire a love of science.

4th Grade Science Project FAQ

What are some easy 4th grade science fair projects.

Explore these fascinating 4th grade science experiments that are not only easy to do but also make science fun! Get ready to be wowed while discovering important scientific concepts!

Sinking Through Water

Egg with Vinegar

Does Milk Help Plants Grow?

Magic Milk Painting

Breakfast and School Performance

Plant Growth and Water

Sparkling Rainbow Crystal

Plastic Milk

Does Dog Saliva Kill Bacteria?

Super Hero Egg Shells

Science fair project details right above the FAQ!

What is the best 4th grade science fair project ever?

We love the Plastic Milk science project for 4th graders. Turning milk into plastic may seem like a magic trick, but it's a classic experiment that demonstrates how heat and acid can make milk plastic-like! Young scientists will learn about the precipitation of solids and the chemical reaction between acids and bases from this cool experiment! Check out the videos to see how to make lego figures or glue from this science experiment!

Check out more Best Science Fair Projects →

What are some cool 4th grade science projects?

Get ready to be amazed by these super cool fourth grade science experiments! Choose a science experiment that catches your interest, and with just a few simple materials, you'll discover how awesome and fun science can be!

Create a Tornado in a Bottle

Electrifying Lemon Battery

Making Oobleck: Liquid or Solid?

Egg Drop Project

Colors of Skittles Experiment

Cloud in a Bottle

Science fair project details at the top of the page.

What are 5 testable questions for 4th grade?

A testable question is a question that we can answer through a science experiment. To do this, we do a control science experiment, then we change one thing in the experiment to see how it affects the result. This is how we can discover the answer to our question!

Explore science projects with these testable questions for fourth graders (find the projects at the top of this page):

What makes a cloud form?

Can drink and food taste different just by changing its color?

Does the color of light affect photosynthesis?

Does temperature affect seed sprouting?

What makes popcorn pop?

Here are more testable questions along with their science projects →

What are the top 10 science projects for 4th grade?

We've handpicked these top 10 science projects for 4th grade which dive into biology, chemistry and physics science experiments. Whether you're looking for a fun experiment or aiming to do an awesome science fair project, these science projects have got you covered!

Shrimp Habitat Preferences

Exploring the Relativity of Time

Science project details at the top of the page!

Can I do a 4th grade science fair project in a day?

Absolutely! Quick experiments using simple materials that you can find at home are an excellent choice for a one-day science fair project! It's ideal to do a simple science project with a fast chemical reaction, like the following projects.

Acid-base reactions: Mixing acids with bases quickly makes carbon dioxide gas!

Make a rocket fly sky high with just baking soda and vinegar! Rocket Film Canisters

Learn how to make your own acid/base indicator using red cabbage and use it to test different fluids! Make Your Own pH Indicator

Chromatography reactions: Separate out colors!

Did you know that some Skittles have a secret rainbow hiding inside them? Colors of Skittles Experiment

Have you ever wondered why leaves change color in the fall? Let's find out by using chromatography to separate the colors of a green leaf! Uncovering Fall Colors

Heat reactions: Heat speeds things up!

Do you want to find out which color candle burns the fastest? Which Candle Burns the Fastest?

What are some hands-on ways to find inspiration for my science fair project?

There may be free admission days or free passes to a science museum near you! Check your local library for free museum passes, nearby science museums for free entrance days and your credit card for offers.

Find a science museum near you and prepare to be awed by all that you can learn there! I always learn something new and am inspired whenever I go to a science museum!

How do I start a science fair project?

What should I do after I have a science fair project idea?

How do I make a science fair board?

What is the scientific method?

What is the engineering design process?

Where can I find a science fair competition?

The www Virtual Library: Science Fairs website also has a collection of science fairs from all over the world, as well as national, state, regional, local, and virtual competitions!

Science Fair Project Ideas for 4th Grade: Simple Experiments

Finding the perfect science fair project idea can be daunting for any 4th grader.

This article provides a curated list of simple yet educational experiments tailored for 4th graders, focusing on fundamental concepts and easy-to-follow procedures to ensure success.

You'll discover the best science fair topics for 4th grade, learn how to apply the scientific method, and get presentation tips to create an effective display board that wins.

Introduction to 4th Grade Science Fair Projects

Doing a science fair project can be an exciting way for 4th graders to explore science and learn the scientific method. Here are some tips for coming up with a great science fair project idea:

Choose a Topic That Interests You

Picking a topic you find fascinating will make your project more enjoyable. Here are some popular science categories to consider:

• Earth Science: Study weather patterns, rocks, soil, or changes to the Earth's surface.
• Life Science: Explore plants, animals, human body systems, or health topics.
• Physical Science: Investigate energy, electricity, motion, magnetism, light, or sound.

Keep It Simple

As a 4th grader just learning the scientific method, choose an experiment or engineering project you can complete in a reasonable amount of time. Steer clear of ideas that require expensive or complicated materials.

Here are some simple, engaging science fair ideas perfect for 4th graders:

• Test how different liquids affect how quickly an ice cube melts
• Build a model solar oven to cook a tasty treat
• Explore how the amount of light affects plant growth

Follow the Scientific Method

All good science fair projects follow the scientific method:

• Ask a question
• Form a hypothesis or make a prediction
• Test your hypothesis through an experiment
• Analyze your results
• Draw a conclusion

Choose an experiment where you can clearly measure results and determine if your hypothesis was correct.

With a little creativity, 4th graders can come up with all kinds of innovative science fair ideas to put the scientific method into action. The most important thing is to have fun learning about how the world works!

What is the best science fair project for 4th grade?

Some of the best science fair project ideas for 4th graders include:

Water Filtering Experiment

This project tests different materials to see which one filters water the most effectively. Students can explore concepts like absorption and filtration.

Materials Needed:

• Containers for unfiltered and filtered water
• Filter materials (sand, gravel, coffee filters, paper towels, cotton balls, etc.)
• Dirty water (water mixed with soil or glitter)
• Measuring cups

Experiment Steps:

• Make predictions on which filter will work best
• Pour dirty water through each filter and capture the filtered water
• Measure and record the clarity of the filtered water
• Analyze results to determine which filter method is most effective

Kitchen Chemistry

Students can create exciting chemical reactions using common kitchen ingredients. This allows them to explore chemistry concepts like acids/bases and chemical reactions.

Experiment Ideas:

• Baking soda and vinegar reactions
• Lava lamp using oil, water, food coloring
• Rainbow milk or candy using food dye
• Elephant toothpaste using hydrogen peroxide and yeast

Other Project Ideas

• Crystal formations using borax, sugar, and water
• Seed germination testing different conditions
• Solar oven using cardboard and aluminum foil

The best projects involve hands-on investigation and experimentation. Students should focus on following the scientific method by making a hypothesis, testing variables, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. This process allows them to think critically and problem solve.

What are the top 10 science fair project?

Here are 10 of the best science fair project ideas for 4th graders:

Investigating the Effect of Different Soil Types on Plant Growth

• Test how plants grow in different types of soil like sand, clay, and potting mix
• Easy to set up and observe over time

Creating a Homemade Lava Lamp

• Use oil, water, food coloring and an effervescent tablet to make a colorful lava lamp
• Shows density and chemical reactions

Building a Windmill Model

• Design blades and test lift and drag forces using a fan or hair dryer
• Learn how wind turbines work to generate electricity

Testing How Wings Affect Flight

• Make paper airplane models with different wing shapes and sizes
• Discover how wings provide lift and affect distance flown

Investigating Crystal Growth

• Grow various crystal structures using borax or alum powder
• Learn about geometry, minerals and chemistry

Creating a Bristlebot

• Build a tiny vibrating robot out of a toothbrush head and pager motor
• Explore concepts in robotics and engineering

Studying Seed Germination Rates

• Test how factors like water, light and temperature affect plant growth
• Engage with environmental science and botany

Building a Solar Oven

• Design a simple oven powered by sunlight to cook food
• Learn about solar energy transformation

Testing Strength of Magnets

• Discover which materials magnets attract and how their strength compares
• Apply principles of magnetism and materials science

Investigating Oil Spills and Cleanup Solutions

• Simulate oil spills in water and test cleanup methods like skimmers
• Explore environmental engineering and oil chemistry

What are the topics for science grade 4?

Here are some of the most common science topics studied in 4th grade:

Earth and Space

• Learning about planets, stars, and galaxies
• Understanding concepts like day and night, seasons, solar and lunar eclipses
• Studying Earth's structure - crust, mantle, core
• Exploring weather and climate

Living Things

• Learning about different types of plants and animals
• Studying life cycles of various organisms
• Understanding ecosystems and food chains
• Exploring adaptation and survival

Physical Science

• Investigating forms of energy like light, heat, motion, electricity and magnetism
• Understanding concepts of force and motion
• Learning about physical properties of matter
• Exploring simple machines like pulleys, gears, levers

Scientific Process

• Learning about making observations and measurements
• Designing experiments and science fair projects
• Understanding concepts like hypotheses and variables
• Practicing graphing data and drawing conclusions

The depth and specifics will depend on state standards, but these tend to be the basic framework of science topics for a typical 4th grade curriculum. The content builds upon concepts from earlier grades while preparing students for more advanced studies in later grades.

