United Counties Science Fair - General Information

Why should I enter the Science Fair?

You will learn something about a topic that interests you.

You could meet people with similar interests.

You might win one of the many great prizes and trips.

It will look good on your résumé when applying for a job or higher education.

You could have fun!!

Do I need to be a "brain" or know a lot about science?

NO! Lots of ordinary kids win prizes. Hard work is needed. Parents and teachers can help. Projects can be quite simple, eg. What brand of paper towel is strongest?

What kinds of projects can be submitted?

Your project can be either:
"Experimental" (performed to answer a particular question)
OR
"A study" (an information search from observing nature, books, magazines, experts, etc.).

You may choose from:

• Life Science
• Physical Science
• Engineering or
• Computers.

What are the Prizes?

You might win any of the following:

• An all expenses paid trip to the Canada Wide Science Fair
• A calculator
• A book prize
• A prize of money
• A trophy
• One of many other prizes!

Who runs the show?

The Cornwall section of the Chemical Institute of Canada started the local Science Fair in 1976.
There are 12 dedicated volunteers who run the science fair. They meet monthly from Sept. to June. They welcome anyone with an interest in education and science to join the team!

Who are the Judges?

There are approximately 70 judges who are experts in a variety of areas including life sciences, physical sciences, engineering and computers. Some of them are teachers, some engineers, some technicians. They can provide valuable information on the topic, as well as related careers.
If you would like to volunteer a Friday evening and a Saturday in late March, contact the chairperson.

What else does the committee do?

We hold special contests, such as:

• pasta bridge
• newspaper bridge
• egg drop vehicle
• mousetrapmoble
• elastic powered vehicle
• Rubik's Cube
• straw arm
• paper airplane
• toothpick bridge
• popsicle stick wheel
• windmobile

and special competitions such as:

• Science Olympics
• Senior Science Quiz
• Wall Display Contest (for students in grades 1 through 5).

and put on special displays such as:

Fun with Physics, Science & Gymnastics, Amazing Chemistry and Atomic Energy.

(If you have seen a good, live, science show somewhere, please let us know.)

Why Does the Committee do all this?

• To encourage students to explore some of the many fields of Science
• To help students develop creativity, critical thinking skills and deductive reasoning.
• To have students consider lifetime vocations in Science & Technology.
• To stimulate students to develop an understanding of the benefits and limitations of Science and Technology in our world.
• To increase public awareness of Science and Technology.
• To SHOW OFF a lot of GOOD KIDS doing GOOD THINGS, in these days of criticism and negativity.

Where does the money for Prizes and Trips Come From?

About 100 annual contributions are received from individuals, groups, corporations and institutions. The amounts range from ten dollars to thousands of dollars. All contributions are tax deductible. We are a registered, non-profit charitable organization.