Science project
Rats!
Problem
What are rats really like?
Materials
- Computer with internet access
- Color printer
- Digital camera
- 1 or 2 tame pet rats
- Typical office/craft supplies (such as paper, pens & poster-board)
Introduction
The very mention of rats will make some people shudder with disgust. If you ask them why, they will often say, “It’s the tail.” Something about the rat’s hairless tail creeps people out. No one is quite sure why. And yet rats, by nature, are friendly, intelligent, harmless creatures. This project attempts to shed light on the true nature of rats.
Research Questions
- Why do some people hate rats?
- How are rats thought of in different parts of the world?
- What bothers people about the tail of a rat?
- How is the intelligence of rats measured and demonstrated?
- Do rats make good pets? Why or why not?
- Why are live rats so often used in science experiments?
Experimental Procedure
- Research related materials (see bibliography below)
- Determine and explain why people are afraid of rats.
- Photograph your pet rat(s)
- Record the interesting things your rat can do.
- Search, print and label photos of rats you find interesting.
- Identify and categorize different species of rats.
- List the ways in which rats are useful.
- Write a detailed report.
- Include live rats in your science fair display, along with cool rat photos.
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Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.
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