How to Select a 5th Grade Science Project

When determining what to select for 5th grade science projects, there are several factors that should be considered. What are the teaching objectives? Is the project practical for this age group? What is the cost factor involved? Is the project simple enough for students in this age group to complete successfully and learn from? If the project is to be entered into a science fair, is it portable? Perhaps most importantly, will the student have fun completing the project?

The cost factor must be kept to a level that the student or the student's parents can easily afford. Some schools may have scholarships available, but not all will. In high poverty areas this is especially important, so take advantage of any financial aid that is available. Being eliminated from competition based on the lack of financial ability may teach the student a lesson, but not the desired one. Lessons learned at this age will affect the student's future attitude toward learning. Completing 5th grade science projects can enhance a student's curiosity and willingness to learn in later grades. Relatively simple projects relating to physics principles or global warming might well foster an interest in more advanced projects later.

Learning during school hours is, quite often, not enjoyable for students. Self-directed activities such as the 5th grade science projects allow the kids to learn from involvement with hands-on projects, and that type of learning is shown to be retained by the student. Students involved in science fairs build friendships with other students and develop strong relationships with teachers and other leaders, making this type of event a valuable teaching tool.

National attention is currently focused on student achievement in lower grades, with particular emphasis being placed on reading, math, and science. Opportunities like 5th grade science projects allow students to explore areas that are not always well covered in classes. Placing an emphasis on the core subjects (including science) beginning in 1st grade can foster an increased awareness of the relationship between subjects. Science and math are closely related, and generally success in one may lead to success in the other. Science fairs provide the student with multiple learning opportunities in those areas if the projects selected meet the criteria outlined above.

Career Opportunities With a Computer Science Degree

A career in computers is still a popular choice even in the current recessive economic times we are experiencing. With advances in computer technology and network communications leading to continuous developments, the requirement for trained professionals and skilled graduates is always in high demand. A computer science major is popular choice for students today as this field remains at the forefront of expanding technology. Students with a computer science degree will always be a hot
candidate in the job market.

Computer science involves the host of sub-divisions ranging from theory to development, programming to computing solutions. A computer science degree provides a foundation that prepares students to constantly adapt to new ideas and technologies. Computer scientists are required to design and create software, problem shoot as and when needs arise, process and store data, devise new and effective security methods and most exciting of all - develop new and innovative ways of using computers. Professionals in computer science have pushed the boundaries of science and technology to enter the fray of robotics and digital forensics - fields that had not even existed a few decades ago.

A computer science degree demands an aptitude for math and analytical thought. Students interested in a career in computer science should consider going for a BCS degree to qualify for jobs in this field. A good Bachelors degree in computer sciences will prepare students in implementing and designing software. Software development now entails new areas such as interface design, web development, and mobile computing. Once entrenched in the work force with enough practical work experience, a Masters degree in computer science can help improve job prospects and further your specialization in a particular field.

If your Bachelor of Computer Science degree pushes you towards a career in computer solutions, you would be applying all your theoretical knowledge towards solving computing issues and problems. This field would require a higher degree; even a Ph.D. and a research position in a developmental laboratory. If you choose to get into computer development, you have the option of getting into an entrepreneurial position and maybe even starting your own company that specializes in the same.

There are also a number of new careers that demand a CS degree such as web development, information technology, computing management, information security and database administration. Web development is the latest trend and almost every company today has a website. Web developers in turn create and maintain these sites using the latest technological know-how and marketing strategies. The communications industry has pushed the boundaries of information technology. Computer science graduates are now employed with mobile companies to develop faster and better ways of communicating. Many MBA graduates now also specialize in computers and programming. Employers are always on the lookout for those with multiple skills and training and career success is a given for these students. Database administrators are also in demand, as more and more companies require their services to effectively collect and interpret information that will help the company to strategize efforts and move forward. Another fast-growing prospect in this field is the subject of online security-predicted to play a strategic role in the future of computer technology. Information security comes into play with regard to online shopping, Internet banking and privacy management.

A computer science degree will therefore prepare you for a challenging career in a variety of jobs. Armed with a solid educational background, the choices are then up to you to make depending on your aptitude and interests.

California College San Diego (CCSD) has trained graduates for new careers in high demand jobs since 1978. This California College, located in San Diego, offers Associate, Bachelor and Graduate degrees in healthcare, business, computer and graphic arts. CCSD also provides accelerated degrees with its FastFlex option. In-demand college degree programs offered by CCSD are strictly accredited to meet the accreditation standards set by U.S. Dept. of Ed.