Science Reference Guides

Chemistry and Physics Experiments --
Selected Resources for Students

Science Reference Section
Science, Technology and Business Division
Library of Congress

Adams, Richard. Physics Projects for Young Scientists. New York, Franklin Watts, 2000. 128 p.
   QC33.P48 2000
   The book breaks down real world experiences while bringing in the physics. Provides ways to expand the projects to be more in depth.

Bochinski, Julianne. The Complete Handbook of Science Fair Projects. New York, Wiley, 1996. 221 p.
   Q182.3.B63 1996
   The book discusses the process of project development from the presentation to the judging.

Bonnet, Robert L. Science Fair Projects with Electricity & Electronics. New York, Sterling Pub., 1996. 95 p.
   QC527.2.B66 1996
   These projects are appropriate for a science fair setting. Some explanation of what is happening is included as well as some thought provoking questions at the end of each experiment.

Cobb, Vicki. See for Yourself: More Than 100 Experiments for Science Fairs and Projects. New York, Scholastic Reference, 2001. 192 p.
   Q182.3.C62 2001
   All of the projects are well outlined, include some explanation of phenomena and also extra things to think about. The book also gives a general idea of the scientific method.

Cox, Shirley. Chemistry. Vero Beach, Florida, Rourke Publications, Inc., 1992. 48 p.
   Q164.C73 1992
   This book is a very good guide to the planning and execution of a science fair project in Chemistry. This book also explains the difference between actual projects and demonstrations.

Experiment Central (all four volumes). Ed. John T. Tanacredi and John Loret. Detroit, U-X-L, 2000. 4 v.
   Q164.E96 2000
   The different science projects are identified by area of study. The experiments are within chapters that contain general information about the principles involved. Suggestions on designing your own experiment are also included.

Gardner, Robert. Science Fair Projects-Planning, Presenting, Succeeding. Springfield, NJ, Enslow Publishers, 1999. 104 p.
   Q182.3.G39 1999
   This book provides details for the implementation of a science fair project. Some examples of projects are included, but the book focuses mostly on the overall process. Also try these exciting titles by the same authors:
    Science Projects about the Physics of Sports <QC73.4.G375 2000>
    Experiments with Balloons <Q163.G3915 1995>
    Experiments with Bubbles <QC183.G26 1995>
    Experiments with Light and Mirrors <QC360.G368 1995>
    Science Project Ideas in the House <Q164.G34 2002>.
   The above titles give some examples of possible science fair projects.

Krieger, Melanie. How to Excel in Science Competitions. Berkeley Heights, NJ, Enslow Publishers, 1999. 128 p.
   Q182.3.K75 1999
   This book is very focused on more competitive science fair exhibitions such as Westinghouse. The text gives details of the process of implementing and completing a project.

Mebane, Robert. Water & Other Liquids. New York, Twenty-first Century Books, 1995. 64 p.
   QC145.24.M43 1995
    This book includes some explanation of the concepts being studied. To use in a science fair setting some more research regarding phenomena would need to be conducted. The experiments would also have to be expanded. Also try Air & Other Gases <QC161.M43 1995> by the same author.

Moje, Steven W. 100 Science Experiments with Paper. New York, Sterling Publishers, 1998. 128 p.
   Q164.M573 1998
   The experiments in this book can be combined or expanded to create fun and safe science fair experiments. Pilger,

Mary Anne. Science Experiments Index for Young People. Englewood, CO, Libraries Unlimited, 1996. 504 p.
    Q182.3.P55 1996
   This is a good resource for students who know what subject they would like to concentrate on for their project. The text is an index of over 1500 resources, divided into different subject headings.

VanCleave, Janice Pratt. A+ Projects in Chemistry. New York, Wiley, 1993. 233 p.
   QD38.V37 1993
   This book includes an explanation of the scientific method as well as suggestions for how to proceed with an experiment. The author also includes suggestions of how to expand the projects to be more thought provoking.

Vecchione, Glen. 100 Amazing Make-it-Yourself Science Fair Projects. New York, Sterling Publishers, 1994. 224 p.
   Q164.V43 1994
   This book includes projects that cover a range of difficulty and sophistication, while using only household items. Try this authors other text 100 Award-Winning Science Fair Projects <182.3.V428 2001> for some more suggestions for experiments.

Wee, Patricia Hachten. Science Fair Projects for Elementary Schools. Lanham, MD, Scarecrow Press, 1998. 237 p.    Q182.3.W44 1998
   This book outlines the steps that need to be taken to plan and execute a science fair project. It also gives detailed examples of how to complete a project.

World Book's Young Scientist (all ten volumes). Chicago, World Book, 1997. 10 v.
   Q121.W664 1997
   Provides an introduction to the basic principles of scientific investigation. Volumes 1-9 each represent different subject areas. Vol. 1 is space technology and computers. Vol. 2 is light & electricity and magnetic power. Vol. 3 is atoms & molecules and gases. Vol. 4 is planet earth and water. Vol. 5 is the living world and plants. Vol. 6 is animals. Vol. 7 is the human body and communications. Vol. 8 is energy and conservation. Vol. 9 is construction and machines. Volume 10 is a student guide, which includes an overview of the scientific method and practices of modern day scientists. There is also a full index included in volume 10.

Compiled by Jessica Parr