1. Select your project.
In order to have a successful science project you will need
to pick the right topic. Congratulations in purchasing this kit and choosing
your topic. This is the first step in doing a successful science project
2. Decide what question you wish to answer.
Prepare a simple question, which using this kit you will be
able to create experiments to find an answer for.
Examples:
Which launches the same projectile further: a trebuchet or a catapult?
Does the weight of the counter weight affect the distance a projectile is launched using a trebuchet?
Does the length of the sling on the trebuchet affect the horizontal velocity of the projectile?
3. Do the project yourself!
You may have to answer questions from judges and explain how
your project works. If you did not complete the project yourself you will not
be able to respond confidently and correctly. Of course it is okay to have help
from your parents and teachers, but make sure you are involved in all aspects
of the project.
4. Start your project as soon as possible.
The more time you spend on the project the better the
project will be. You will be able to thoroughly research, build the project,
carry out the experiment and gather your data.
5. Research your project.
Gather as much information as possible on trebuchets and
catapult. This kit is an excellent start. However there is a lot of interesting
information on the Internet and at your local and school Libraries. Books on
physics, medieval times will help you with the more advanced experiments using
the siege engines. Ask the Librarian if you need help finding this information.
6. Design your project.
Using the question you prepared above state what the aim of
the experiment is. You can also make a Hypothesis. That is you can make an
educated guess on what you think the results of the experiment will be.
The next step is plan how you will carry out the experiment.
Keep in mind at every stage in the experiment sources of errors.
Once you have performed the experiment you will have to
present your data. A good way will be to use tables and graphs. You will have
to decide which is best for your data. Using the table and graph you can then
analyze your results.
7. Assemble your apparatus
You will need to get all the equipment you need to do the
experiment. Also select a place to carry out the experiment. You will need to
record your data and secure help from family and friends if needed to complete
the experiment. A sample data log is included on the back cover.
8. Perform the experiment.
Using the method you prepared in step 3 conduct your
experiment. You will need to record all your observations. You should also take
pictures or do drawings. These will be great for your display for the judges.
9. Analyze your data and deduce a conclusion.
You should organize your notes so they are clear and easy to
follow.
Organize your data into tables and graphs. What did the
results of the experiment show? Was your original hypothesis correct?
10. Compose a report
You will now need to write a report on your project. In this
report you will explain how you carried out your experiment and your results.
Include how you designed this project and information you learned about the
medeval siege engines. Include your tables and graphs as well.
11. Set up your display.
You will need to have an informative and eye catching
display to do well in this competition. Your project has to stand out from all
the others and gain the attention of the judges. The display should be
uncluttered and organized. It should have what you learned about trebuchets or
catapult, what you wanted to find out in your experiment, your hypothesis, how
you carried out the experiment, you data and what you learned from the
experiment and of course your written report.
12. Practice doing your presentation
You will have to present the project to the judges. Practice
your presentation, in front of friends, family even in front of the mirror. The
more you practice the smoother and more confident you will sound. This will
also help you to be less nervous since you will know you are prepared.
13. Be confident
Present your work in a calm confident manner. Be sure to
dress neatly.
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