What should I do my science fair project on?

Doing a science fair project can be exciting yet challenging for 4th graders. Here are some simple yet educational science fair project ideas tailored for 4th graders:

Music's Effect on Animals

Test how music affects animal behavior. You can use your pet at home or observe animals at a shelter or pet store. Have them listen to different music genres and record any changes in behavior. This allows you to learn about the science of sound.

Food Color Preference

Investigate whether the color of food and drinks impacts our preferences. Make identical recipes but vary only the food coloring. Have test subjects taste and rank each item. You'll explore psychology and use the scientific method.

School Germ Hotspots

Culture samples from various locations at your school to discover where bacteria grows. Swab surfaces like doorknobs, desks, keyboards, etc. and grow cultures to analyze. This introduces microbiology and health science.

Music's Effect on Plants

Explore how music affects plant growth by playing different genres for plants over several weeks. Measure growth to collect data. An easy home project using the scientific method.

Animal Food Preferences

Determine which food types dogs or other pets prefer through taste testing. Useful for learning animal behavior and nutrition science.

These science fair ideas cover diverse science disciplines from health to physics. They utilize simple supplies, ensure feasible procedures, and enable fundamental science learning - perfect for 4th graders starting out in STEM!

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Selecting the perfect project idea.

Choosing the right science fair project idea is crucial for 4th graders to have an enjoyable and educational experience. The project should align with the student's interests while also being feasible to complete within available resources and time constraints.

Aligning Interests with Easy Science Fair Project Ideas for 4th Grade

Brainstorming project ideas that fascinate your 4th grader is an excellent starting point. Consider their hobbies, favorite school subjects, or science topics that spark curiosity. For example, kids who like animals can test different dog toys to see which one lasts the longest. Budding environmentalists may want to examine how different fertilizers impact plant growth. There are endless possibilities once you determine your child's unique passions.

Focusing on simple, hands-on experiments based on the science fair project ideas for 4th grade keyword makes it more engaging. Easy science fair projects like testing paper airplane designs, crystal growing, or "magic" potion making capture attention while teaching core concepts.

Evaluating Resources for 4th Grade Science Projects at Home

The convenience of 4th grade science projects at home allows for flexibility, independence, and cost savings. Evaluate household items that can double as scientific equipment like jars for growing mold cultures or various baking ingredients for erupting volcanos. Simple, safe materials found around the house prevent the need to purchase specialized lab supplies.

Consider spaces for conducting experiments like the kitchen, garage or backyard. Ensure adult supervision and discuss safety rules for using household chemicals or sharp tools. Creativity, resourcefulness and adult guidance make home the ideal lab for 4th graders!

Safety First: Ensuring a Secure Experiment Environment

While science exploration should be fun, upholding strong safety practices prevents accidents and injuries. Carefully read experiment instructions with your child, taking time to discuss potential dangers and appropriate precautions. Establish clear rules for using protective equipment, handling chemicals properly and reporting spills or other issues immediately. Consider fire hazards, chemical reactions or other worst-case scenarios to minimize risks.

By selecting the optimal science fair project idea, leveraging handy household resources and prioritizing safety, 4th graders can have an enriching, confidence-building experience. The right balance of education and excitement sparks a lifelong interest in science.

Applying the Scientific Method in 4th Grade Projects

The scientific method provides a step-by-step process to conduct science experiments and can be easily adapted for 4th grade science fair projects. Following the scientific method allows students to learn and apply core scientific principles.

Formulating a Question and Hypothesis

The first step is coming up with a testable question related to the experiment topic. For example, "Does the amount of light affect how fast a plant grows?". Students should then form a hypothesis or educated guess answering their research question. The hypothesis might state, "If a plant gets more light, then it will grow faster."

Experiment Design and Procedure

Next, students design their experiment to test the hypothesis. Key elements include:

• Independent variable: The factor being tested, such as amount of light
• Dependent variable: The outcome being measured, such as plant growth
• Control group: A baseline without changes to the independent variable
• Multiple trials: Repeat experiments to validate results

The procedure provides step-by-step instructions to perform the experiment, allowing others to replicate it.

Analyzing Data and Drawing Conclusions

Students collect and analyze numerical data, often by creating graphs. They look for patterns and use evidence to determine whether the results support or refute their hypothesis. Drawing conclusions summarizes what was learned in the experiment. Students should also identify new questions raised to drive further research.

Following the scientific method, even in simple 4th grade science fair projects, allows young scientists to investigate questions, problem-solve, and gain critical thinking skills through hands-on discovery.

Crafting an Effective Science Fair Display

Creating an impactful science fair display board is key to clearly communicating your experiment and capturing the audience's attention. An effective display outlines the project's purpose, methodologies, and results in a logical, eye-catching manner.

Designing a Science Fair Poster that Stands Out

When designing your science fair poster, focus on creating visual appeal to draw interest to your project. Consider the following tips:

• Use a tri-fold cardboard display board for ample space to showcase graphics and content
• Select a cohesive color scheme and font style for aesthetic appeal
• Incorporate relevant photos, charts, diagrams, and other graphics to visualize the experiment
• Use bullet points and text boxes for clarity instead of long paragraphs

Organizing Your Science Fair Board for Maximum Impact

Strategically organize the layout of your display to guide viewers through the important aspects of your experiment:

• Title and Purpose - Start with a creative title and overview of goals at the top
• Methodology - Flow into a summarized explanation of scientific steps and procedures
• Results - Use graphs, tables, and other diagrams to highlight measurable outcomes
• Conclusions - Close with the main takeaways, learnings, and potential next steps

Leading viewers through an informative storyboard keeps them engaged with your project.

Presentation Skills for Science Fair Success

It's not enough to just have a well-designed display. Practicing strong presentation skills ensures you can effectively convey your experiment's value:

• Memorize key points rather than reading directly from a script
• Prepare simple summaries of the scientific method, results, and conclusions
• Anticipate questions judges may ask and be ready to answer confidently
• Use eye contact, enthusiasm, and body language to confidently engage your audience

Following these best practices for creating your display and presentation guarantees your science fair project leaves a lasting impression!

Easy and Winning 4th Grade Science Fair Project Ideas

Explore a collection of winning science fair projects that are simple to execute and guaranteed to impress judges and classmates.

Exploring Erosion: Earth Science in Action

Investigate the effects of water and wind on soil erosion with a hands-on environmental science project.

• Gather materials like soil, water, a fan or hair dryer, and containers to hold the soil
• Create a model landscape with the soil and simulate rain and wind
• Observe how the landscape changes over time and measure the amount of soil erosion
• Take photos at intervals to visually demonstrate the erosion process
• Explain concepts like weathering, transportation, and deposition that shape landscapes

This engaging project teaches real-world earth science while letting kids get a bit messy!

The Power of Plants: Plant Science Fair Projects

Conduct experiments on plant growth under different conditions, teaching the basics of life science and botany.

• Test how factors like sunlight, water, soil, or fertilizer affect plant growth
• Grow identical plants under controlled variable conditions
• Record quantitative data like plant height over time
• Present findings with tables, graphs, and photos of the plants
• Learn skills like observing, measuring, analyzing and interpreting data

Plant projects allow students to witness biology and the scientific method first-hand!

Volcanic Eruptions: The Classic Volcano Science Fair Project

Create a model volcano and study the chemical reactions that cause eruptions, blending fun with learning science.

• Construct a papier-mâché volcano model
• Prepare a baking soda and vinegar "lava" mixture
• Add the lava to create an eruption, explaining the acid-base reaction
• Color the lava and decorate the volcano for added drama
• Relate the experiment to real volcanic eruptions and plate tectonics

This exciting project captures interest while demonstrating chemical reactions.

Candy Chemistry: A Sweet Study of Reactions

Utilize common confections to explore chemical properties and reactions, making science fun and relatable.

• Perform tests like dissolving candy in water to compare solubility
• Observe candy under a microscope and draw what you see
• Find out how factors like temperature or acidity affect candy
• Relate your observations to concepts like states of matter, solutions, acids/bases
• Enjoy some sweet treats when you're done!

Tasty candy gives kids memorable insight into core chemistry concepts.

With a bit of creativity, 4th graders can explore real science fundamentals with these engaging, hands-on projects guaranteed to educate and impress!

Last-Minute Science Projects for the Procrastinating Student

Finding quick and easy science fair project ideas for 4th graders that can be completed with minimal preparation but still offer valuable learning experiences can seem daunting. However, there are many fascinating science experiments and models that can be assembled rapidly using common household items. These last-minute science projects allow procrastinating students to put together thoughtful and educational displays.

Rapid Reactions: Quick and Fascinating Chemical Experiments

Chemistry offers many opportunities for short, captivating experiments perfect for the 4th grade science fair. Here are some ideas:

Baking soda and vinegar volcanoes - This classic experiment demonstrates a rapid chemical reaction. Simply add baking soda to a small volcano model, pour in vinegar, and watch it erupt.

