Constructing the Display Board

The format of a science fair display board parallels the components of a simple science report: title, statement of problem, procedure (methods-materials), results, and conclusion. The diagram below shows the typical position of these components on a science fair display board. An explanation of each component is also provided from Cothron, Giese, & Rezba, Students and Research: Practical Strategies for Science Classrooms and Competitions.

The exhibit size is limited to 30 inches deep, front to back; 48 inches wide, side to side, and 108 inches high including the height of the table. A commercial display board may be used, and easily fits these requirements, or the student may build his/her own display. Any equipment accompanying the exhibit must fit in this allotted space. Pictures or diagrams of larger equipment are an excellent alternative.

There are many methods for constructing display boards. Appropriate materials include plywood, Plexiglas, reinforced poster board, corrugated cardboard and Styrofoam sheets. The three-panel board may be hinged or reinforced with tape. Inexpensive project display boards are available in many large office supply stores or craft stores.

All lettering should be neat and legible and spelling should be carefully checked. The display board will be more eye-catching if complementary colors that enhance photographs and display materials are used. White commercial display boards can work just as well as the brightly colored ones for neat, visually exciting exhibits.

Pictures of your experimental set-up and procedure are a great way to add “eye-appeal” to your display. Pictures of items which are not allowed at the Fair (plants, animals, soil, etc.) are a good way to include them in the display. All pictures on your display should have a photo credit as to the source. If all pictures are taken by the same person, a single photo credit stating this is acceptable. Students must have written permission to use pictures of ANY person, except for the researcher him/herself. The Human Subjects Form (Form 4) may be used for this and must be available during the safety inspection.

Finally, plan the display carefully. Remember, it is the advertisement for the project. A sloppy display will influence the judges and the public. This may not be fair, since the research displayed may be exemplary, but it is realistic.

Additional information on the project display can be found on page 3 of the Intel ISEF “Student Handbook” at http://www.sciserv.org/isef/document/hbk2006.pdf.