LRSF Frequently Asked Questions

What must be submitted to apply for entry into LRSF?

Students need to submit the following:
Completed signature page from LRSF "Online" entry system.
LRSF Abstract Form
ISEF Form 1, ISEF Form 1A, ISEF Form 1B (plus any other ISEF forms necessary based on project details).
Printout of ISEF "Rules Wizard" results. (This shows ISEF forms needed.)
Research Plan

Teachers need to submit the following:
Teacher Tally Form (one per school) listing all student names
$5 fee for each STUDENT participating in LRSF

For recent additions or changes to the forms required for entry, please read our recent Newsletters, which are posted on this website.

Why do a science fair project?
The first reason is obvious. A science fair project is a great way to learn about science. It not only teaches you about the mechanics of science, represented by that all-mighty scientific method, but it also teaches you about a particular topic in science. Through your project, you can learn about the effect of pollution on a particular aquatic organism, or how the speed of a bike relates to gear size ... all the while developing the skills to pursue these kinds of questions in other areas of life. In a world that is forever becoming more technical and science-oriented, a science fair project is a great way to help keep pace with the times.

A science fair project isn't just about science. It's about learning how to be curious about the world, how to ask probing questions, and how to present the results of your investigation to a variety of audiences, both verbally and visually. Through the science fairs in which you participate, you can meet a lot of cool people from around your area or around the world who are interested in science and have a story to tell. And did I forget to mention the scholarships, awards, and trips that you can win?

What are my choices of project categories?
Student entrants in the Intel-ISEF compete in one of 17 categories: Animal Science, Behavioral and Social Sciences, Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Planetary Science, Engineering (Electrical and Mechanical), Engineering (Materials and Bioengineering), Energy and Transportation, Environmental Management, Environmental Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Medical and Health Sciences, Microbiology, Physics and Astronomy, and Plant Sciences. At the LRSF, Team projects are placed in a separate Team category. However, at the Intel-ISEF, Team projects are placed into the subject category.

Naturally, some categories attract more entrants than others. At the 2005 Intel-ISEF, for example, about 35% of the 1447 students were entered as teams. Approximately 15% of the projects were in Engineering, 14% in Environmental Sciences, and 11% in Medicine and Health. Projects for the Earth Science, Space Science and Mathematics categories were fewest in number.

By the way, the LRSF is always seeking talented judges in all categories. If someone you know is interested in judging, and has a PhD, MD, or a minimum of six years' professional experience in one of the above categories, please contact Mary Kulp or David Brown at your earliest convenience.

Do I need to spend a lot of money on my project to be successful?
Absolutely not. Some of the best projects can be those that cost the least. What's important in a science fair project is not how much you spend, but how much thought you put into it.

In science, there's a great respect for eloquence. Eloquence here means an idea that answers a question, or investigates an issue, in the simplest, most direct manner possible. If you can do a project for barely any money at all, more power to you.

Also worthy of mention: If your project is chosen as a finalist to represent our region in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, the LRSF Board pays your entry fee as well as transportation and lodging expenses for you and your science teacher to attend this event.

If I need money for my project, where can I find it?
Unfortunately, a science fair student has yet to figure out a way to make money grow on trees. In the meantime, if you need more money than you have or than your parents are willing to spend on a project, there are several ways that you can try to fund your project.

One way is to contact your local university or college and see if there’s a professor there who can help you on your project. Mentors are great for advice and guidance, and they’re also great for cutting down on expenses, especially if they have a lot of the equipment or lab space that you would need to use in your project.

If there isn't a university or college in your area, or you can't find anyone who is already using the equipment or services that you need, then you can solicit monetary donations from local companies. It's ideal if you can approach organizations who operate in a subject area that relates to your project, but that's not necessary at all. When Adam Posner did his project, duPont Chemical gave him $500 even though his project had nothing whatsoever to do with chemicals. To encourage organizations to donate, tell them that they can give the money to you either directly or through the school, if they would prefer. The best way to ask is through writing.

Sometimes an organization isn't in a position to give money, but would be willing to help in some other manner. For example, when Adam was growing rice in his basement for his project during his junior year, he needed a growth light that cost much more than he could afford. He contacted an indoor gardening center in town, and they were kind enough to lend him the lamp. You'd be surprised how much people are willing to donate or loan equipment or services. All you have to do is ask.

Finally, especially if you are undertaking a project that is unique or addresses a local issue, try to get some publicity on it. Publicity about your project can be helpful as you seek funding through any of the means described above. Sometimes, newspapers and TV stations will even let you include contact information at the end of their story for anyone who wants to donate to your project.

In general, if you have the will to pay for your project, you will find the way.

What are the judges looking for?
The judges are looking primarily for three things that can be summarized in the following words: You; The Project Board; and Both.