Magic milk - Add a drop of food coloring to a shallow dish filled with milk. Next, dip a cotton swab in dish soap and touch it gently to the middle of the milk. Watch as the food coloring shoots away from the soap in a colorful display.

Balloon blow up - Pour some vinegar into a bottle then quickly add baking soda. Cap it with a balloon and observe as the carbon dioxide produced inflates the balloon. Kids will be amazed at how fast it grows!

These types of simple, fast experiments allow students to learn about chemistry while creating an exciting display.

Astronomy on the Fly: Solar System Projects for Kids

Creating a model of the solar system is an engaging science fair project that can be assembled rapidly with common items:

Paper plate planets - Have kids color paper plates to represent each planet and write facts. Punch holes halfway through plates and connect them with brads in order of planet size.

Clay model - Roll clay or playdough into different sized balls for each planet. Insert sticks and label with facts. Great for showing relative size differences!

Hanging styrofoam balls - Use styrofoam craft balls of various sizes painted as planets and hung at staggered heights with string to demonstrate orbits.

These hands-on solar system models are perfect last-minute science fair projects to teach 4th graders about space.

Fast Physics: Simple Machines at Work

Quick and easy physics experiments with simple machines include:

Inclined plane - Measure how far different objects roll down a ramp angled over books. Learn how inclined planes reduce friction and effort.

Levers - Balance a ruler on a pencil to compare effort needed to lift loads at different points. Demonstrate how levers multiply force.

Pulleys - Make a pulley with rope over a stick. Compare lifting weights with hands versus with the pulley system. Observe how pulleys redirect force.

These fast, engaging physics experiments demonstrate simple machine concepts clearly and captivatingly!

With a little creativity, even procrastinating students can put together thoughtful, educational science fair projects with just a little time and effort. The experiments and models above teach fascinating scientific concepts quickly and memorably - perfect for the 4th grade science fair!

Conclusion: Celebrating the Spirit of Inquiry

Science fair projects allow 4th graders to explore their curiosity and develop critical thinking skills. By coming up with their own testable question and experiment design, students learn how to apply the scientific method. They gain valuable research, analysis, and communication abilities that will serve them well in later grades.

Here are some key takeaways when developing 4th grade science fair ideas:

• Choose projects that investigate an interesting concept with a clear hypothesis. This helps focus the experiment.
• Break down the project into simple, logical steps. Complex procedures can overwhelm students.
• Emphasize the learning process over the end result. Science is iterative and a "failed" experiment can still teach a lot.
• Make sure students drive the project with teacher guidance, rather than the other way around. This gives them ownership.
• Have students present to classmates or parents. Practicing communication is an integral scientific skill.

Science fairs create enriching opportunities for 4th graders to unlock their inner scientist. When students drive their own investigative journey, they gain self-confidence along with scientific skills. So encourage them to explore their interests, get creative, and most importantly, have fun!

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• Writing Prompts for 4th Grade: Fostering Creativity
• The Importance of Hands-On Science Experiments
• Reading Games for 4th Grade: Teacher Resources
• STEM Activities for Kids: Classroom Integration

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Science Struck

Top Science Fair Projects For 4th Graders

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Science fairs provide children with an engaging opportunity to get hands-on with science. Kids often select their own topic and experiment to test a hypothesis.

Conduct these fun experiments to help your students discover the fascinating worlds of physics, biology, engineering, and chemistry. Create a teleidoscope and demonstrate light refraction by making one with two mirrors; or cultivate salt crystals overnight in your refrigerator!

1. Colored Sugar Water

Colorful, straightforward and entertaining – this science activity introduces children to density.

Explore a chemical reaction while creating vibrant art at once with this fun science experiment!

Students use simple materials to investigate what causes ocean currents. This serves as an excellent opportunity for them to practice using Petri dishes and swabbing different surfaces.

2. Sundials

Sundials provide an engaging way for students to demonstrate the Earth’s rotation and how shadows change throughout the day. Students will observe their stick’s shadow at various points throughout the day and report back what they find.

These fourth grade science experiments rely on known laws or observations, and can be completed quickly. This is the perfect opportunity to teach children how to organize their results and draw meaningful conclusions based on observational data.

3. Milk Plastic

Milk plastic may appear modern today, but its application dates back many years ago for making buttons, decorative buckles, beads and jewelry such as fountain pens or even fancy combs. Children can explore this casein plastic and learn about density!

Encourage your kid to exercise their engineering abilities by creating a working seismometer model – this science experiment is engaging, simple and impressive! Plus it teaches about gravity.

4. Earthquake

Earthquakes can wreak havoc, but with the right building materials they can be minimized. This experiment tests various materials’ strength in earthquake-prone regions to see which one works best.

Students test how easy it is to topple Lego structures built on gravel, clay and sand soils. They record and plot earthquake depth and location data.

5. Chocolate Chips

An engaging experiment to teach children the importance of food safety.

Behold your kid dazzle their classmates with this simple yet captivating science fair project.

Helping your child prepare for a science fair can be an excellent way to connect and teach valuable life lessons. Make sure you attend their presentation day – it could be the spark that ignites their desire to pursue science as a career!

6. DNA Strand

Construct a DNA model using just some candy! It’s a fun STEM project that helps children understand the double helix structure and basic genetics principles.

Divide students into teams of two. Give each team a set of DNA identity cards, and have them collaborate together to identify whose DNA they possess. This exercise provides an excellent opportunity to review complementary bases, DNA replication and cell process terminology.

7. Diet Soda and Mentos

Mentos geyser experiments are timeless hands-on science experiments and an ideal way to introduce children to the scientific method. By isolating one variable and monitoring their progress through observation and recording results, this hands-on experiment helps kids explore and demonstrate it all at once!

As this activity can get messy, be sure to do it outside in an area that can get dirty. Test various variables such as whether the soda is cold or warm and how many Mentos fall from being dropped on the ground.

8. String of Beads

This classic experiment is an engaging way for 4th graders to explore gravity. Additionally, it makes an easy science fair project idea!

Explore physics with this classic balloon rocket experiment! Students will discover that different materials possess differing levels of kinetic energy.

Take your child on an educational magnetic attraction adventure! They’re sure to love this simple but impressive experiment that shows their powers of magnetism! Kids will especially enjoy this fascinating feat!

9. Wigglebot

With this motorized contraption designed and constructed by children, this easy science experiment will introduce them to wave properties as well as engineering design practices.

One of the girls’ greatest difficulties with this project was finding an appropriate location for their Texta “legs.” Unevenly spaced or misbalanced legs prevented movement or simply fell off altogether, creating much trial and error and collaboration throughout this endeavor.

10. Volcano

Kids love volcanoes and this engaging science project will give them a deeper understanding of this fascinating natural feature. Plus, it could spark their interest in geology!

Chemical reactions between vinegar and baking soda cause volcanoes to erupt. Kids will have great fun participating in this simple experiment! Our kit provides everything necessary for multiple eruptions!

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Science Fair Guide

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4th Grade Science Fair Projects

HTML clipboard Each experimental science project guides in this list contain all the steps you need to start and complete your science project. Information include Introduction, Question/Purpose, Variables, Sample Hypothesis, Sample Experiment designs, guides in creating data table, Graph, drawing Conclusion, writing an Abstract, writing Report. Engineering and display projects may have a different structure.

