Madison County 4-H Policies, Procedures and Project Guidelines

Additional information on all state 4-H projects available at https://extension.purdue.edu/4-H/projects/index.html

Fair Entry Deadline for ALL Projects:  All projects that will be exhibited at the current year’s fair must be entered in Fair Entry (https://fairentry.com) by 11:59 p.m. on July 10.  Livestock Facility Fees are due to the Extension Office on or before July 10.  Fair Entry will open on June 1. 

AEROSPACE

Project Leaders: Luke Loller lloler@flcs.k12.in.us and Greg Valentine greg.valentine1945@yahoo.com

 

You must become a member of a model rocketry club (Starblazers South) to participate in the rocket launch.

Attend the rocket club meetings and build your own rocket!

Exhibitors will launch their rockets prior to the fair. Exhibit at the fair: Display your rocket without engine and/or igniter.

 

Description: The 4-H aerospace program provides youth with educational information and experiences about aerodynamics, flight and rocketry.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used, with parent permission, when creating this exhibit and is to be documented as a reference. A majority of the work to create this exhibit is to be the 4-H member’s original work. All posters, notebooks, and display boards must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be attached to the back of a poster or display board, be the last page of a notebook, or included as part of the display visible to the public. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the way references are listed.

 

Posters are to be 22”x28” and displayed horizontally and placed in a clear plastic sleeve or covered with clear plastic to protect contents. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. Display boards should be designed to sit on a table using no more than 36” of tabletop space. Space should be left in the lower right-hand corner to place an exhibit tag provided by Purdue Extension staff.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

“Ready to Fly” and E2X rockets are not permitted. Rockets may be exhibited with a base, but launch pads are not permitted. All rockets must weigh less than 3.3 pounds and considered an amateur rocket according to FAA regulations. Remote control aircraft or drones may be constructed from a kit or purchased ready-to-fly. The power source (rocket engine, battery pack, etc.) is to be removed before being placed in public exhibition.

 

Rockets will not be launched and remote control aircraft or drones will not be flown at state fair. Launching rockets and flying aircraft or drones at the county level is optional based on adult supervision experience.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

 

Beginner (grades 3-5 suggested)

Construct a rocket of your choice designed for a new model rocket enthusiast with a difficulty level that is appropriate for the suggested grade level, or a poster or display board on any topic in the manual. Similar topics not included in the manual are permissible. Rockets cannot be ready-to-fly (RTF) or have plastic fins. Cluster engine rockets and rockets that take an engine D or above are not permitted in this level.

 

Learn to fly a remote control aircraft or drone of your choice that is age/grade appropriate and compliant with FAA regulations, federal and state laws, and local ordinances. This exhibit choice is to include a notebook or poster including how the aircraft/drone was used and aerospace skills learned. Displaying the aircraft or drone is optional.

Other topics could include how a quadcopter operates, controls used to fly a quadcopter, UAV regulations administered by Federal Aviation Administration, commercial and emergency uses of UAVs, and more.

 

 

Intermediate (grades 6-8 suggested)

Construct a rocket of your choice designed for a model rocket enthusiast with some experience and with a difficulty level that is appropriate for the suggested grade level, or a poster or display board on any topic in the manual.

Similar topics not included in the manual are permissible. Rockets cannot be ready-to-fly (RTF) or have plastic fins. Cluster engine rockets and rockets that take an engine E or above are not permitted in this level.

 

Construct or learn to fly a remote control aircraft or drone of your choice that is age/grade appropriate and compliant with FAA regulations, federal and state laws, and local ordinances. This exhibit choice is to include a notebook or poster including how the aircraft/drone was used and aerospace skills learned. Displaying the aircraft or drone is optional. Other topics could include interviewing a certified UAV pilot who works in law enforcement, EMS, fire, Purdue Extension, commercial or other application. Other options could include creating a flight plan or interfacing with other computer software.

 

Advanced (grades 9-12 suggested)

Construct a rocket of your choice designed for an experienced model rocket enthusiast and with a difficulty level that is appropriate for the suggested grade level, or a poster or display board on any topic in the manual. Similar topics not included in the manual are permissible. Rockets cannot be ready-to-fly (RTF) or have plastic fins. Cluster engine rockets and rockets that take an engine G or above are not permitted in this level.