YOU. For one, they want to see if you've put some thought into your project. Some of the questions they are going to be asking themselves are:

Did this student follow the scientific method?
Did the student try to control for all variables except the one that he/she is trying to investigate?

What sort of background research did the student do?

How well does the student grasp the project idea?

How was the data analyzed?

What are the implications of the results and conclusion?

Does the project present unique concepts, inventions, or approaches to solve problems?

What sort of further research can be done?

The judges want to make sure that you did the project, and that you did it well. This is why it's so important that you do your own project and, if you get help, that you understand how you were helped. Judges can sniff out slackers like rabbits can sniff out carrots. If your project isn't your own work, they'll chomp you up like carrots, too.

THE PROJECT BOARD. The judges will also be looking at that large cardboard display behind you. It's sort of hard to miss.

Does the student have all the required sections: Abstract, Intro, Procedure/Methodology, Results, and Conclusion?
Are there graphs? Are they easy to read, i.e. titled and self-explanatory?

Is the board as a whole easy to read and pleasant to look at?

Is the text large enough?

Part of doing a science fair project means playing the part of interior decorator. Make your hard work shine.

BOTH. Finally, the judges are going to assess the whole picture: you and the board, or the presentation in general.

Is the student poised as he/she presents the project?
Does the student speak too fast or slow?

Does the student make eye contact? Is his/her word choice appropriate?

Is the presentation well-organized?

Does the student interact well with the board as he/she presents?

If you can point to graphs or photos on your board to illustrate a point, do so.

NOTE: Each project oral presentation should last no more than 5 minutes.

Whatever you do, be honest. If a judge asks you a question that you can't answer, tell the judge that, and show a genuine interest in researching the question. Judges can sniff out insincerity as well as they can uncover shortcuts.

Above all, RELAX. Judges are generally very nice people. They are not volunteering their time on a Saturday morning to rip kids like you to shreds. They are interested in your project and want to get to know your work better. Show 'em what you got.

Is it important that I use statistics in my project?
Let's just put it this way: The judges don't necessarily expect that you use statistics, particularly in the Junior Division where that isn't a typical part of the school curriculum. But if you can, it only works in your favor.

Just make sure that you know what test was performed, that you have a general idea of how the test works, and that you understand what the result of the statistical test means. Be careful of presenting possible explanations for a "conclusion" that may not be statistically valid.

Consider having a teacher or other mentor look over your results from a statistical standpoint. Or, visit an informative Web site such as "Web Pages that Perform Statistical Calculations!"

Is it all right to get help on my project?
Absolutely. Rare are the scientists who accomplish all their work on their own. Cooperation and collaboration abound in the sciences. Just make sure that if you do receive help, whether financial or otherwise, that you acknowledge it on your board and wherever else appropriate.

Also, if you were helped in a technical way, such as in the analysis of your data, understand how you were helped. Be able to explain to someone how you were helped and why. As a general rule, always make sure that you are doing the majority of the project and you'll be safe.

How and where can I get help on my project?
Getting help on your project may be easier than you think. Aside from asking your teacher or other teachers in your school, try contacting your local university or college. A business where they are doing work relating to your project can also be a great resource.

If none of these resources are in your community, try reaching out beyond your community's borders. Nowadays, between the phone and email, you can receive guidance from literally anywhere in the world.

When Adam Posner undertook his junior science fair project, in which he had to grow rice in the basement of his home, he sent a form letter requesting help to more than 30 rice researchers throughout the world. Many did not respond, but four did (three in Texas and one in Oregon), and these four wound up being his mentors throughout the duration of the project. All you have to do is ask and be persistent. You'll find the help that you need.

Can I use people and animals in my project?
Yes, you can. However, there are some pretty important guidelines that you have to follow.... If you do not follow these rules, your project can be disqualified.

Visit the Intel ISEF website and use the ISEF Rules Wizard to determine all of the forms that you need to fill out and the precautions that you need to take. The LRSF follows the same rules as the Intel ISEF. You will need to submit a printout of the Rules Wizard with your LRSF entry documents.

One requirement that the ISEF website might not mention, but that the judges will notice, is your use of people in pictures. Do not show photos of people other than yourself without getting their written permission. This goes for a project report as well as the project board. You can draft up a permission form yourself and have the people in your pictures sign it. Also, all pictures on the display must credit the photographer or source of the photographs.

How do I get project pre-approvals required by ISEF Rules?

If the project you have picked must be done at a school or other facility that has an Institutional Review Board (IRB), then they should review the project and give pre-approval. Some schools that hold science fairs have their own Scientific Review Committee (SRC) and they should review those projects requiring SRC pre-approval. If your school does not have an SRC, you may submit all of the required information to our Fair Director for help with the pre-approval process.

What must I submit to obtain pre-approval to begin an LRSF research project?

