Independent student projects can be an interdisciplinary experience, combining skills from science, engineering, social studies, math, technology, and language arts. There is an opportunity for students to investigate questions or issues that are relevant to their local community. Projects allow students to experience all Mass STE Practices, in addition to math and literacy skills among others.
Each student will have a unique experience during their project, and these personal journeys are an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Completing an independent research project can build self-confidence and provide a sense of fulfillment.
MSEF is here to help. Email us at [email protected] with questions, program requests, or for help in connecting with your regional representatives.
Explore the Student Science Fair Ready page HERE for resources – many that are FROM students FOR students.
Check out the links below for more resources you can use and adapt to support student work.
We suggest making a copy or downloading the materials for classroom use. Email if you need help with access at [email protected].
Scientists and engineers often hit road blocks in their work. It is essential to remind students that these stumbles are part of the process and the ability to think critically, problem-solve, and show resilience are key steps to both a science fair project – and life! MSEF and your regional representatives are here to help. Reach out to
[email protected] for support or connection.
Coaching opportunities »
To stay updated on MSEF news and opportunities, join our mailing list!
Join our Science Fair Ready Network Facebook group – exclusive for Massachusetts teachers. Join a community of other teachers to ask questions and learn about special opportunities. Request to join HERE.
If you are new to Science Fair, we suggest starting at www.scifair.com/science-fair-ready. This section will provide you with links about the steps of leading student projects including resources and best practices.
At www.scifair.com/fairs you can find the overview of the steps you and your students will need to follow to participate in the regional and/or state fairs like deadlines and paperwork. Reach out to [email protected] anytime for help.
If a school is unable to fill this role, students may work with a non-profit or municipal organizationbut should reach out to [email protected] or their region to discuss.
To ensure student and community safety, as well as a fair and equitable process, there are several potential adult roles for student projects.
At all levels, both Middle School and High School, students must have permission from the named adults before starting a project. MSEF and ISEF use the term ‘Adult Sponsor’ to refer to the adult who is overseeing project work. In most cases this is the teacher, but not always. Since MSEF participation is sponsored by the school, we have added clarity on the role of the Teacher AND the Adult Sponsor in case these roles are filled by different people.
In schools across the state, there is no standard convention for terms for the STEM process or for the Science & Engineering Fair project components.
MSEF and collaborating teachers drafted a glossary of terms. We hope this helps! Please share with students as needed.
Students in grades 6-12 who take part in an independent science/engineering research project as part of an established out-of-school non-profit or municipal program in Massachusetts, (e.g. Big Brothers/Big Sisters, libraries, or nature centers) are eligible to compete in the MSEF statewide high school Science & Engineering Fair as a direct entry through that program. The teacher/adult sponsor of record for the student(s) must be a representative of the out-of-school program.
Note: if the student’s school has an existing Science Fair program, coordination must happen between MSEF, the Region, and school leadership in advance of participation due to participation project limits at the regional fairs.
Consult the Student Eligibility Policy for more details HERE.
Most MSEF resources are available as hyperlinks – often in Google Drive. Many teachers use Google Classroom or a similar platform to organize resources for their students. We suggest downloading or using the ‘Make a Copy’ option to create your own version of the document. This will help students access the links who might firewalls setup to external systems.
Let us know if you need any help with access.
MSEF staff are available for support and troubleshooting. Please let us know if you have questions or would like assistance navigating the process. We can also connect you with your Regional representatives.
There are many projects that can be low or no-cost, but some projects would benefit from additional resources and equipment.
Some teachers use services like DonorsChoose or ‘Clear the List’ programs.
The Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers has several funding opportunities like the GET program.