For 6th Graders: Unique and Fun Ideas for Independent Research Projects
We’ve gathered recommended ideas for anyone looking for interesting summer independent study themes perfect for 6th graders! From “Let’s research the SDGs” to “Let’s make original Jomon-style pottery,” these topics showcase the creativity and ingenuity fitting for upper elementary students.
They’re full of unique ideas that will set you apart from your friends.
From projects you can start with familiar materials to more advanced experiments, you’re sure to find the perfect theme.
Kick off a fun and fitting independent study for your 6th-grade summer vacation!
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For 6th Graders: Unique and Fun Science Project Ideas (31–40)
How to make rainbow punch
Rainbow punch is perfect for a science project where you can learn about color and state changes.
Divide shaved ice syrup into several cups and mix in your favorite colors.
Dissolve gelatin in hot water and combine it with each colored syrup, then chill in the refrigerator to set into jelly.
Place the colorful jellies in a glass, and finally pour in soda water—your rainbow drink will sparkle with fizzy bubbles.
By observing the transformation of gelatin from liquid to solid and how it interacts with carbonated water, you can deepen your understanding of color and temperature-related state changes.
It’s an idea that’s visually fun and scientifically rich, letting you enjoy both observation and experimentation.
dry ice bubbles
Let’s try making soap bubbles with dry ice! First, put dry ice into a bucket and pour water over it.
The dry ice will sublimate and produce billowing fog.
Next, use your arm coated with foamy soap to create a film of soap along the rim of the bucket.
If you get a good film, the fog from the dry ice will push against it and form large white soap bubbles.
pinhole camera
Let’s try making a pinhole camera, a classic for independent research projects.
A pinhole camera is a camera that forms an image using a tiny pinhole instead of a camera lens.
There are methods using a milk carton or a paper cup, and it’s surprisingly easy to make.
If you choose a pinhole camera for your project, after building it you should observe how the image actually appears, think about why it appears that way, and compile your findings into a report.
Making a model of geological strata
Perfect for anyone interested in nature! Here are some ideas for making a geological layer (strata) model.
These ideas are recommended for people who enjoy detailed hands-on activities or are curious about natural principles.
Even if you’re not sure what strata are, try giving it a go with this video as a reference.
In the video, we clearly and carefully explain what strata are and the key points in the process of creating them.
Be sure to take this opportunity to give it a try!
Let’s make a leaf vein specimen
Let’s make a leaf vein specimen using leaves you can find around you.
First, bring water with 3 tablespoons of baking soda to a boil and add the leaves.
Simmer for about 15 minutes, then when the water turns brown and the leaves become limp, remove the leaves.
This softens the pigments other than the veins.
Next, rinse the leaves under running water and gently tap them with a toothbrush to scrape away everything except the veins.
Be sure to choose sturdy, relatively tough leaves for this experiment.
[For 6th Graders] Stand-Out and Fun Independent Research Ideas (41–50)
Why can we see the Moon?
Let’s clear up some questions! Here are some ideas about why we can see the Moon.
How about researching things you find interesting or mysterious in your daily life? It’s a great way to expand your world, deepen your learning, and resolve your questions.
This time, let’s learn about some questions related to the Moon.
After watching the video, it’s a good idea to summarize what you learned with text and illustrations in a notebook or on poster paper.
Give it a try!
Properties of aqueous solutions
Let’s summarize the key features! Here are some ideas about the properties of aqueous solutions.
How about preparing aqueous solutions that share common elements and challenging yourself to summarize each of their characteristics? In the video, aqueous solutions are explained for elementary school students.
The explanations are organized in a clear, step-by-step way, so it’s recommended for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of aqueous solutions! Using five types of aqueous solutions should also help when memorizing their features.
Definitely give it a try!