Queensland Science Contest Project IdeasDSC_0447+CategCC-+PrepYr1-KBarrance

If you need some ideas to get you started, here’s a list of interesting topics, inquiry questions and other sources. Be sure to choose a project that is suitable for your age, interests and skills!

  • Some washing powders dissolve faster in hot water than in cold? Does this mean they wash clothes any better?
  • Which flowers make the best acid/base indicators?
  • What is the best way to plant native species along the creek banks?
  • Design a solar device that takes the place of a mains-driven electrical device and test its effectiveness.
  • Testing of consumer products – glues, stain removers, antiseptics, mouthwash, detergents, paper towels, making salt water potable, removal of pollutants…
  • Design and make a device for someone who is physically impaired.
  • How do the numbers, arrangements and sizes of stomata vary with different plants?
  • What conditions are the most favourable for the growth of a particular organism eg yeast, mold, mildew diseases, mushroom production, brine shrimp, algae, rooting cuttings?
  • What is the effect of sound on the growth plants?
  • How do sugar levels vary in plant sap change at different times and dates?
  • What are the effects of electric fields or magnetic fields on the growth of plants?
  • Study the population fluctuations of a particular insect.
  • Conduct a study of the different stimuli that attract mosquitoes.
  • What are the best propeller designs for wind generators?
  • Compare the insulative properties of various natural and commercial insulators.
  • What is the effect of temperature on resistance in electrical conductors?
  • Experimentally explore the photoelectric effect.
  • Study the radiation patterns from different antenna types.
  • Observe and investigate your local urban wildlife.
  • Conduct an ecological study of the animal and plant populations occupying the same tree.
  • Investigate the effects of crowding (with the same or other species) on a certain plant.
  • Study the relationship between soil type and dominant vegetation.
  • Study the relationship between vegetation and insects.
  • Which type of artificial light makes a particular plant grow best?
  • Are “safe” homemade cleansers as effective as commercial cleansers?
  • What shape ice cubes freeze fastest?
  • Does aerating a lawn really make it grow better?
  • Is there a pattern of inheritance in fingerprints? (Hint: you need at least 3 generations.)
  • Investigate the science behind some “old wives tales”.
  • Which naturally occurring substances disrupt an trails?
  • Do all people have the same ability to taste?
  • Imagine you are an endangered animal. Develop an advertising campaign that states the facts about your plight.
  • Make a three minute video about your catchment investigating a particular issue, solution or good news story.
  • Devise an innovative solution to an environmental issue or invent something that improves it.
  • Investigate ways of improving water quality or water resources management.
  • What are the environmental impacts of “dog off leash” areas and how can they be better managed?
  • What are the native plants along the creek that provide food for butterflies?
  • Are there any water bugs that could be used as environmental indicators of the health of the creek?
  • Identify the factors that affect the growth and spread of sees in our area.
  • Devise an effective method to reuse water from the washer and dishwasher (grey water) around the home.
  • How does grey water affect garden plants?
  • Which brand of washing powder produces the best grey water for producing healthy plants?
  • What are the effects of phosphates on aquatic plants?
  • Investigate and address an environmental issue around the school, i.e. week species planted in the gardens, soil erosion, etc.
  • Devise efficient methods for breaking down crude oil in seawater.
  • Design a water conserving garden.
  • What type of foods to composting worms prefer?
  • Compare methods of controlling rainwater run-off on steep land.

More ideas are available at the CSIRO CREST website or at Science Buddies.

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