What do you wonder about? What are you curious about? Turn those wonderings and curiosities into testable questions and conduct a science investigation!
What can you do?
In the science inquiry project, you can:
- Design a science investigation to test a question.
- Analyze and interpret results to answer your question.
- Develop knowledge and understanding about what you were investigating.
These are just some of the many ways you can participate in this project.
Project information
Get started with 4-H'ers in your area
- Contact your local 4-H office for more info.
Get started on your own
- Begin your project learning with the science inquiry project resource guide.
- Reflect on your project and what you've learned using 4-H record keeping.
Project opportunities near you
Get in touch with your local 4-H office to learn about science inquiry project events and activities in your area.
Interested in getting involved as a science inquiry project volunteer?
Contact your local 4-H office or learn more about volunteering in 4-H.
Resources for supporting youth in science inquiry
Kitchen Science - Am I Foaming at the Mouth? with supporting video
Driven to Discover - Extension natural resources program
Pollinators in the science classroom - University of Minnesota Bee Lab
Fair information
What does it mean to show at the fair?
For 4-H'ers, local and state showcase events (like the Minnesota State Fair) are not just fun events. They provide youth opportunities to exhibit the knowledge and skills they've gained throughout the year– and to continue their learning.
Contact your local 4-H office for science inquiry project showcase opportunities near you.
Exhibit ideas and judging criteria
Get exhibit ideas and find out what the judge is looking for in the evaluation sheet (Google Doc).
Reviewed in 2026