I am trying to write my bibliography for my science fair project. Three of my sources were people I talked to. How do I write up a person as a bibliography source? —Cara

The Chicago Manual of Style provides an answer:

References to interviews that have not been published or braodcast should include the name of the interviewee; the name of the interviewer; a description of the type of interview conducted; the place or date of the interview; and, if applicable, the depository of a transcript." (Depository: where, if any, there is a written or recorded record of the interview.)

Examples:

• Roemer, Merle A. Interview by author. Tape recording. Millington, Md., 26 July 1973.

• Peterson, Tim G. Interview by author. Long Beach, Calif., 1 August 1989.

What is supposed to be on the showboard display? —Anna

A section of the SciFair.org Web site is devoted to the display board and advice on how best to present your information. It can be found at http://www.scifair.org/articles/display.shtml.

Another Web site that has a step-by-step procedure for creating a display board to best present your project is at http://www.super-science-fair-projects.com/elementary-science-fair-projects.html.

If you are interested in purchasing display boards, Showboard, Inc. has a number of economical options. See http://www.showboard.com/.

How could I test the question: Does sleep affect your grades? —Sarah

This is a tough subject to test. Remember to be very specific about your control and the variables.

When you have a test and volunteers in mind, please be sure to review the information with your teacher and/or fair director. Using human subjects involves receiving approval for the testing before you start. You may review the full text of the Intel ISEF Rules and Guidelines regarding the use of human subjects at www.sciserv.org/isef/students/rules_regulations.asp

Would this question make an effective science fair project: What effect do different liquids have on bean germination when used in hydroponics? —Emily

Unfortunately, our judges can't answer questions about specific project ideas. However, we have some suggestions that may help you get started.

If you want to learn more about your specific research topic, first check with your teacher or a librarian. Then try using your favorite Internet search engine to find Web sites that cover this scientific topic or area of research. Think of three or four key words that will help your search. Often, reviewing a few of the sites you initially find will enable you to narrow your search. Your teacher or librarian can often help in determining these key words or even helping in the search.

Here are a few Internet resources that may also be helpful:

• Science Buddies — Offers help finding a science project idea, detailed guidance and examples for completing a science project, and expert advice from scientists.
• www.madsci.org — An interactive science teaching and community outreach tool staffed and maintained by volunteer scientists and engineers from around the world.
• www.scifair.org: The Ultimate Science Fair Resource — Answers questions about project steps, writing reports, or how to do a project board.
• www.stemnet.nf.ca/sciencefairs/ — Specializes in helping you get a science project idea.
• www.sciencenews.org: Science News magazine — Search Science News Online to locate relevant articles and resources that may help you develop a project idea or help you begin your literature search.

To learn more about how to take your research question to the next step in creating a science project, we suggest that you also visit our related Science Service Web site at www.sciserv.org/isef/students/.