General Science Projects EX001 A Bell System EX002 History of Shells EX003 A Chemical Change EX006 Heat can Produce Electricity EX008 Fire Must Have Air to Burn EX009 A Door Chime EX015 Electromagnetism EX017 Fluorescent Lights EX018 Measuring the Ocean Depths EX020 Measuring Outer Space EX022 Model Airplanes EX023 How to Develop a Picture EX024 Molding EX025 How Traffic Signals Work EX026 Most Liquid contain either Acid or Alkali EX027 Inside a Cave, Make stalactite EX029 Operation of a Doorbell buzzer EX031 Parts of an Electric Motor EX032 Minerals: Origin, Distribution EX034 A Water Pump in action EX035 Make an Equatorial Sundial EX036 A Weather Station EX037 Our Solar System EX038 A Cotton Gin EX039 Phases of the Moon EX040 A Wheat Elevator EX042 Cross Section of a volcano EX043 Salt and its Uses EX046 Cross Section of the Earth EX047 Simple Machines EX048 Distillation of Water EX053 Fingerprinting EX055 The Telegraph Key EX057 Which Metals Conduct Heat best? EX062 Light EX064 Snowflakes EX065 Water Supports Heavy Weights EX067 An Electromagnetic Crane EX068 Space Problems in Gravity EX070 Steam Propulsion EX073 Parts of a Windmill EX078 Water is Compound of Hydrogen & Oxygen EX083 Working of a Telegraph EX089 Machines Made Work Easier EX093 Causes of the Seasons EX094 Bulbs in Series and Parallel EX097 Chlorophyll EX104 Water Cycle EX106 How Hard are Various Types of Rocks and Minerals? EX109 Erosion – What causes erosion? – How can soil erosion be prevented? EX110 Air Pollution – causes and cleanup EX113 Precipitation EX114 Water Filtration EX119 Tides EX121 Collect and Identify minerals and rocks exposed in local area. PX001 Make a Volcano Model PX002 Make a Magnet PX003 Design and Make A Model Arm PX004 Make A Bird House PX005 Insect Collection Display PX006 Cotton Culture Display PX007 How Old Are Trees PX008 Make a Sundial PX009 Human Eye / Vision Research PX010 Food Values PX011 Inside Fruit PX012 Make A Compass PX014 Habitat Studies PX015 Make Salt Crystals PX016 How a Tooth Decays PX017 Make Sugar Crystals PX019 Nutrition PX020 Insects: Bad Guys or Good Guys? PX021 Draw A Magnetic Field PX022 The Solar System PX024 Parts of the eye (Make a Model of the Human Eye) PX025 Parts of a Hen’s Egg PX027 Parts of a Horse (Display) PX028 Parts of Birds (Display) PX029 Do Plants Grow Toward Light? PX030 What material and objects will be attracted by magnet? PX035 A Secret Letter with Invisible Ink PX036 Germination PX043 What is needed for fire to start? PX048 The Sun, Moon and Earth (Make Model) PX049 The Human Heart, Make Display and Working Model PX053 Carbon Dioxide and Man PX055 How to Test Food for Starch? PX058 Bees PX061 How Do You Test If The Egg Is Cooked? PX062 Best Packaging for an Egg PX063 Make A Simple Electric Circuit PX064 What Battery Last Longest? PX065 Do Detergent Work Best In Cold or Hot Water? PX066 What causes the milk to spoil? PX067 Make Yogurt PX071 Which freezes faster? Water or Salt Water? PX072 Which freezes faster? Water or Sugar Water? PX075 What makes plants grow upward? Light or Gravity? PX076 What is the effect of light on a plants growth? PX078 What is the effect of salt water on a plants growth? PX079 What is the effect of sugar water on a plants growth? PX081 What is the effect of vinegar on plants? PX083 What is the effect of oil on plants? PX084 What color light is best for a plants growth? PX085 What factors affect the evaporation of water? PX086 What is the effect of sugar or salt in the evaporation of water? PX087 Compare two dishwashing liquid to see which one makes more bubbles. PX088 Does the temperature of water affect the time it takes for the water to freeze? PX089 Identify counterfeit bills PX090 Test Apple Maturity PX091 Test fruits or fruit juices for starch PX092 What is cotton candy? PX101 Cost Comparison PX110 A Tundra (Make a model)

Physics Science Projects EP001 How metals compare in conducting heat. EP003 Egg Floatation (buoyancy) EP005 How does the amount of oxygen affect the rate of burning? EP007 Are some substances more soluble than others EP008 How do Aeorplanes fly? What is the best wing shape? EP009 How do waves carry energy EP010 How do magnets work? How are they made? EP012 How Light is Affected passing through water e.g. viewing objects under water, formation of rainbows. EP013 What limits the speed of a car, boat, or a truck? EP014 Submarine: How to sink? How to float?  

Chemistry Science Projects EC001 Chemical Change and the factors that affect the rate such as heat. light and catalysts EC002 Acid and basic solutions, EC004 The effects of salts on the freezing point of water. EC005 Fire must have air to burn. EC006 Effect of Acids on teeth, bones and eggs  

Biology Science Projects EB001 Personal observations on life cycle EB004 What attracts insects? light or heat? EB011 plants and fertilizer EB021 How pet mice respond to different types of food (pellets, crushed, solid) EB031 Why do plants grow towards light? EB032 The effects of gravity on seed germination EB033 How water moves through the plant EB034 How plants reproduce and factors that affect the process EB035 Why do plants move? EB036 How do plants get nitrogen EB037 Does gravity affect plant growth? EB041 The importance of earthworms to soil and plants EB042 The effect of soil components and organic matter on growth of plants. EB056 Plants and animal life in a balanced aquarium  

Other Science Projects EE001 Understanding Electrical Conductors and Insulators EE002 Demonstration of principals; how is current affected by type of conductor, temperature, filament, etc. EE003 Compare material and objects for conductivity. EE005 Principles of fluorescent lights; how do they compare with filament bulbs, in effectiveness and cost. EM001 Day Length EM002 Air Movement – Is air in your house the same temperature at floor level and near the ceiling? How could you spread heat more evenly through the house? EM003 Dew – Does it form on clear or cloudy nights? What other frost factors increase the amount of dew? Can you measure how much dew is formed in a square meter. EM004 Temperature. – How does the temperature change during the day? What time is usually the warmest? Can you construct your own thermometer to keep your own records. EM005 Rain – How does a rain gauge work? Measure the rainfall over a period of time and compare it with the daily weather reports. – Principles of cloud seeding and other weather modification.

Note: Most projects are for more than one grade and selection depends on your previous knowledge about the subject. Do not select projects that you are not familiar with.

50 Fantastic 4th Grade Science Projects and Experiments

Nothing gets kids more excited for science than hands-on experiments! Watch your 4th grade science students’ eyes light up when they try some of these activities. You’ll find physics, biology, engineering, chemistry, and more. These projects are easy to set up and really help drive the learning home. Get ready for some science fun!

To help you find the right 4th grade science projects and activities, we’ve rated them all based on difficulty and materials:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much any time
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete

4th Grade Science Fair Projects

These 4th grade experiments also work well as science fair projects. Try changing up the variables to turn it into a real experiment, then form a hypothesis and find out what happens.

Blow unpoppable bubbles

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Medium

A soap bubble you can hold in your hand? It’s true! A little glycerin makes the soap bubble layers stronger, so you can even toss them gently from person to person.

Learn more: Unpoppable Bubbles Experiment at Learning Resources

Grow crystal names

No list of 4th grade science projects would be complete without crystals! Kids of all ages love growing crystals, making this an ideal way to learn about supersaturated solutions. The classic experiment gets a new twist when you have kids shape pipe cleaners into their own names first.

Learn more: Crystal Letters at Playdough to Plato

Grow bacteria in petri dishes

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

Your students will truly feel like scientists when they perform this classic experiment. They’ll prep the dishes with agar, swab different surfaces, and see what bacteria they grow. It’s gross science, but it’s also easy and impressive.

Learn more: Growing Bacteria at Steve Spangler Science

See coastal erosion in action

Here’s a cool experiment to include in your unit on oceans. Build a miniature coastline, then see how wave action erodes the shore.

Learn more: Erosion Experiment at Little Bins for Little Hands

Erupt a lemon volcano

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Basic

Early chemistry experiments with acids and bases are always a lot of fun. This one uses the natural acids of lemon juice and adds a little food coloring to up the wow factor.

Learn more: Lemon Volcano at STEAM Powered Family

Sink and float to explore density

Adding items like salt or sugar to water changes its density, as does the temperature itself. Turn this into a 4th grade science fair project by experimenting with different solutions and forming hypotheses about the results.

Learn more: Salt Water Density at Science Kiddo

Discover a density rainbow

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Colorful, simple, and impressive: It’s the trifecta of 4th grade science experiments! Wow your students by layering colored sugar water as you learn about density, adhesion, and cohesion.

Transform milk into plastic

Plastic seems incredibly modern, but people have been making casein plastic from milk for centuries. In this 4th grade science project, students experiment to create the formula for the best milk plastic. They’ll be amazed at the results!

Simulate an earthquake

The ground under our feet may feel solid, but an earthquake changes that pretty quickly. Use Jell-O to simulate the Earth’s crust, then see if you can build an earthquake-proof structure for a practical and fascinating 4th grade science fair project.

Learn more: Earthquake Simulation at Teaching Science

Test Sharpie solubility

Find out if Sharpie markers are really permanent with this 4th grade science project that uses the scientific method to explore solutes and solvents.

Learn more: Sharpie Solubility at Around the Kampfire

Find out if mood rings really work

Apply the rigors of the scientific method to mood rings ! Find out what makes mood rings change color, then see if they really reflect a person’s mood.

Learn more: Mood Rings Validity Test at Education.com

Create a new plant or animal

Kids will really get into this project, indulging their creativity as they invent a plant or animal that’s never been seen before. They’ll need to be able to explain the biology behind it all, though, making this an in-depth project you can tailor to any class.

Learn more: Create an Organism at I Love 2 Teach

Investigate decomposition

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Yup, it’s gross … so kids will love it! Seal food items in a plastic bag and experiment to see what factors affect their decomposition, helped along by a heaping dose of mold.

Learn more: Decomposition at Mystery Science

Assemble a lung model

With just a few supplies including balloons and a plastic bottle, you can make an impressive working model of human lungs. This makes a very cool 4th grade science fair project.

Explore the causes of tooth decay

They hear it from their parents all the time, but this experiment will prove to your students once and for all what can happen to their teeth when exposed to different drinks such as soda and milk. This is one of those classic 4th grade science fair projects every kid should try.

4th Grade STEM Challenge Science Projects

For students who love to tinker, STEM challenges can spark incredible 4th grade science fair projects. Here are some of our favorites for this age group.

Engineer a drinking-straw roller coaster

STEM challenges are always a hit with kids. We love this one, which only requires basic supplies like drinking straws . ( Get more 4th grade STEM challenges here. )

Learn more: Drinking Straw Roller Coaster at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

Make a wigglebot

Who knew electricity could be so adorable? Explore the science behind batteries and motors by creating a simple “wigglebot.” Experiment with weights to throw the motor off balance and create fun designs.