 

Construct or learn to fly a remote control aircraft or drone of your choice that is age/grade appropriate and compliant with FAA regulations, federal and state laws, and local ordinances. This exhibit choice is to include a notebook or poster including how the aircraft/drone was used and aerospace skills learned. Displaying the aircraft or drone is optional. Other topics could include using “stitching” software to produce an orthomosaic map for a research purpose, identifying Department of Transportation Aeronautical Chart features and explain how these are important to a drone pilot, how to obtain a drone pilot license, or more. If 16 years of age or older the member could obtain a license by completing and passing the official FAA Part 107 UAV licensing test.

ANIMAL EDUCATION

 

Description: Youth can learn about livestock and companion animals through a variety of experiences.

 

The list below outlines possible exhibit entry options for State Fair:

  • Beef entry
  • Cat entry
  • Dairy Cattle entry
  • Dog entry
  • Goat entry
  • Horse entry
  • Llama entry
  • Poultry entry
  • Rabbit entry
  • Sheep entry
  • Swine entry

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

Owning or showing an animal is not required.

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used, with parent permission, when creating this exhibit and is to be documented as a reference. A majority of the work to create this exhibit is to be the 4-H member’s original work. All posters, notebooks, and display boards must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be attached to the back of a poster or display board, be the last page of a notebook, or included as part of the display visible to the public. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the way references are listed.

 

Posters are to be 22”x28” and displayed horizontally and placed in a clear plastic sleeve or covered with clear plastic to protect contents. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. Display boards should be designed to sit on a table using no more than 36” of tabletop space. Space should be left in the lower right-hand corner to place an exhibit tag provided by Purdue Extension staff.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

 

Beginner (grades 3-5 suggested)

Create an educational poster, notebook or display about any manual activity or on any specie related topic of choice that is age/grade appropriate. Owning or possessing an animal is not required.

 

Intermediate (grades 6-8 suggested)

Create an educational poster, notebook or display about any manual activity or on any specie related topic of choice that is age/grade appropriate. Owning or possessing an animal is not required.

 

Advanced (grades 9-12 suggested)

Create an educational poster, notebook or display about any manual activity or on any specie related topic of choice that is age/grade appropriate. Owning or possessing an animal is not required.

ARTS and CRAFTS

 

Project Leader: Anissa Fox  4Hsewingandcraftclub@gmail.com

 

The Arts and Crafts project is different than many of the 4-H projects. One of the major goals in crafts is to encourage 4-Hers to develop creative skills.

 

Description: Allows youth to learn life skills and grow in project knowledge while expressing creativity in a variety of mediums.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

Youth may exhibit any art or craft that does not meet exhibit requirements in Fine Arts, Needle Craft, Model Craft or Construction and Architectural Replica.

 

Exhibitors should be considerate of space. Exhibits too large to safely move or requiring lots of space should be exhibited using photographs and a description of work in a notebook.

 

All arts and craft exhibits must include a 4-H Craft Information Card, 4-H 618A. This information card is to describe work completed so the judge can more accurately evaluate the exhibit. Craft information cards are for judging purposes only and will not be returned to the exhibitor.

 

If multiple pieces make up the exhibit, a photograph of the complete exhibit should be attached to the exhibit so the total exhibit can properly be displayed. For safety purposes any craft exhibit that resembles a sword, knife, or look-a-like weapon will be judged but will not be displayed.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

 

Beginner (grades 3-5 suggested)

Intermediate (grades 6-8 suggested)

Advanced (grades 9-12 suggested)

Create and exhibit age/grade appropriate artwork. A 4-Her may exhibit more than one (no limitations) Arts & Crafts project, but without duplication. Examples: A 4-Her may exhibit a leathercraft, a basket and a ceramic project. But a 4-Her may not exhibit two leathercrafts, two baskets nor two ceramic projects. 

 

***ALL CRAFT PROJECTS MUST HAVE THE 4-H CRAFT INFORMATION CARD 4-H-618A

THAT DESCRIBES WORK COMPLETED ON PROJECT***

BEEKEEPING

 

Description: This project will help youth learn beekeeping, the types of bees, the honey and wax they produce, the plants that attract bees, and the equipment a beekeeper needs.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used, with parent permission, when creating this exhibit and is to be documented as a reference. A majority of the work to create this exhibit is to be the 4-H member’s original work. All posters, notebooks, and display boards must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be attached to the back of a poster or display board, be the last page of a notebook, or included as part of the display visible to the public. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the way references are listed.

 

Posters are to be 22”x28” and displayed horizontally and placed in a clear plastic sleeve or covered with clear plastic to protect contents. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. Display boards should be designed to sit on a table using no more than 36” of tabletop space. Space should be left in the lower right-hand corner to place an exhibit tag provided by Purdue Extension staff.

