This class is designed to instruct students how to prepare an experimental design science project. It works with any science curriculum you may be using.  Students may have past experience with surveys or collection-based projects, but this class is only experimental design. The class will begin with a study of scientific method and the basics of a science project.  The goal will be to have a project entered into the McWane Science Center Home School Science Fair on May 11, 2010.  The entry fee for that will be $20, paid directly to McWane (unless the student is already enrolled in McWane labs which includes the science fair).  A copy of the guidelines and requirements will be provided for each student. The students will be guided through the different aspects of each of the components of this project’s requirements, which will include: locating a topic (usually the most difficult part), a research log book, bibliography, hypothesis, procedure and a minimum 700 word typed paper.   The student will need a 1 inch 3 ring binder with paper to take notes on and possibly dividers for organization of the handouts. Ultimately they will need a foam backboard with labels and some form of a log book. (Available at office supply stores or teacher supply stores.)  More details will be given as the class proceeds. Certain restrictions of types of projects are given by McWane, so the class will discuss possible ideas and where to locate suggestions for projects. Parents are welcome, especially the first class so everyone can get a firm understanding of what is required to complete the project.  This class will be good character building practice for meeting the deadlines required at the higher grade levels and for life. This should be a fun and interesting hands on learning experience for all!

Instructor: Lyn Gunter, B.S. in Biology Samford University, Graduate classes in Education at UAB, A.C.S.I. Professional Educator's Certification in Secondary Education: Biology, General Science, Middle school Math teacher 7th, 8th  at Shades Mountain Christian School1990-1993, Middle school Science teacher 7th, 8th at Shades Mountain Christian School, 1993-2007,High school Science: Human Physiology 11th,12th teacher at Shades Mountain Christian School 2000-present
Location: Chapel at Shades Mountain Independent Church (where we have faculty meetings) 2281 Old Tyler Road, Hoover 35226
Dates/Time: seven Wednesdays from 1:30-3pm.  Feb 3, Feb17, 3/10, 3/24, 4/7, 4/21  last class will be Wed May 5 or  Thurs 6th and involves setting up and leaving project for grading with pick up at the end of the day.
Cost: $60.00 for the first child, $50.00 for each additional.