Project Ideas
* The Bending Sunflower:
* Hypothesis: Sunflowers will bend their stems towards a light source.
* Materials: Sunflower seeds, pots, soil, a window or artificial light source.
* Procedure:
1. Plant sunflower seeds in pots and place them in a dark room.
2. Once the seedlings emerge, place the pots near a window or under an artificial light source.
3. Rotate the pots every few days so the light source is always on a different side.
4. Observe and record the bending of the stems towards the light over several days.
* Analysis: Compare the growth of the sunflower seedlings in the different light conditions. Do they bend towards the light source?
* The "Light Maze":
* Hypothesis: Plants will navigate a maze to reach a light source.
* Materials: Small plants, a maze constructed from cardboard or wood, a light source.
* Procedure:
1. Construct a simple maze with a light source at the end.
2. Place a plant at the start of the maze.
3. Observe the plant's growth pattern over time. Does it grow in the direction of the light, navigating the maze?
* Analysis: Compare the growth patterns of plants placed in the maze with plants that have access to direct light.
* The "Plant Compass":
* Hypothesis: Plants will align their leaves perpendicular to the direction of light.
* Materials: Small plants, a clear container, a strong light source.
* Procedure:
1. Place a plant in a clear container with a light source on one side.
2. Observe the orientation of the leaves over time. Do they align themselves perpendicular to the light source?
* Analysis: Compare the leaf orientation of plants exposed to light with plants in the dark.
Tips for Success
* Choose the right plant: Sunflowers and other fast-growing plants are good choices for this type of experiment.
* Control variables: Make sure you are only changing the light source and keeping other factors (water, temperature) constant.
* Document everything: Take pictures or videos of your plants, and record observations in a journal. This helps you track progress and analyze your results.
* Be patient: Phototropism takes time, so don't expect immediate results.
Safety Note:
* Always supervise children when working with plants and light sources.
* Use a lamp or grow light specifically designed for plant use.
Science Fair Considerations:
* Make a display: Create a visually appealing presentation with posters, charts, and pictures of your experiment.
* Present your findings: Practice explaining your results in a clear and concise way.
* Answer questions: Be prepared to discuss the science behind your project and answer any questions the judges may have.