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

Special Notes:

  • There are no age/grade specifications for beekeeping exhibits. No bee hives may be brought to the State Fair.
  • Honey water content will be measured.
  • Fill level: the honey should be filled to the jar shoulder, not over, nor under
  • Chunk honey should go in a wide-mouth jar, preferably one specially made for chunk honey (see beekeeping catalogs).
  • Be careful to distinguish "chunk honey"(comb in jar) from "cut comb" (comb only in box). Honey (including chunk, cut comb and comb) must be collected since the previous county fair.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

Educational Poster or Display (grades 3-12)

Create an educational poster, notebook or display about any manual activity or on any beekeeping topic of choice that is age/grade appropriate.  Youth can also design and complete an independent study activity.

Extracted Honey (grades 3-12)

Exhibit 2 one-pound jars, shown in glass or clear plastic, screw-top jars holding 1 pound of honey each. Each container is to have the 4-H member’s name and county written using permanent marker.

Chunk Honey (grades 3-12)

Exhibit 2 one-pound jars (wide-mouth glass or clear plastic) with a comb in each jar. Each container is to have the 4-H member’s name and county written using permanent marker.

Cut-comb Honey (grades 3-12)

Exhibit 2 one-pound boxes. Boxes are usually 4 1/2” x 4 ½” in size. Each box is to have the 4-H member’s name and county written using permanent marker.

Two Honey Product

Exhibit 4 containers total of two different honey products using extracted honey, chunk honey or cut-comb honey as described in each product above.

CAKE DECORATING

 

Project Leader: Mindy Carver  mjc3773@gmail.com

 

Description: The cake decorating project allows youth to utilize their artistic ability and expressions as they learn decorating techniques and skills. Anyone wanting to learn baking skills should refer to the 4-H foods project.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

The cake decorating project provides skills-based educational experiences that provide an opportunity for mastery before building on that experience to develop more advanced skills.  This subject area is divided into three levels: Beginner (Grades 3-5), Intermediate (Grades 6-8), and Advanced (Grades 9-12).  While the defined grades are intended to be a guide, older youth enrolled in this subject for the first time may start at a lower grade skill level with permission by the county extension educator, followed by an appropriate level the following year. 

 

Skills and techniques demonstrated should be age/grade appropriate.  While it is not to say a beginner level member cannot master an advanced level skill, it would be rare and unique.  Therefore, exhibited cakes must demonstrate the minimum five techniques from their given level outlined in Indiana 4-H Cake Decorating Skills and Techniques, 4-H 710A, but may also include higher/lower level techniques that have been mastered.  Any higher/lower level techniques will not be counted as part of the minimum five but nevertheless will be evaluated for quality.  All exhibited cakes must be created using a Styrofoam, foam, or other solid dummy.  Unless otherwise stated, cakes are to be iced using royal icing or buttercream.  Buttercream icing will not withstand environmental conditions and may become soft, melt, not withhold its shape, and colors may bleed when being displayed an extended period of time.  When displaying a cut-up cake or tiered cake, the exhibitor must include a diagram and description indicating how the cake was assembled.  This diagram and description can be attached to or written on the skills sheet.  All exhibits must include a completed Cake Decorating Skills Sheet (4-H 710) and must accompany the cake for the judge’s reference during judging. Skills sheets are for judging purposes only and will not be returned to the exhibitor.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

 

Beginner (grades 3-5 suggested)

A minimum of five beginner level skills are to be demonstrated.  A list of skills to choose from can be found on the Indiana 4-H Cake Decorating Skills and Techniques, 4-H 710A sheet. Cakes must be on a cake board strong enough to support the cake (approximately 3/8” thick) and 2-4” larger than the cake. For example, if the cake is 8” in diameter, then the cake board must be 10-12” in diameter.  The cake board must be neatly covered and well taped or otherwise attached underneath.  Cakes exhibited in the beginner level are to be a single tier/layer, no more than 5” tall, and may be round, square, or rectangular and the cake board is to be no more 12”x12”. 

 

Intermediate (grades 6-8 suggested)

A minimum of five intermediate level skills are to be demonstrated and the cake may include additional skills from the beginner level.  A list of skills to choose from can be found on the Indiana 4-H Cake Decorating Skills and Techniques, 4-H 710A sheet. Cakes must be on a cake board strong enough to support the cake (approximately 3/8” thick) and 2-4” larger than the cake.  For example, if the cake is 9”x13” rectangular, then the cake board must be 11”x15” to 13”x17” rectangular. The cake board must be neatly covered and well taped or otherwise attached underneath.  Cakes exhibited in the intermediate level are to be a single or double layer, no more than 12” tall and may be any shape.  Youth may choose to decorate an inverted (upside down) character pan or create a 3-dimensional cake.  It is also permissible to cut-up pieces of Styrofoam, foam, or other solid material to create a new shape, like a butterfly or castle for example.  The cake board is to be no more than 24”x24”. 