The completed documents required are LRSF PreApp Form, plus all Forms applicable to the particular project subject as required by the International Rules for Precollege Science Research, including a research proposal. The proposal should cover enough details so the reviewing persons can determine that your project will meet the rules and that there should be little risk of any injury or damage to any person or property. If clarification is needed, you will be contacted for additional information. Remember to get all of the required approval signatures on the forms in advance of beginning your research.

If you can scan in the documents and submit them electronically by e-mail to one of us, it can make the process easier and quicker. Scanned-in materials will be given handling priority over printed materials. Even if you submit documents electronically, be sure to send a printed copy of the documents (with original signatures) to Mr. Joel Gittelson, 2306 Ingleside Dr, Louisville, KY 40205.

If you are doing a Team project involving 2 or 3 students, only one pre-approval is needed. Be sure to make it clear that a team is involved and identify the Team leader.

After I get my pre-approval, what else do I need to do?

Nothing. You are ready to start your project. Remember to keep a copy of your approval notice in your records. You will need it when you apply for entry to any of the science fairs you may compete in during the rest of the school year (LRSF, KY-SEF, IISEF). Do a good job. Learn a lot. Have fun. Be safe. We look forward to seeing your project results at our fair in March.

What are the requirements for my project board?
First of all, the board cannot be more than 30 inches deep, 48 inches wide, or 108 inches tall including the table. The tables are usually about 30 inches high, so take this into account when planning your board. The board needs to be free-standing, and nowhere on your board should you have your school name listed.

Also, there are certain items that you are not allowed to display on your board or at your booth. They are:

Living organisms, including plants
Taxidermy specimens

Preserved vertebrate or invertebrate animals

Human or animal food

Human/animal parts or body fluids

Plant materials

Laboratory/household chemicals, including water

Poisons, drugs, controlled substances or devices

Dry ice or other sublimating substances

Sharp items

Flames or highly flammable materials

Batteries with open-top cells

Operable lasers

Photographs or other visual presentations depicting vertebrates (you can show people, but you need written permission from them)

Animals

Surgical techniques, dissections, etc.

Just use your common sense.

You can involve lights, a TV, and other electrical equipment in your presentation. Keep in mind, though, that you need to use a UL-listed 3-wire extension cord appropriate for the load of your equipment. The maximum allowed power is 120 volts AC, single phase, 60 cycle, 500 watts maximum.

For a complete list of all project board rules, check out Display and Safety Regulations on the Science Service web page. Our regional fair follows the same rules that the International does.

Before judging begins on the day of the fair, fair officials have to check every board to make sure that they fulfill these requirements. If your board does not, your project might be disqualified.

What paperwork do I need to fill out in order to participate in the Louisville Regional Science Fair?
Check out the 2010 Rules and Guidelines page of the Intel ISEF website. The LRSF follows the same guidelines and requires the same forms as the ISEF.

In addition, LRSF also has a project pre-approval form (if needed) and an abstract form that you must complete. You can download copies from here. This process produces one "Signature Page" per project.This page must be printed out, signed, and submitted in printed form with all the other project documents.The student's teacher will gather the materials and submit them within a complete school package.

You must coplete the ISEF Rules wizard and provide a printout of the results with your other submitted paper work.

If your project is a team project, your designated team leader should do the online entry for the whole team. The signature page(s) will need to be signed by each student's parents and the teacher.

Make sure that you send in the forms by the deadline, which is 6:00 PM on Friday, February 5 for the 2010 LRSF. A project pre-approval form is available here if your project subject requires pre-approval. For recent additions or changes to the forms required for entry, please read our recent Newsletters, which are posted on this website. Access to the online entry system may be found on our home page.

There is a $5 entry fee for each student that must accompany the submitted forms.

Are team projects considered inferior to individual projects?
Over the past few years, team projects have become more and more popular in the fair. A team project can be an excellent option, with its own category of awards.

Just make sure that both you and your partner are contributing equally to the effort. Considering that it is a team project, and that the possibility exists for one member to do the majority of the work while the other one does appreciably less, make sure that both you and your partner know what you are talking about.

Do I need to bring lunch the day of the fair?
Bringing lunch might save you some time, but it is not necessary. The UofL food court in the Student Activities Center (SAC) will be open during the fair. Also, there’s a McDonald’s nearby at the corner of Floyd and Warnock, about a five-minute walk away. Food and beverages will not be permitted into the exhibit hall at any time. Only bottle drinking water is acceptable.

Who is Adam Posner, anyway?
A previous Louisville Regional Science Fairs (LRSF) participant, Adam won first place in the Life Sciences division in both 1994 and 1995. In 1994, he went on to win fourth place in Botany at the 45^thInternational Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF, now called the Intel ISEF, or IISEF) in Birmingham, Alabama, and the following year he won first place in Botany and second place in Global Change at the 46^th ISEF in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

Adam served as Student Advisor and Secretary on the LRSF Board until the summer of 2002, prior to entering medical school at the University of Michigan.

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Page last updated October 20, 2009

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