Custom Classroom Resources will not
be available after August 1st, 2008.
If you would like to access resources you have
created for future use, you will need to save them
to your local computer.
Founded in 1921, Science Service is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of science among people of all ages. Based in Washington, DC, Science Service encourages students, parents, teachers, and communities to explore the vast world of science.
In an effort to celebrate the scientific achievements of fifth through eighth graders, Science Service partnered with Discovery Communications, Inc. in 1999 to launch the Discovery Channel Young Scientist Challenge (YSC). Every year, more than 60,000 students from around the country enter science projects in a local or regional International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in hopes of earning a nomination to enter the YSC and winning the prestigious title of America's Top Young Scientist.
Six thousand nominees and their respective projects are evaluated by Science Service and whittled to a list of 400 semifinalists by August of each year, and then to 40 talented finalists by September. In October, those finalists gather in Washington, DC to demonstrate their scientific communication skills and hands-on expertise in a series of carefully-crafted science challenges before the watchful eyes of Science Service judges.
Through its publications, educational programs, science fairs, and scholarship competitions, Science Service helps young people strengthen their knowledge in science, math, and engineering. Many credit these experiences as a decisive factor in choosing a scientific career.