 

 

 

Advanced (grades 9-12 suggested)

A minimum of five advanced level skills are to be demonstrated and the cake may include additional skills from the beginner and intermediate levels.  A list of skills to choose from can be found on the Indiana 4-H Cake Decorating Skills and Techniques, 4-H 710A sheet. Cakes must be on a cake board strong enough to support the cake (approximately ½” thick) and 4” larger than the base cake.  For example, if the cake is 26” in diameter, then the cake board must be 30” in diameter. The cake board must be neatly covered and well taped or otherwise attached underneath. Cakes exhibited in the advanced level may be multiple layer and/or tiered and may include multiple cakes, like a wedding cake. Youth may choose to create a character or 3-dimensional cake by cutting-up pieces of Styrofoam, foam, or other solid material to create a new shape.  Dowel rods, plates, etc. should be used to support multiple layers and tiers.  Fondant icing, gum, and sugar paste is permissible.  Cakes may be any shape, no more than 36” tall and the cake board is to be no more than 36”x36”.  

CHILD DEVELOPMENT

 

Description: Youth will learn about developmental stages of infants, toddlers and young children.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used, with parent permission, when creating this exhibit and is to be documented as a reference. A majority of the work to create this exhibit is to be the 4-H member’s original work. All posters, notebooks, and display boards must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be attached to the back of a poster or display board, be the last page of a notebook, or included as part of the display visible to the public. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the way references are listed.

Posters are to be 22”x28” and displayed horizontally and placed in a clear plastic sleeve or covered with clear plastic to protect contents. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. Display boards should be designed to sit on a table using no more than 36” of tabletop space. Space should be left in the lower right hand corner to place an exhibit tag provided by Purdue Extension staff.

 

Activities may be designed to be displayed on the floor, but please be considerate of space availability. Each item is to be labeled with the 4-H member’s name, county and club so fair staff can keep all components together if it needs to be moved after judging is complete.

 

Notebooks are to include the following:

  • Identifications on the front showing 4-H member’s name, county, club, grade and year in project.
  • Title page naming the activity.
  • Pages explaining how activity was developed and is to be used.
  • Photographs showing how the activity was used along with assembly.
  • Explanation of skills learned and any additional information to share with the reader.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

 

Level A (grades 3-4 suggested)

Level B (grades 5-6 suggested)

Exhibit a poster, display, or notebook about a manual activity. Other similar activities are permissible.

Level C (grades 7-9 suggested)

Level D (grades 10-12 suggested)

Exhibit a poster, display, or notebook about a manual activity. Other similar activities designed to help develop physical, emotional or cognitive skills are permissible.

 

COLLECTIONS

(County Fair Only – Not a State Fair Project)

 

Objective: To encourage 4-H Members to learn the joy of collecting and organizing a collection of items and to understand the value both of the process of collection and the value of their collections by collecting items of value to them, by researching the market value of those items and by presenting them in an attractive display.

 

NOTE TO EXHIBITOR AND PARENTS: Due to the fact that many of the projects are large or unwieldy and many contain elements that are easily lost, damaged, or stolen, the actual collections will be exhibited at the county fair only if the exhibit has a secure, enclosed display case sufficient to contain the items and thwart unintended access. Each exhibit must also have a notebook/folder with it that INCLUDES your inventory log, a picture(s) of the whole collection and a cost estimate log. Please indicate (via highlight, or some other method) in your log which items you are currently exhibiting in an ongoing collection.

 

All posters, notebooks, and display boards must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be attached to the back of a poster or display board, be the last page of a notebook, or included as part of the display visible to the public. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the manner in which references are listed.