Learn more: Wigglebot at Research Parent

Construct a working flashlight

You’ll only need a few supplies to guide your students in building their own LED flashlights. They’ll learn how electricity travels and the way circuits work. The slideshow available through the link makes this lesson a breeze for teachers too.

Learn more: DIY Flashlight at Mystery Science

Build a hovercraft

It’s not exactly the same model the military uses, but this simple hovercraft is a lot easier to build. An old CD and a balloon help demonstrate air pressure and friction in this fun 4th grade science experiment.

Learn more: DIY Hovercraft at Education.com

Create a smartphone projector

No projector in your classroom yet? No problem! Have your students help you construct one for your smartphone using a cardboard box and large magnifying glass . They’ll learn about convex lenses and how the brain processes images too.

Learn more: DIY Smartphone Projector at The STEM Laboratory

Set up a pulley system

The science of machines never fails to fascinate kids. In this experiment, they’ll design their own pulley system to make it easier to lift an object.

Learn more: DIY Pulley at 123 Homeschool 4 Me

Design a working elevator

Engineering activities make for amazing hands-on learning. Challenge your 4th grade students to build an elevator that can safely lift a certain amount of weight.

Make a model seismometer

Explore the science of seismology and learn how scientists study earthquakes and their effects. This model seismometer is easy to build and fun to experiment with.

Learn more: Model Seismometer at Science Sparks

Conduct an egg drop

Here’s one more classic to add to our list of 4th grade science experiments: the egg drop! The great thing about this project is that kids can do it at any age, with different materials and heights to mix it up. Hit the link below to get an egg drop project designed just for 4th graders.

Learn more: Egg Drop at Buggy and Buddy

Demonstrate Newton’s laws of motion with balloon rockets

Who doesn’t love balloon rockets?! Your students will have a blast(off) displaying Newton’s third law of motion while learning about physics.

4th Grade Motion and Energy Science Activities

Many 4th grade science standards include units on energy and motion. These energy science activities offer cool hands-on ways to spice up your classroom lessons.

Flick marbles to learn transfer of energy

This experiment is a bit of a thinker: What will happen when one moving marble hits several stationary marbles sitting in a row? Flick the first marble and find out!

Learn more: Marble Energy Transfer at Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

See energy transfer in action with sports balls

Place a tennis ball on top of a basketball and bounce them together to see how energy transfers from one object to another. This one is very easy, and kids will love seeing how high they can get the balls to bounce!

Go an on energy scavenger hunt

Emphasize the fact that energy is all around us in one form or another with this easy, free printable energy science activity. For a more advanced version, help students identify each kind of energy (kinetic, stored, heat, etc.) they find.

Learn more: Energy Scavenger Hunt at The Science Penguin

See a heat-powered windmill demonstrate convection

Heat rises, and its interaction with cooler air creates convection currents. Find out how we can put convection to work for us with this 4th grade science craft project.

Capture waves in a bottle

Here’s a quick and easy way to show wave action in a no-mess way. You don’t need to add a little ship to the bottle, but it does make it more fun!

Learn more: Waves in a Bottle at What I Have Learned Teaching

Assemble a wave machine

Turn this one into a class cooperative activity, or try it as a science fair project idea. Either way, it’s an incredibly fascinating way to demonstrate the energy science of waves.

Use a Slinky to demonstrate types of waves

A Slinky is more than just a toy—it’s also a terrific science manipulative! Use it to see waves in motion, both longitudinal and transverse.

Watch gravity beads prove Newton’s laws

You’ll need a loooooooong string of beads for this experiment. Make your own by taping dollar-store strings together, or buy a long bead garland . Pile them in a cup and get the beads going; it’s fascinating to watch inertia and gravity at work.

Learn more: Gravity Beads at Teach Beside Me

Spin marble tops to learn about inertia

Glue together marbles in a variety of pyramidal patterns to form tops, then form hypotheses about which will spin best. Afterwards, kids will have fun new toys to play with!

Learn more: Marble Tops at KidsActivities.com

Visualize the second law of motion with soda cans

Newton’s second law, concerning acceleration, force, and mass, can be a little hard to understand. This easy 4th grade science demo makes it a little easier to visualize.

More 4th Grade Science Projects and Activities

Use these cool science experiments to encourage a love of science, at home or in the classroom!

Measure a magnet’s attraction force

Fourth grade science students already know that magnets attract metal objects. In this experiment, they’ll measure to see how close a magnet needs to be to an object for the attraction to work. Mix things up with different sizes of magnets and objects of various weights.

Learn more: Magnet Measurements at Ashleigh’s Education Journey

See light refraction in action

This seems more like a magic trick, but we promise it’s science! Make colors seem to appear and disappear, change numbers into letters, and more.

Learn more: Light Refraction at Ronyes Tech

“Draw” on water with dry-erase marker

This is another one of those mind-blowing science demos that kids will want to try over and over again. Draw on a shallow bowl or plate with dry-erase markers , then slowly add water. The marker (which is insoluble in water) will float to the top!

Paint with sunscreen

Prove that sunscreen really does provide protection from harmful UV rays. Turn this into a full-blown experiment by trying different SPFs or comparing it to other creams or lotions without SPF.

Learn more: Paint With Sunscreen at Team Cartwright

Become human sundials

Choose a sunny day and grab some sidewalk chalk—your students are about to become sundials! They’ll practice measuring skills and learn about the movement of the sun across the sky.

Learn more: Human Sundial at Rhythms of Play

Mine for chocolate chips

If you’re learning about mineral resources, this quick hands-on activity is an interesting way to explore the effects of mining. Kids have two minutes to find as many chocolate chips as they can in a cookie. Will they smash it up and destroy it entirely? Pick them out one by one? This experiment can lead to intriguing discussions.

Learn more: Mining for Chocolate Chips at Sarah’s STEM Stuff

Assemble an edible DNA model

Use licorice sticks, four different-colored candies or fruits, and toothpicks to build an edible strand of DNA. Learn about chemical bonds and the helix shape, then eat your creation!

Learn more: Edible DNA Model at wikiHow

Layer an edible soil model

Digging in the dirt is fun, but it’s even more fun when you can eat the dirt when you’re finished! Create edible soil-layer models, complete with gummy worms, for a simple earth science project. ( Find more edible science projects here. )

Learn more: Edible Soil Layers at Super Teacher Blog

Turn a penny green

Experiment with simple chemical reactions as you turn pennies green using vinegar. (Don’t forget to tell students that the Statue of Liberty is green for this very same reason!)

Learn more: Penny Reactions at Buggy and Buddy

Use marshmallows to explore Boyle’s law

Seeing Boyle’s law (which relates pressure and volume of gasses) in action makes it a little easier to understand and remember. This simple 4th grade science experiment uses marshmallows to make a great visual.

Learn more: Boyle’s Law at Hojo’s Teaching Adventures

Form ocean currents

Learning about oceanography? Demonstrate how ocean currents form using warm and cold water (and a few plastic sea creatures for extra fun!).

Learn more: Ocean Currents at Life Over C’s

Understand the impact of non-renewable resources

This is a neat Earth Day activity . Discuss the differences between renewable and non-renewable resources, then have your class form “companies” to “mine” non-renewable resources. As they compete, they’ll see how quickly the resources are used. It’s a great tie-in to energy conservation discussions.

Learn more: Non-Renewable Resources at The Owl Teacher

Explore blood components

Use simple kitchen supplies to create a jar full of “blood” that includes plasma, platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells. (You can even snack on the blood cells along the way!)

Learn more: Blood Model at Almost Supermom

Create cool colors with candy

Learn about diffusion in the sweetest way! Grab a bag of Skittles for this quick and easy 4th grade science project.

Wow them with glowing water

Your students will ooh and aah at the result of this exploratory way to show phosphors in action with a black light, different types of water, and a highlighter. The results of this experiment might surprise both you and your students!

Learn more: Glowing Water Experiment at Cool Science Experiments Headquarters

Keep the STEM excitement going with these 25 Fantastic Free 4th Grade Math Games .

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Do a Science Fair Project!

How do you do a science fair project.

Ask a parent, teacher, or other adult to help you research the topic and find out how to do a science fair project about it.

Test, answer, or show?

Your science fair project may do one of three things:

Test an idea (or hypothesis.)

Answer a question.

Show how nature works.

Topic ideas:

Space topics:.

How do the constellations change in the night sky over different periods of time?

How does the number of stars visible in the sky change from place to place because of light pollution?

Learn about and demonstrate the ancient method of parallax to measure the distance to an object, such as stars and planets.

Study different types of stars and explain different ways they end their life cycles.

Earth topics:

How do the phases of the Moon correspond to the changing tides?

Demonstrate what causes the phases of the Moon?

How does the tilt of Earth’s axis create seasons throughout the year?

How do weather conditions (temperature, humidity) affect how fast a puddle evaporates?

How salty is the ocean?

Solar system topics:

How does the size of a meteorite relate to the size of the crater it makes when it hits Earth?

