Investigatory projects can be done by manipulating variables, which are quantities that change in an experiment or investigation. A variable is any factor, trait, or condition that can exist in differing amounts or types. An experiment usually has three kinds of variables: independent, dependent, and controlled.

• Independent variable – is a type of variable, which we can control and it does not rely on any other variables in an experiment. Speaking of cause and effect, the independent variable is your cause. For example, in a room, the electrical switch position that controls a light is an independent variable.

• Dependent variable – are variables that are affected. When it comes to an experiment, dependent variables are what you change or measure. It is dependent on the other variables of the experiment. For example, in the room, the status of the light (On / Off) is a dependent variable, dependent on the position of the switch.

• Controlled variable – are variables that need to remain constant. Keeping these variables constant is required to ensure accurate results in an experiment. If the experiment is without control, then one cannot be sure of the cause and effect. For example, in this case, the electrical main switch in a home. The control variable has to be maintained in the ON position for the experiment with a light switch and lights to be conducted.

As in other areas of inquiry, science (through the scientific method) can build on previous knowledge and develop a more sophisticated understanding of its topics of study over time. You can create a science exhibit by applying a scientific method. Here are the steps you can follow:

• Indentify the situation/case

• On the basis of scientific concept/principal formulate your hypothesis

• Develop your project and test to scuccessfully demonstrate the scientific principal or concept

• Modify your procedure on the basis of your observations

• Capture your observations in a comprehensive format like a table

• Represent the observations as graphs / mind maps or any other pictorial format, if required. This assists in making inferences from the observations easier.

• Draw inferences from the observations

• Conclude the investigation and present it comprehensively. Make use of pictures/charts /graphs, if required

Creating a solution to a real life problem / challenge or creating an indigenous design by using locally available material can be a good exhibit. The following process can be followed to create a novel solution.

• Describe the real life problem or challenge you are trying to solve. This can include reducing the cost, waste produced or quality of products of an existing solution.

• State the aim of the solution and make the aim measurable, if possible. This can be an increase in the efficiency, reduction in effort / time, reduction in cost etc.

• Describe the existing solution, if one exists, and the challenges or shortcomings.

• Design a solution that meets your aim.

• Explore use of locally available materials or materials that need to be recycled.

• Look around for materials that can be repurposed – materials that were created for a different purpose or device.

• Develop the solution or device.

• Test the solution and record the key parameters, especially those related to the aim.

• Keep in mind that things may not work as expected in the first design and attempt. Tweak the design and try again.

• Document the solution. You can capture photos and make a video.

• Conclude the investigation and present it comprehensively. Make use of pictures and graphs, if required.