 

Level 1 (Grades 3-5)

  • Six sample items (not previously exhibited) from your collection. Remember to exhibit new items from your collection every year. Each article needs to be labeled. Be creative in the display of your collection, as long as it is not bigger than 2’(L) x 3’(W) x 3’(H) (and securely enclosed in a display case if left for display at the fair). As an alternative display for the fair (not judging), you can exhibit a poster (22”x28” displayed horizontally) or a notebook containing photographs of the six items from your collection. No living plants or animals may be displayed as a collection. Your exhibit must include:
    • Your six items displayed creatively and all labeled
    • Your 4-H Collections Inventory Log
    • Picture(s) of your whole collections

 

Level 2 (Grades 6-8)

  • Six sample items (not previously exhibited) from your collection. Remember to exhibit new items from your collection every year. Each article needs to be labeled. Be creative in the display of your collection, as long as it is not bigger than 2’(L) x 3’(W) x 3’(H) (and securely enclosed in a display case if left for display at the fair). As an alternative display for the fair (not judging), you can exhibit a poster (22”x28” displayed horizontally) or a notebook containing photographs of the items in your collection. No living plants or animals may be displayed as a collection. Your exhibit must include:
    • Your six items displayed creatively and all labeled
    • Your 4-H Collection Inventory Log
    • Picture(s) of your whole collection
    • Estimate the monetary value of the whole collection with help

 

Level 3 (Grades 9-12)

  • Six sample items (not previously exhibited) from your collection. Remember to exhibit new items from your collection every year. Each article needs to be labeled. Be creative in the display of your collection, as long as it is not bigger than 2’(L) x 3’(W) x 3’(H) (and securely enclosed in a display case if left for display at the fair). As an alternative display for the fair (not judging), you can exhibit a poster (22”x28” displayed horizontally) or a notebook containing photographs of the items in your collection. No living plants or animals may be displayed as a collection. Your exhibit must include:
    • Your six items displayed creatively and all labeled
    • Your 4-H Collection Inventory Sheet
    • Picture(s) of your whole collection
    • Having done research, assign a value to each item of your collection to the best of your knowledge. Be sure to reference your sources at the end of your Collections Inventory Log.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

 

Description: The 4-H computer science project is designed for youth to engage in an interactive project to learn all levels of familiarity with computers.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

There are three exhibit grade level divisions; Grades 3-5, Beginner; Grades 6-8, Intermediate; and Grades 9-12, Advanced.  Exhibits are to be skill appropriate for the member’s grade level.

 

Youth enrolled in the computer project will select one of the below subject categories to study, regardless of grade.  Youth may choose to create an exhibit demonstrating skills learned during the year.  Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used, with parent permission, when creating this exhibit and is to be documented as a reference. The majority of the work to create this exhibit is to be the 4-H member’s original work. Check with your county Purdue Extension Office to determine if a computer will be available during judging and if there will be an opportunity to explain your exhibit to the judge. Exhibits qualifying for state fair are to be submitted on a thumb drive securely attached to a notebook/portfolio describing accomplishments, skills learned, design ideas, budget, a summary of what was done, screenshots showing the development and final project, etc. as the exhibitor will not be able to discuss their work with a judge. Poster and display board exhibits are permissible.  Posters are to be 22”x28” and displayed horizontally and placed in a clear plastic sleeve or covered with clear plastic to protect content. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. Display boards should be designed to sit on a table using no more than 36” of tabletop space. Space should be left in the lower right-hand corner to place an exhibit tag provided by Purdue Extension staff.  Youth may continue in the same subject category in subsequent years, expand the previous year’s topic, or choose a new topic. Subject categories are:

 

Software submitted to be reviewed by a judge must be compatible on both PC and Mac platforms. If additional software other than Microsoft Office Suite is required to view the member’s work, that software must be provided by the member and comply with all manufacturer copyright laws.  Apps can be Android or IOS compatible.

 

All notebooks/portfolios must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be the last page of a notebook or included as part of the display visible to the public. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the manner in which references are listed.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

 

Programming, Block- and Text-based Programming:

Youth can submit programming projects in a language of their choosing. Some popular choices include, but are not limited to:

  • Block-based: Scratch, Code Studio, Alice, etc.
  • Text-based: Python, JavaScript, C/C++, C#, ASP.net, R, Go, Java, PHP, Perl, Ruby, etc.

 

Beginner (Grades 3-5) – Create a program using a programming language of your choice.   You should comment on your work, and it must include at least ten different commands.  Skills this program could use are:

  • Sequence
  • Iteration
  • Conditionals
  • Variables
  • Loops
  • User input
  • Any other similar skill

 

Intermediate (Grades 6-8) – Create a program using a programming language of your choice.   You should comment on your work, and it must include at least ten different commands.  Skills this program could use are:

  • More robust demonstration of beginner skills
  • Commenting
  • Correct syntax
  • Lists
  • Functions
  • Algorithms
  • Modularization
  • Lists
  • Any other similar skill

 

Advanced (Grades 9-12) – Create a program using a programming language of your choice.   You should comment on your work, and it must include at least ten different commands.  Skills this program could use are:

  • More robust demonstration of Intermediate Skills
  • Parameters
  • Recursion
  • Interact with databases
  • Classes
  • Objects
  • Methods
  • Inheritance
  • Integrate multiple languages into one program
  • Demonstrate utilization of a version control system
  • Any other similar skill

 

Web Design and Computer Entrepreneurship

All Divisions: A notebook detailing your steps/process is highly recommended.