How does the phase of the Moon affect the number of stars visible in the sky?

Show how a planet’s distance from the Sun affects its temperature.

Sun topics:

Observe and record changes in the number and placement of sun spots over several days. DO NOT look directly at the Sun!

Make a sundial and explain how it works.

Show why the Moon and the Sun appear to be the same size in the sky.

How effective are automobile sunshades?

Study and explain the life space of the sun relative to other stars.

Pick a topic.

Try to find out what people already know about it.

State a hypothesis related to the topic. That is, make a cause-and-effect-statement that you can test using the scientific method .

Explain something.

Make a plan to observe something.

Design and carry out your research, keeping careful records of everything you do or see.

Create an exhibit or display to show and explain to others what you hoped to test (if you had a hypothesis) or what question you wanted to answer, what you did, what your data showed, and your conclusions.

Write a short report that also states the same things as the exhibit or display, and also gives the sources of your initial background research.

Practice describing your project and results, so you will be ready for visitors to your exhibit at the science fair.

Follow these steps to a successful science fair entry!

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Liquid Density Experiments

Liquid Density Experiment

• 3 150 mL beakers  (or use glass jars or clear plastic cups)
• vegetable oil (you can also experiment with various types of oil, i.e. olive oil, lamp oil, baby oil)
• several small objects - raisins, paperclips, pennies, small corks, etc.
• Write down what you think will happen when you place each object into the three different liquids based on your guess of the density of liquids. Because these liquids will have different densities, there will be a density tower, or different layers, that are visible, sort of like being able to see ice cubes (frozen water) in room temperature water.
• Pour 150 mL of water into beaker #1, 150 mL of corn syrup into beaker #2, and 150 mL of vegetable oil into beaker #3. (If you are using glass jars, use 2/3 cup of liquid, which is approximately 150 mL.)
• Gently set a raisin in each beaker. Does it sink or float? Write down what happens to the raisin in each beaker.
• Take the raisins out of the beakers and try a different object, such as a paperclip or cork. Record what happens in each beaker.

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Were your predictions right? Did the raisins and other objects sink and float when you expected them to? Did they float in one liquid and sink in another? Why do you think they acted the way they did?

The less dense liquid will float on top of the more dense liquid. If one of your objects floated in the corn syrup but sank in the water, what does that tell you about the densities of water and corn syrup? Take the experiment a step further to find out more.

•   600 mL beaker (or use a large jar)
• corn syrup and/or maple syrup
• vegetable oil (you can also experiment with various types of oil, i.e. olive oil, lamp oil)
• food coloring

Which is the most dense: water, corn syrup, or vegetable oil? Which is the least dense? Based on your results from experiment #1, predict which liquid you think is the most dense and which you think is the least dense.

• Place a few drops of food coloring into the beaker of water so you will be able to tell it apart from the other liquids. (This is not necessary if you are using dark corn syrup.)
• Carefully pour 200 mL of each of the liquids into a 600 mL beaker or a large jar. Let them settle.
• What happened? Did the three liquids mix together or separate into layers? Which liquid is at the bottom of the jar? Which is at the top?

Was your prediction right? If so, the liquid you thought was the most dense should be at the bottom of the jar. The next dense will float on top of that, and the least dense will float at the very top.

Now you know how the densities of the three liquids compare to each other. If you want to find out the approximate density of each, you can calculate it using this formula: Density = Mass/Volume.

On Earth, we measure mass (how much of a substance there is) by calculating weight (how heavy it is). Weigh each liquid in grams (make sure you subtract the weight of the beaker!) and then divide that number by the volume (number of milliliters) of the liquid.

The answer is density in grams (g) per milliliter (mL).

(Your answer will be more exact if you use a  graduated cylinder  instead of a beaker to measure the volume and weigh the liquid.)

Experiment #3: Hot and Cold

• 2 150 mL beakers (or use glass jars or clear plastic cups)
• food coloring (red and blue)
• Narrow Glass or beaker

Does temperature change the density of water? Write down what you think will happen when you mix cold water and hot water.

• Fill two beakers with 150 mL (2/3 cup) of water. Put several drops of blue food coloring in one beaker, and several drops of red in the second.
• Add a handful of ice to the blue water and put it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
• Put the red beaker in the microwave for a minute.
• Take the blue beaker out of the fridge and the red beaker out of the microwave.
• Pour some of the blue water into the 10 mL graduated cylinder or narrow glass.
• Using a pipet, slowly add red water a drop at a time and watch what happens. (This part may take a little practice—if you add the red water too fast you will force the colors to mix. Hold the pipet near the surface of the water and keep trying until you get it!)

Experiment #4: Salty or Sweet

• 3 150 mL beakers (or use glass jars or clear plastic cups)
• 10 mL graduated cylinder (or tall, narrow glass)
• stir utensil

Will adding salt make the water more dense? Will adding sugar make the water more dense? Which is more dense, sugar water or saltwater? Write down what you think will happen to the density of water if you add salt or sugar.

• Fill three beakers with 150 mL (2/3 cup) of water. Add food coloring to make blue, red, and green water.
• Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the red beaker and stir until the salt is dissolved. Add 2 teaspoons of sugar to the blue water and stir until it is dissolved.
• Try putting a raisin in each of the beakers. Does it float? Remove the raisins with a spoon.
• Pour some of the red (salty) water into the graduated cylinder. Using the pipet, slowly add the blue (sugar) water one or two drops at a time. Record which sinks to the bottom and which floats on top.
• Add the green (pure) water drop-by-drop to the other two and record what happens.

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45 Great Science Projects For 4th Graders

By Beth Roberts | Last Updated May 4, 2022

As science concepts are constantly changing and developing, kids have to grow up learning them at a rapid pace. However, this may be a time-consuming and frustrating procedure for parents and educators. If you are looking for a fun way to help your young learner keep up with the latest scientific breakthroughs, then here are some great projects you can use during family time to stimulate discussion about the latest scientific discoveries. These 45 science projects for 4th graders will keep your child engaged all year long!

1. Transfer Of Energy

Collect some marbles! This simple transfer of energy science experiment is a wonderful method to illustrate how energy is transmitted from one thing to another. This exercise requires some thought: What happens when a traveling marble collides with numerous immobile marbles arranged in a row? Find out by tossing the first marble!

2. Volcano Science 

The volcano science project is one of the most popular science fair projects globally, and it’s easy to see why. It’s entertaining and simple. Make your model out of an empty bottle, some cardboard, a few old newspapers, and any other odds and ends you can find about the house.

3. Snow Volcano

Making a volcano is a traditional science experiment for youngsters that everyone should try. It mixes science education for children with the awe-inspiring effect of a snow volcano science experiment . However, the setup and cleanup might be time-consuming. This snow volcano is an easy-to-set-up and quick-to-clean-up winter science activity!

4. Melting Snowman Winter 

Children will like this melting snowman , in which they will melt the snowman utilizing a fascinating winter scientific experiment. This snowman activity for preschoolers is ideal for toddlers, preschool, pre-k, and even elementary school students who want to sneak in a fun winter project where they will make a snowman and then melt it using snow science experiments for kids.

5. What If There Is No Electricity?

Make this handy paper flashlight , and learn about basic electric circuit principles! This activity is an excellent experiment for children because it will undoubtedly bring the science of batteries to their attention.

6. Make A Super Cool Lemon Battery

This instruction on constructing a lemon battery is excellent for a quick science fair project, a really fun home science experiment, or a classroom science exercise that requires no preparation. An intriguing experiment, Lemon Power is one that you can try to replicate with various fruits. Which fruit is the most effective battery? Experiment and see what happens!

7. Melting Snowman Slime

With this incredibly glittery and goofy Melting Snowman craft activity , your children will have a BLAST! They will have to race against the clock to construct a cute snowman out of the snowman slime before the snowman melts back into a puddle. This is a fantastic snowman activity for children during December, January, and February. You have to try these basic winter activities for elementary school students if you want to succeed.

8. How Do Antacids Work?

In this project, students investigate the chemical reaction when water is mixed with effervescent antacid tablets. This hands-on lesson demonstrates how a material might behave differently when reduced in size to the nanoscale range. It’s interesting for students to see the difference in reaction time between an unbroken antacid tablet and an unbroken one cut into several pieces.

9. Science Project On Tooth Decay

Maintaining healthy teeth is critical for chewing food, which is necessary for digestion. Due to the critical nature of teeth, tooth decay can be a major concern. A scientific fair project enables students to demonstrate how tooth decay occurs and how it can be prevented. You’ll need numerous samples for this job, and you’re unlikely to have a collection of teeth. Do not be concerned. Eggshells are an excellent replacement, and you may obtain as many as you require.

10. Mice And Music

If you’re testing mice in a maze, consider testing mice’s response to music . It is, in fact, an excellent experiment that has been replicated numerous times in laboratories. Scientists seek to examine the impact of various musical genres on mice to make connections with children. REMEMBER that if you choose to utilize live animals in your science fair project, you must ensure that the animals are not harmed!

