Middle school students can build strong science competition projects by starting with a real-world problem they want to understand or improve. The first step is to identify a challenge, explore the technology that addresses it today, and ask how that technology could change in the future.
Students can begin with questions about health, the environment, transportation, communication, energy, safety, agriculture, space, or another area that interests them.
A focused topic makes research and project development easier. Instead of choosing a broad subject such as renewable energy, students can narrow the idea to a specific problem such as improving energy storage, reducing household energy waste, or making renewable power more reliable.
Use the How to Choose a Science Competition Topic guide and Future Technology Project Ideas for additional inspiration.
Before predicting the future, students should understand the present. Research how the technology works today, what problem it solves, how it developed, and what limitations still exist.
Students should use credible sources and keep track of their research so the information can be cited in the final project.
ExploraVision asks students to think about how current technology could evolve over the next 20 years. Students can use their research to identify limitations in today’s technology and consider what scientific or engineering advances could make a better future version possible.
Breaking the project into smaller stages can make the work easier to manage. Move from topic selection to research, future technology development, writing, visual communication, review, and final submission.
Review the How to Develop a Strong Science Competition Project guide for additional project planning support.
Before submitting, students and coaches should review the current Toshiba ExploraVision rules, judging criteria, project format, required materials, and submission instructions. These official resources should guide the final project.