 

Beginner Web Design and Computer Entrepreneurship - (Grades 3-5) - Build a website demonstrating a knowledge of:

  • Use a website builder to create your website
  • Insert non-stock image into your site
  • Use a template to achieve a unified look
  • Explain CSS in your documentation, what CSS is and why it’s important
  • Must have at least two pages and include all items listed above

 

Intermediate Web Design and Computer Entrepreneurship – (Grades 6-8) - Build a website demonstrating a knowledge of:

  • Create your own site or use a website builder
  • Modify existing HTML
  • Use HTML5
  • Modify existing CSS
  • Have a unified theme throughout
  • Use a photo editing software to create custom images
  • Must have at least five pages and include all items listed above

 

 

Advanced Web Design and Computer Entrepreneurship – (Grades 9-12) - Build a website demonstrating a knowledge of:

  • Create a custom site using appropriate industry tools
  • Have a responsive website
  • Add useful and appropriate plugins
  • Test for and eliminate bugs
  • Include links for social media
  • Include custom audio/video
  • Must have at least ten pages and include all items listed above

 

Computer Forensics (ID theft, online bullying, ethical use of technology, responsible social media use)

All Divisions: A notebook detailing your steps/process is highly recommended.

 

Beginner Computer Forensics – (Grades 3-5) – Research and create a 3–5-minute presentation on one of the following topics.  Present to a group of peers and have an adult leader verify, create a YouTube or MP4 instructional video, or printed slides and notes using PowerPoint or similar presentation software. 

  • Media Balance and Well Being
  • Privacy and Security
  • Digital Footprint and Identity
  • Relationships and Communication
  • Cyberbullying, Digital Drama and Hate Speech
  • News and Media Literacy
  • Any other similar topic

 

Intermediate Computer Forensics – (Grades 6-8) – Research and create a 6–8-minute presentation on one of the following topics.  Present to a group of peers and have an adult leader verify, create a YouTube or MP4 instructional video, or printed slides and notes using PowerPoint or similar presentation software. 

  • Digital Citizenship:
    • Media Balance and Well Being
    • Privacy and Security
    • Digital Footprint and Identity
    • Relationships and Communication
    • Cyberbullying, Digital Drama and Hate Speech
    • News and Media Literacy
  • Cyber Security
    • Ethics and Society
    • Security Principles
    • Classic Cryptography
    • Malicious Software
    • Physical Security
    • Web Security
  • Any other similar topic

 

Advanced Computer Forensics – (Grades 9-12) – Research and create a 10–12-minute presentation on one of the following topics.  Present to a group of peers and have an adult leader verify, create a YouTube or MP4 instructional video, or printed slides and notes using PowerPoint or similar presentation software. 

  • Digital Citizenship:
    • Media Balance and Well Being
    • Privacy and Security
    • Digital Footprint and Identity Relationships and Communication
    • Cyberbullying, Digital Drama and Hate Speech
    • News and Media Literacy
    • Cyber Security
    • Ethics and Society
    • Security Principles
    • Classic Cryptography
    • Malicious Software
    • Physical Security
    • Web Security
    • Any other similar topic

 

Computer Hardware and Networking Design/Install/Repair

All Divisions: A notebook detailing your steps/process is highly recommended.

 

Beginner – (Grades 3-5) – Choose 1-2 items from the list and create a report/presentation (including images) of what you did.

  • Deconstruct and reconstruct a computer
  • Learn and report how binary works and how computers use numbers
  • Troubleshoot hardware problems
  • Explore operating systems
  • Investigate open-source resources
  • Install/upgrade operating systems
  • Design a dream machine (give reasons)
  • Any other similar design/install/repair

 

Intermediate – (Grades 6-8) – Choose 1-2 items from the list and create a report/presentation (including images) of what you did.

  • Identify network hardware
  • Design a computer network
  • Explain Internet Protocol
  • Explain different types of servers
  • Use different protocols to communicate
  • Add peripherals to a network
  • Secure a networked computer
  • Share applications simultaneously
  • Setup a Raspberry Pi or other micro-controller
  • Any other similar design/install/repair

 

Advanced – (Grades 9-12) - Choose one or two items from the list and create a report/presentation (including images) of what you did.

