We’ve participated in six science fairs over the years, and honestly, not much has changed since I did them 30 years ago! As a science fair judge, I’ve seen some show-stopping titles (even some with poop emojis👎) and boards in every color imaginable, from classic tones to bright yellows.
My best advice? Let your student own the process. If they want glitter around their letters or tiny bees glued to the board, let them! (Just draw the line at vulgar emojis.) The more they make it their own, the better.
Now, think of the board like a storybook. The title should grab a science fair judge attention, but the rest should guide the viewer from the initial question to the conclusion, left to right, like reading a story.
LEFT PANEL
Problem:
- What question are you trying to answer or problem you are solving?
- Keep it clear and specific
- Example: How does the amount of sunlight affect plant growth?
Hypothesis:
- What did you think would happen and why?
- Example: If plants receive more sunlight, then they will grow taller because sunlight is needed for photosynthesis.
Background Research:
- Key facts you learned before starting
- Define important vocabulary
- Cite sources (books, websites, experts)
- List your variables of what you changed, what you measured, what stayed the same
Materials
- List all materials used
CENTER PANEL
Project Title:
- It should be big, bold, and easy to read from 6–10 feet away
- Include your name, grade, and school (if required)
Procedure:
- Step-by-step instructions
- Numbered list
- Clear enough for someone else to repeat
Data Collection:
- How often did you collect data?
- What tools did you use?
Results (Graphs & Data):
- Charts, graphs, or tables
- Label axes clearly
- Keep visuals large and uncluttered
RIGHT PANEL
Conclusion:
- What did you learn?
- Was your hypothesis supported?
- Why do you think this happened?
Real-World Connection :
- Why does this experiment matter to you!?
- How is this used in real life or science careers?
- Future Questions / Improvements
- What would you change next time?
- What new questions do you have?
DESIGN TIPS
- Use consistent colors and fonts
- Headings should be larger than body text
- Leave white space—don’t overcrowd
- Use photos or diagrams when possible
- Avoid long paragraphs
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
- QR code to a video of you performing the experiment
- The prototype that you used to test your project (if allowed)
- Spotlight a scientist related to your topic
- Fun fact box that you learned during your project.
Let me know if this is helpful! I’d love to see pictures of your students projects!
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