11. Exploding Snowman

Children will go crazy for these simple winter activities for elementary students, which they will want to repeat repeatedly! Children will utilize a few common household items to create the winter science experiment to produce a baking soda and vinegar scientific experiment. Prepare for exciting giggles as the snowman grows larger and larger until it POPS! Use this as a snowman activity for children during the chilly months of December, January, and February!

12. Make A Lemon Volcano

After successfully creating a lemon battery, I found a lot of lemons asking to be utilized in another great science experiment. Therefore, what did they do? A lemon volcano can be built! There are so many lemons in our pantry that we could create the rainbow’s most beautiful creation with them all. Consider this excellent technique to utilize those lemons!

13. Force And Motion Stations

Students in fourth-grade science already understand that magnets attract certain metal items . They will do this experiment to determine the minimum distance between a magnet and an object for attraction to occur. Combine magnets of varying diameters with objects of varying weights.

14. Homemade Lava Lamp

This project will take around 2 hours to complete, including the experiment and the writing of the report. Children will learn about the interaction between oil and water in terms of density, as well as the presence of hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances, by participating in this activity.

15. A Magnetic Primer Designer

How are scientists able to “replicate” DNA? They employ a technique known as Polymerase Chain Reaction or PCR. The critical component of this process is a short bit of DNA called a primer that adheres to the larger piece of DNA you wish to duplicate, called a template. In this Magnetic Primer research project , you will investigate how the amount of matches and mismatches in a primer affects its ability to adhere to, or anneal, the DNA template during polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

16. Make Frost In A Can

Making frost in a can is a simple science experiment that kindergarten students enjoy. Kids can do this frost experiment at home without becoming cold will delight them, children. For parents, teachers, and homeschoolers alike, this easy salt and ice experiment is a great way to teach children how frost forms in the winter.

17. Ice Salt And Water Temperature

We use ice to cool or maintain the temperature of our drinks. Nobody enjoys warm lemonade or drink, isn’t that correct? With this enjoyable, simple science for kids, teach children about the effect of ice and salt on temperature . This ice and salt experiment is quite easy to conduct and is ideal for encouraging children to investigate and think critically about their surroundings.

18. Growing Bacteria In Petri Dishes 

Are you looking for the greatest bacteria science fair projects that will truly impress your friends and family? Steve Spangler Science has a fantastic collection of bacteria culture ideas, hands-on experiments, and science fair projects for children! Our super-fun projects and bacteria culture experiments will allow your young scientists to witness incredible and memorable bacteria growth in front of their eyes — in a petri dish in their home or classroom!

19. Earthquake Experiment And Interactive

Set a plate of jelly on the table and then begin constructing a structure on top of it. Wobble the dish once the structure is complete so that the jelly rattles and causes the structure to collapse, showing the science of seismology .

20. How To Do the Light Total Refraction Trick?

This may be a magic trick, but we assure you that it is not! C reate the illusion of colors appearing and disappearing , convert numbers to letters, etc. The Zip Lock Bag Water Refraction experiment is a basic and straightforward but awe-inspiring experiment. Simply submerge the zip lock bag in water to remove the image. It does appear to be magical.

21. Fizzy Love Potion

This Valentine’s Day, bring science to life by including some hearts and a delightful WOW effect that will keep youngsters engaged and learning fun. This is a simple Love Potion valentine’s science project with a little extra zing because it is a chemistry science experiment. Thus, by incorporating these Valentine’s Day scientific experiments into your day at home or at school, you may add some learning to the Valentine’s Day theme.

22. Bridge Project

This initiative investigates the fundamental physics of bridges . The goal is for the student to understand which shapes are the most structurally sound through experimentation, as well as the fact that many elements are taken into consideration in the field of engineering and construction. Physics is applied practically in this project, taking place in a real-world setting.

23. Valentines Day Oobleck

Have your children ever attempted to play with Oobleck? Oobleck is an enthralling non-Newtonian fluid that possesses both liquid and solid qualities! It truly is an enthralling science experiment for children to investigate and play with. They created a Valentine’s Day science variation of Oobleck to provide a very enjoyable Valentine’s Day exercise for elementary pupils. Utilize this for your Valentine’s Day theme, scientific exploration of states of matter, or a fun Valentine’s Day idea.

24. DIY Hovercraft

This experiment has proven to be one of the most effective methods of proving the power of air time and time again. Create a floating hovercraft and learn about friction and air pressure as you go.

25. Floating Dry Erase Rainbow And Shapes

The following is yet another mind-blowing science demonstration that youngsters will want to perform repeatedly. Dry erase markers are used to draw on a shallow dish or plate, and then water is progressively added. This is because the marker is insoluble in water and will float to the top of the water!

26. Glittery Purple Valentine Slime

Within 5 minutes, you can put together this incredibly entertaining Valentine Activity. Make this Valentine Slime in minutes with only a few simple supplies, some of which you may already have at home. They are easily obtained from your local craft store, Amazon, or Walmart if you do not have them. Use this in conjunction with your creative Valentine’s Day ideas for kids.

27. Paper Airplane Science

Create your theory about paper aircraft , and then conduct your experiment to test that idea. This article will provide you with all of the information you require.

28. Sunscreen Painting

Do your children become irritated when you apply sunscreen to them? Alternatively, you might say no outright. Demonstrate that sunscreen does protect from dangerous ultraviolet rays. Make this a full-fledged experiment by experimenting with different SPFs or comparing it to other creams or lotions that do not contain SPF.

29. Gummy Bear Osmosis

Perhaps you’ve seen some of the interesting, basic scientific experiments available online, but one that caught our eye was testing osmosis using gummies . Jordyn C. Jordyn, one of our contributors, conducted this gummy bear osmosis experiment with her children. We’ll share her results below; however, if you want to do your experiment, here’s everything you’ll need.

30. Magic Milk

I enjoy simple yet meaningful experiences that encourage young children to investigate, explore, and marvel at the world around them. The magic milk scientific project should be simple, quick to complete, and have a fantastic WOW moment. This experiment using milk and food coloring satisfies all three criteria! At home, in the classroom, or at your homeschool coop, try this milk science experiment for kids’ fun Valentine’s Day activity!

31. Unpoppable Bubbles

Is it possible to hold a soap bubble in your hand ? Yes, this is correct! A small amount of glycerin makes the soap bubble layers more durable, allowing you to gently toss them from person to person without breaking them.

32. Crystal Names

A complete list of fourth-grade science experiments would be incomplete without mentioning crystals. Growing crystals is a popular activity among children of all ages, making it an excellent opportunity to teach them about supersaturated solutions. When you first shape pipe cleaners into the shapes of their names, the traditional experiment takes on a whole new meaning.

33. Does Mint Cool Things Down?

Mint is a perennial blooming herb that comes in a variety of varieties. It thrives in shaded, chilly, wet places. Numerous individuals appreciate mint’s mild, refreshing flavor. Mint-flavored gum, breath fresheners, and hard candies frequently advertise the cooling effect of mint by incorporating pictures of frost and ice. However, is this impression a result of the mint’s true cooling effect ?

34. Which Food Will Rot First?

It’s critical to communicate to your children that they don’t have to wait to realize their ambitions of becoming scientists; they can start right away in their kitchens. They only need to think like a scientist to succeed. The first thing they require is for them to begin with a question. My little scientists came up with the question, “ Which food will go bad first? ” Here’s how we went about trying to figure it out!

35. Newton’s Law

Newton’s First Law asserts that an object in motion will continue to move unless acted upon by an external force. Use a string of beads to demonstrate Newton’s Law of Gravity when the beads are pulled ever so little and then begin to fall out of a glass or other container.

36. Layered Liquids Density 

Are you trying to come up with a nice Valentine’s Day science project for February? When the layered liquids stack up in gorgeous Valentine’s day hues, the children will be amazed. This will be one of the most memorable valentine’s science experiments that they will ever participate in. This Layered Liquids Density exercise is a terrific approach to teaching children about density through a fun, hands-on, and visually appealing density experiment that they will enjoy.

37. Oil Spill Experiment

This oil spill exercise will assist you in gaining a better understanding of the negative impacts of oil spills on the marine ecosystem. We have all heard of oil spills and their devastation of Mother Earth and the marine life that depends on it. However, those who do not encounter these impacts firsthand are unaware of their magnitude.

38. Beach Erosion Demonstration

Where has the beach vanished? Have you ever observed how the coastline changes after a large storm? Why does the seashore have a different appearance? You’re observing the effect of coastal erosion, and you can now set up a beach erosion activity and demonstration to demonstrate to your children how it works. This simple and enjoyable ocean science exercise is certain to be a favorite with your children, as it incorporates hands-on learning!

39. A Ping Pong Catapult

If you were a member of a raiding army in the Middle Ages, a catapult would have been extremely useful for destroying castle walls. However, only if you could accurately aim it! You will experiment with catapult technology in this science project. With a rubber band-powered catapult, you will launch ping pong balls into the air. The catapult design makes it simple to measure and repeat the force with which the ball is launched and its direction, allowing you to establish the optimal catapult settings for reliably hitting the goal.

