Give young scientists the power to become world-class scientists with these intriguing projects that span topics from earth science and chemistry, through biology and physics, all the way up to sound waves. From baking soda and vinegar volcanoes to understanding soundwaves, these experiments combine formal scientific methods with hands-on experimentation for maximum impact!
Students can explore how a self-supporting bridge works with this engineering project inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s 500-year-old design. Additionally, this fascinating physics experiment allows them to investigate surface tension and density.
Water Filtration
Learning about science as young teens expands their horizons as scientists. Entering a science fair provides them with an opportunity to focus on one field or area of science; this blog post contains five 7th grade science fair project ideas covering biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy and environmental science respectively.
Students can create models of their favorite plants using soil, seeds and water in various combinations. Students can experiment with water’s properties such as freezing or floating; investigate acid rain’s effect on plants; or create a simple science project about greenhouse effect by studying how it changes when heated up.
Texting Glossary
At this age, students can undertake testable projects that demonstrate scientific concepts. Many schools allow 7th graders to choose their own experiment for science fair or school-sponsored events; curricula also encourage them to create clear questions and hypotheses which provide results which can be measured and verified.
Some 7th grade science experiments involve exploring light, such as creating a kaleidoscope or investigating how the speed of light varies with distance. Other projects focus on bacteria’s influence on various foods or how to create a glow-in-the-dark stick.
No matter their topic of research, 7th graders should create an impressive display board to document and showcase their research process and any key information gleaned. A three-sided corrugated board typically displays problem and hypothesis on one side, procedure in the middle and results (including graphs or charts) on the right side.
Biofilm
Seventh grade is when students first begin exploring more complex scientific concepts. While 7th graders can still create simple experiments like building a volcano or potato battery, they may want to expand their thinking to include experiments involving glow-in-the-dark materials, unexpected chemical reactions or food.
Bacteria that accumulate on teeth form biofilm, which can lead to gum disease, cavities and other dental health concerns. With this project, 7th graders will study biofilm formation processes and devise methods of decreasing its formation.
People often turn to caffeine when feeling lethargic, but does it really improve performance? Through this experiment, 7th graders will explore whether caffeine enhances memory and performance.
Caffeine
Baking soda volcano and potato battery experiments are popular methods for introducing students to scientific concepts, but these aren’t the only eye-catching experiments you can use to engage your classmates with science.
Some students enjoy conducting product experiments, such as seeing how long batteries last or which laundry detergent removes stains more effectively than another brand. Although such tests have their place in science class, such ventures don’t make for suitable science fair projects since these require in-depth background research before any experiments take place.
Give students an opportunity to delve deep into the world of caffeine with this project that asks them to observe its effects on body systems such as pulse rate, temperature and respiration rates. Students can also experiment with other stimulants like cola or energy drinks.
Plant Growth
Plants play a vital role in ecosystems around the globe and produce life-sustaining oxygen through photosynthesis, making them essential life sources. Students studying biology, ecology or other science fields will find numerous plant-related science fair projects at this age to pursue.
Test soil types to see their impact on plant growth is easily quantifiable, enabling students to compare data in ways that are easily understandable. Students can also use this project as an opportunity to record and present accurate information using graphs or other formats that will impress judges at science fairs.
Discovering that oil floats on water is often one of the first lessons children learn, so this jar experiment provides an engaging hands-on lesson on density and wave action. Furthermore, it introduces them to taxonomy by giving them an opportunity to step into Linnaeus’ footsteps and classify plants themselves!