Scientific Inquiry
Student Showcase & Competition

The Nevada County STEAM Expo Scientific Inquiry challenge is an annual competition open to TK-12th grade students residing in Nevada County. This competition serves to cultivate a keen interest in and enthusiasm for science, mathematics, and engineering. It also provides a rewarding competitive platform where students can proudly present their research projects, setting the stage for their academic journey.


Tools for Students

CSEF Senior Division - Project Presentation Rules (Grades 6-12)

CSEF Project Checklist - Grades 6-12

9-12th Guidelines for Conducting a Scientific Experiment
6-8th Creating and Doing Science Experiments

TK-5 Trying Fun Science Experiments


For more information, please contact Carolyn Ferrero at cferrero@nevco.org.


Here's a breakdown of the competition:


Junior Division Projects (Grades TK-5):


Senior Division Projects (Grades 6-12):


Additional Project Information (Grades 6-12):

The top 6 projects in our Senior Division (grades 6-12) will move on to the California Science and Engineering Fair (CSEF). CSEF is an event exclusively for Scientific Inquiry Projects in grades 6-12. In April 2024, student representatives for the 2024 California Science & Engineering Fair will submit their projects through zFair, competing for recognition at the state level. Our Nevada County student representatives from middle schools and high schools will compete alongside more than 900 participants from 400 schools across California. They'll have the chance to win awards totaling $75,000.

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