40. Leprechaun Rocks

When it comes to concealing their gold, leprechauns are cunning. It is insufficient to seek refuge at the end of the rainbow. As a result, even if you reach the end of the rainbow, you will not discover a gold mine. They’d never make it that simple. However, you may come upon some strange green rocks – leprechaun rocks if you look about. With this leprechaun rocks scientific experiment , you’ll discover the secret science of luring the Leprechaun to release their treasure.

41. Amazing Food Coloring Flower 

This simple Flower Science Experiment will teach children about the elements of a flower, the floral’s life cycle, and capillary action – all while engaging them in a wonderfully beautiful flower activity! Children will be able to paint flowers using this flower experiment – even turning white flowers into two-color blooms! This color-changing flower experiment is one of the most incredible kindergarten science experiments I’ve ever seen. Get started by printing out the free food coloring flower experiment worksheet.

42. Make An Anemometer

Using your very own anemometer, determine the wind speed ! Simple earth science is demonstrated using a garden contraption constructed of paper cups, tape, straws, a pencil, and a thumbtack.

43. Simple Geranium Photosynthesis

This SIMPLICITY photosynthesis project enables children to learn about photosynthesis visually. With just a few readily available supplies, you can do this plant experiment for kids in minutes. Your children will like learning and retain much more information about what they do than what they hear. And introducing your children to a world of inquiry, curiosity, and trial and error will prepare them for success in any endeavor they pursue in life.

44. Balloon Rocket

The balloon rocket experiment is an excellent example of a children’s science project that may be carried out at home, in the classroom, or at science fairs. It’s always enjoyable to work on science projects and learn about the research’s rationale. The balloon rocket is an excellent science experiment for 4th Grade Science Projects.

45. Make A DIY Weather Vane

As spring approaches, we observe various changes in the weather, making it an excellent time to investigate with some fun weather activities for kids and weather experiments for kids to help children learn more about wind, rain, clouds, and more! I’ll demonstrate how to create an EASY weather vane , a DIY compass, and additional weather topics that 4th students would enjoy. Therefore, get a few readily available materials and construct this handmade weather vane today.

Science Fair Project Guide | Experiment Journal and Worksheets For Grade 4 And 5

• Easel Activity

What educators are saying

Also included in.

Description

A step by step science fair guide with workbook pages, tips, blank science journal, and poster board layout. It helps fourth and fifth graders create age-appropriate experiments with less parental guidance. Teachers can use as a classroom unit on the scientific method, science processes, and to help complete a whole-class project. We will help make the science fair a fun and rewarding experience.

Don't be nervous when your child says they want to participate in the science fair.

Nervous about planning a science fair project. They will learn to perform experiments with at least 3 levels of the independent variable with 3-5 trials. Teachers and parents have all expressed how the methods in this workbook helped make the science fair positive and memorable.

Ways to use the workbook

• Great for Science Fairs: A guide to help parents be the assistant and the student to take the lead.
• Use to create a whole class science fair project. It saves so much time and is engaging.
• Teachers can use the workbook to create investigations for classroom science units and to learn the scientific method.
• Homeschoolers can use the method to explore topics throughout the year.
• Great for group projects in class. Each group can create an original investigation about a topic they are studying and then share the results.

What is included in the 39-page download?

• Teacher and Parent Tips
• Parts of an Investigation
• Practice Pages
• Interpreting Data and Creating Graphs
• Steps for creating original projects out of everyday items
• Templates for Writing Questions, Titles, and Hypothesis
• 10-page Investigation Journal Template
• How to organize the display board
• Judging Form
• End of Unit Test
• Answer Keys
• And much more. Check the table of contents in the preview.
• It contains a slightly wider left-hand margin for hole punching.

Is your fair virtual or being performed from home?

A pre-created template for Easel by TPT is included. We added text boxes, movable pieces, and a few extra tips. Just click "Open in Easel" on the product page. We included every page in the workbook but you can modify as needed. The answer keys are still there. You may also want to send the workbook in chunks to the students. Use caution if students are performing the experiment with their device next to the supplies. You may find you prefer to print the papers, but this gives you flexibility.

This workbook is intended to be done with the student as the leader and the teacher/help providing guidance when needed. It educates the adult as well as the student. Teachers will love how easy it is to create an original investigation. Students will love creating a hands-on project to call their own.

We use these workbooks for a workshop with parents and students to help guide them in creating their science fair projects. We find by providing this guide participation increases because parents feel they can assist their children.

This is part of a series. Each workbook expands until the students reach 4th and 5th grade when they will be working independently. The 4th and 5th-grade workbook can also be used with middle-level students.

Companion Products

• Science Fair Project Labels And Title Template | Editable
• Science Fair Project Organization | Poster Labels And Editable Title Template
• Science Fair Certificates
• Science Fair Certificates | Participation 1st 2nd 3rd Place
• Science Fair Project Guide | Experiment Journal And Worksheets For Grade K And 1
• Science Fair Project Guide | Experiment Journal and Worksheets For Grade 2 And 3
• Science Fair Project Guide Bundle | Experiment Journal and Worksheets | K To 5

Save over 30% with The Complete Science Fair Project Guide Bundle . This contains all the products listed here, over 30 science demonstrations, and more. Guide students to create original projects.

Remember leaving feedback earns you points toward FREE TPT purchases. We love hearing how the investigation went.

Also, follow us and be notified when new explorations are uploaded and deals.

Please contact us with any questions! We are here to help.

Yours in Science,

Kimberly Scott

All pages in this packet are copyrighted. This packet is intended for classroom or parent use. If using for a school-wide science fair please purchase a site license fee for each classroom. The product may not be posted on a webpage for parents to access freely. Please link them to my store.

Science Fair Projects

What Makes Popcorn Pop?

People have been fascinated by popcorn for centuries. Native Americans believed that a spirit lived inside each kernel of popcorn. When heated, the spirit grew angry and would eventually burst out of its home and into the air as a disgruntled puff of steam. A less charming but more scientific explanation exists for why popcorn pops.

Popcorn is scientifically known as Zea mays everta. It’s a type of maize, or corn, and is a member of the grass family. Popcorn is a whole grain and is made up of three components: the germ, endosperm, and pericarp (or hull) . Of the 4 most common types of corn —sweet, dent (also known as field), flint (also known as Indian corn), and popcorn—only popcorn pops! Popcorn differs from other types of corn in that its hull has just the right thickness to allow it to burst open.

As the kernel heats up, the water begins to expand. Around 212 degrees the water turns into steam and changes the starch inside each kernel into a superhot gelatinous goop. The kernel continues to heat to about 347 degrees. The pressure inside the grain will reach 135 pounds per square inch before finally bursting the hull open.

As it explodes, steam inside the kernel is released. The soft starch inside the popcorn becomes inflated and spills out, cooling immediately and forming into the odd shape we know and love. A kernel will swell 40-50 times its original size!

Where to Begin an Experiment?

There are a lot of experiments you can try using popcorn. First, you need to figure out what you want to compare and what you can measure. For example:

• White vs. yellow
• Flavor vs. plain
• Methods of popping: microwave, stovetop, or air popper
• Size/amount of kernels
• Storage temperature for kernels
• Storage conditions (moisture, dryness) for kernels
• Popping time
• Total number of kernels popped or unpopped
• Percentage of popped kernels
• Volume of popcorn produced
• Weight of popcorn produced
• Average size of popped corn
• Time it takes to pop popcorn

For example:

• How does moisture affect popability?
• Which brand of microwave popcorn pops fastest?
• Which brand leaves the most unpopped kernels? 

Avoid questions like “Which brand tastes best?” because it is a subjective question and difficult to measure.

Make sure you replicate your experiment. It’s important to repeat your test at least three times. That means, if you’re comparing microwave popcorn for the number of unpopped kernels left after popping, you need to test 3 of the same type of bag per brand. Sure, that’s a lot of popcorn, but that just means you get to eat a lot of popcorn. Be smart: plan ahead and conduct your experiment over several nights.

Which Brand of Microwave Popcorn Pops Fastest?

If we had a dollar for every time we have been asked this question, we would be very, very wealthy. And if we had a dollar for every time we’ve answered it, we would be very, very poor.

First, we don’t mention or talk about brands. You might have a favorite popcorn brand, but we don’t. We love ALL American processed popcorn! But we appreciate that you’re doing a science fair project and you want a quick answer, which brings us to our second point: It’s your science fair project; you have to do your own experimenting and see what happens. The bad news is there’s no quick answer. The good news is that you get to eat lots of popcorn along the way.

General Measuring Rules

• 2 tablespoons of unpopped popcorn kernels will make about a quart popped
• 2 tablespoons = 1/8 cup = 1 ounce
• 8 ounces in a cup
• 4 ounces in ½ cup
• 4 cups in a quart
• 4 tablespoons = 1/4 cup which would yield about 2 quarts popped

Sample Experiments

The following are just a few of the experiments you can do using popcorn.

• Grow, Grow, Grow Your Popcorn   | Grades K-3
• How Much Water Does Popcorn Contain?   | Grades 5-6
• Comparing Brands | Grades 5-8
• Comparing Volumes | Grades 5-8
• The Effect of Moisture on Popcorn  | Grades 5-8
• Temperature Comparison Test   | Grades 5-8
• Popcorn Color Comparison  | Grades 5-8

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