  • Design and implement a computer network
  • Secure your network
  • Understand the technological needs of your community. 
  • Help to solve these needs by organizing a committee or team to work on identified issues.
  • Teach a computer science class to younger 4-Hers.
  • Build your dream computer
  • Network multiple micro-controllers
  • Research careers in technology
  • Any other similar design/install/repair

 

Graphic Design and Computer Art

Graphic Design

 

There are three divisions: Beginner (Grades 3-5), Intermediate (Grades 6-8) and Advanced (Grades 9-12). Youth are to use a software program to create or design an item that requires graphic design. The name of the software and version is to be included in the exhibit. Exhibits are to be age/grade appropriate. Ideas include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Logo design
  • T-shirt or apparel screen printing design
  • Promotional brochure
  • Marketing materials
  • Computer altered photographs/images – Photographs taken by the 4-H member and altered by the 4-H member using a computer are to be entered into the Photography project as a creative/experimental exhibit. Youth must obtain permission from the owner before altering someone else’s photograph/image and include a copy of that permission with the exhibit to ensure there is no copyright violation.

 

Computer Art

There are three divisions: Beginner (Grades 3-5), Intermediate (Grades 6-8) and Advanced (Grades 9-12). Youth are to use a software program to create or design an item that requires artistry. Youth may design and create their own work in totality or can use a pre-made template or design to create their own finished product, provided the majority of the created exhibit is completed by the 4-H member. The name of the software and version is to be included in the exhibit. Exhibits are to be age/grade appropriate. A notebook detailing your steps/process is highly recommended.

 

3-D Printing

Beginner (Grades 3-5)

  • Youth can use premade designs with minor modifications. Youth should document the modifications, and cite any sources used for the project.

 

Intermediate (Grades 6-8)

  • Youth can use premade designs with modifications. Youth should document the modifications, and cite any sources used for the project.

 

Advanced (Grades 9-12).

  • Youth are to use a software program to create or design an item printed using a 3-D printer. Youth are encouraged to design and create their own work in totality.
  • If youth use a pre-made template, modify enough so that the majority of the design is completed by the 4-H member. Youth must cite any sources used for the project.

 

All divisions should include:

    • The name of the software and version
    • Printer make and model
    • Notebook detailing steps as well as the files you printed
    • Exhibits are to be age/grade appropriate

 

Robotics

Suggested exhibits include, but are not limited to, a notebook including a printout of code with requirements marked, a flowchart showing how the robot works, images of the robot being built and the final robot in action, a video, a live demonstration, or other applicable exhibits.  A notebook detailing your steps/process is highly recommended.

 

Beginner (Grades 3-5)

    • Create a flowchart
    • Build a robot
  • Use block- or text-based program to operate
    • Sequential programs
    • Events at beginning
  • Use at least one basic sensor
  • Model and demonstrate robot behaviors using a simulation environment (e.g. VEXcode VR [https://vr.vex.com])

 

 

 

 

Intermediate (Grades 6-8)

    • Create a flowchart with sub-routines
    • Include at least two sensors in robot
    • Use at least three events in code
    • Create at least 2 loops in code
    • Operation of robot should be smooth

 

Advanced (Grades 9-12) - Above guidelines plus:

    • Use text-based language
    • Use advanced logic including
      • Multiple (three or more) events
      • Multiple (three or more) loops
      • At least three sub routines
      • Special consideration if robot is not a kit

 

Videography

Suggested exhibits include A completed video project (e.g., documentary, commercial, short story, instructional, or innovation video are a few suggestions), A notebook or portfolio detailing the process, which should include:

  • Planning steps
  • Storyboarding
  • Script
  • Equipment/software used
  • Editing steps
  • Reference list (sources, interviews, websites, etc.)

 

Beginner (Grades 3-5)

  • Create a flowchart of the video process
  • Build a simple video project using basic editing tools
  • Use block- or text-based programs for any automation or effects
  • Demonstrate sequential planning and basic events (e.g., opening credits, transitions)
  • Use at least one basic effect or technique (e.g., fade-in, title screen)

 

Intermediate (Grades 6-8)

  • Create a flowchart with sub-routines (e.g., scenes, chapters)
  • Include at least two advanced effects or editing techniques
  • Use at least three events in the video (e.g., transitions, overlays, audio cues)
  • Create at least two loops or repeated elements (e.g., recurring theme music)
  • Ensure smooth operation and flow of the video

 

Advanced (Grades 9-12) - Above guidelines plus:

  • Use text-based editing or scripting tools for advanced logic
  • Incorporate multiple (three or more) events and loops
  • Include at least three sub-routines (e.g., intro, body, conclusion)
  • Special consideration for original work (not using templates or kits)

 

Additional Notes:

  • All divisions should encourage creativity and originality.
  • Exhibits must be age/grade appropriate.
  • Judges should use these guidelines as a reference, not a strict requirement, and recognize individual differences and creativity.

