Award Winning Science Fair Projects
    "...In the decades since the challenge to go to the moon, K-12 science educators have placed a greater emphasis on science projects directed at building skills in the methods of research. In many areas of the country, school, regional and state science fairs allow students to communicate their work to others and to compete with other students in similar categories. However, these opportunities aren't universally available and while some educators and students would like to participate, they are not sure how to get started. Even with the opportunity, one of the greatest challenges for a student is deciding on a topic and having a feel for the science fair process.Within this work, Sam Levine has assembled a guide to help both students and educators navigate the science fair process from idea conception, to the myriad of required forms and approvals, to the final presentation. Having participated in a number of science fairs and winning first place in his category at the 2011 Massachusetts State Science and Engineering Fair (MSSEF), Sam is an authority in the process and has gleaned a great deal of knowledge that he willingly shares with readers who want to know more about the opportunities and processes required for a successful project.    As mentioned previously, one of questions that students always ask at the outset is, "what topics should I consider"?Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of this work is the collection of abstracts contributed by all of the participants in the 2011 MSSEF. These abstracts offer a glimpse into the broad expanse of topics that may be investigated as part of an independent high school research project.    With this work, Sam Levine has given a gift to students, educators and administrators that I am sure will be a valuable asset as students pursue their independent research projects. These projects will introduce them to the skills and thinking processes that will serve them well in their future educational and career endeavors. "