CONSTRUCTION TOYS (Legos) and ARCHITECTURAL REPLICA (Farm Scenes, etc.)

 

Project Leader: Tammy Creech-Lane  brtalane@yahoo.com

 

Description: Allows youth to learn life skills and grow in project knowledge while expressing creativity when designing replicas.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

 

Exhibits can include farm scenes, town models, building replicas, or similar items and can be constructed from building blocks (Lego), erector sets, or other materials. The product should be constructed to scale as much as possible. Consider adding a clear cover to protect the exhibit while being displayed to the public. The exhibit can be no larger than a standard 8’ long table. A county 4-H program may implement a smaller size limit if available facility space merits.

 

Exhibitors should be considerate of space. Exhibits too large to safely move or requiring lots of space should be exhibited using photographs and a description of work in a notebook.

 

All arts and craft exhibits must include a 4-H Craft Information Card, 4-H 618A. This information card is to describe work completed so the judge can more accurately evaluate the exhibit. Craft information cards are for judging purposes only and will not be returned to the exhibitor.

 

If an exhibitor is concerned about their creation being damaged while on display, they should consider constructing a clear plastic cover to encase the exhibit.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

Beginner (grades 3-5 suggested)

Intermediate (grades 6-8 suggested)

Advanced (grades 9-12 suggested)

Create and exhibit one age/grade appropriate artistic scene or replica.

CONSUMER CLOTHING

 

Notebooks are due to the Extension Office by 4:00pm on Tuesday, July 14, 2026

 

Description: This project is designed to teach clothing selection, wardrobe planning, care of clothing and personal grooming.

 

Exhibit Guidelines:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be used, with parent permission, when creating this exhibit and is to be documented as a reference. A majority of the work to create this exhibit is to be the 4-H member’s original work. All posters, notebooks, and display boards must include a reference list indicating where information was obtained, giving credit to the original author, to complete the 4-H member’s exhibit. This reference list should/might include web site links, people and professionals interviewed, books, magazines, etc. It is recommended this reference list be attached to the back of a poster or display board, be the last page of a notebook, or included as part of the display visible to the public. The poster must be mounted on a firm backing to add stiffness to the exhibit, for example: a foam core board. A judge is not to discredit an exhibit for the way references are listed.

 

The notebook is to include the following items and information:

  • Outside front cover – 4-H member name, county, club and level.
  • Photo of 4-H member wearing their purchased outfit.
  • Narrative describing decision making process when purchasing this outfit and accessories, and how they complement your existing wardrobe.
  • One page or section outlining each of the five manual activities completed. Information is to include a description of the activity, skills learned, challenges completing the activity and how you worked to overcome each challenge, problems that occurred and how that problem was solved, how this activity will help you later in life and any other information.
  • Any additional information or documentation such as place of purchase, other vendors explored, how an adult mentor assisted and any other information. Receipts are not required, but if included be sure personally identifiable information such as mailing address, phone number, etc. are altered and not visible.
  • The notebook exhibit is not to include prior year(s) information.

 

Youth will model their purchased outfit and accessories at the county level. (See Fashion Revue Guidelines)  Modeling at state fair is limited to one entry per level from each county and will be judged separate from the notebook.

 

Judges evaluating exhibits should recognize individual differences and creativity, therefore using information in this document as a guide rather than a requirement.

 

Exhibit Class Guidelines:

Beginner (grades 3-5 suggested)

Complete five activities in the manual and share your results or answers in a notebook using exhibit guidelines above, labeling each activity. With help from a parent or mentor, With the help of a mentor or parent, purchase and accessorize an outfit of your choice. Accessories may be purchased or selected from what you currently have.

 

Intermediate (grades 6-8 suggested)

Complete five activities in the manual and share your results or answers in a notebook using exhibit guidelines above, labeling each activity.  With the help of a mentor or parent, purchase and accessorize an outfit of your choice. Accessories may be purchased or selected from what you currently have.

 

Advanced (grades 9-12 suggested)

Complete five activities in the manual and share your results or answers in a notebook using exhibit guidelines above, labeling each activity. With the help of a mentor or parent, purchase and accessorize an outfit of your choice. Accessories may be purchased or selected from what you currently have.