This department gives 4‑H members an opportunity to display their knowledge and skills gained relating to computers, drones, electricity, energy, geospatial, robots, rockets, drones, welding and woodworking. Through participation in this department, 4‑H members will present their knowledge in these areas as they relate to STEM. For help getting started with this project contact your county Extension office.
Department Rules
The name and county of each 4‑H should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit.
Demonstration boards should include an overall title for the display, plus other necessary labeling.
Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible: 1. Hypothesis 2. Research 3. Experiment 4. Measure 5. Report or Redefine Hypothesis. All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display.
Please refer to the General Rules for the policy regarding firearms, items with a blade, and other related items.
Please refer to the General Rules for the policy regarding use of copywritten images.
Premier 4‑H Science Award is available in this area.
Team Entries: To qualify for entry at the Nebraska State Fair for any team exhibit, the exhibit and all supporting information must clearly be the work of a team instead of an individual, and must have at least 50% of all team members enrolled in 4‑H. Additionally, all enrolled 4‑H members on the team should complete and attach an entry tag to the materials. A supplemental page documenting the individual contributions to the project should be included. The entry will be judged as a team, with all team members receiving the same ribbon placing.
State Fair qualified videos, presentations and other electronic exhibits should be submitted to https://go.unl.edu/2026nesfstem by August 15th, 2026. Videos can be uploaded to a video streaming application and exhibitors MUST provide a hard copy QR code for viewing. 4‑H members are encouraged to test their codes or links on several devices to check for appropriate permissions for public viewing
Posters in this department can be any size up to 28 inches by 22 inches when ready for display. Example: trifold poster boards are not 28 inches by 22 inches when fully open for display.
Several classes require a display board which should be a height of 24 inches and not to exceed 1/4-inch thickness. A height of 24 7/8 inches is acceptable to allow for the saw kerf (width) if two 24-inch boards are cut from one end of a 4 foot by 8-foot sheet of plywood. Nothing should be mounted within 3/4 inch of the top or bottom of the board. (Example: Woodworking & Electricity.)
Fabricated boards such as plywood, composition board, or particle-type lumber may be used for demonstration displays.
Demonstration boards should be sanded and finished to improve their appearance. The finish on a demonstration board will be judged as a woodworking exhibit.
Demonstration boards should include an overall title for the display, plus other necessary labeling.
Reports should be written using the scientific method whenever possible (1. Hypothesis 2. Research 3. Experiment 4. Measure 5. Report or Redefine Hypothesis). All reports should be computer generated and enclosed in a clear plastic cover. The reports should be attached securely to the display.
If the project (i.e. picnic tables, wishing wells, swings, chairs, bridges, doghouses, etc.) is designed to be used outside, it will be displayed outside.
All outside projects MUST have entry tag and supporting information placed in a protective bag to prevent damage from weather events such as rain and be ATTACHED to projects with string, zip ties, etc.
State Fair Eligibility
All static exhibits must have received a purple ribbon at the county fair to advance to the State Fair. Projects entered in 900 level classes are not eligible to go to the State Fair.
State Fair Quota
The quotas, or number of exhibits allowed per department, for the Nebraska State Fair is determined by each county’s annual 4‑H enrollment. County staff will be provided with department quotas following the June 15 enrollment deadline.
For more information, refer to General Rules.
Scoresheets, Forms and Contest Study Materials
Scoresheets, forms, contest study materials, and additional resources can be found at https://go.unl.edu/ne4hstem.
A list of 4‑H projects and links to 4‑H curriculum resources can be found at https://4h.unl.edu/resources/projects.
Division
865 - Model Building
Rules
Items in this category are not eligible for the State Fair.
Entries must have a completed model information sheet.
All models must be mounted on a firm bord of wood, heavy cardboard, or in an acrylic case.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 865 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-865-900 Level 1 Model – Build a simple model that is a snap together type or model which requires limited glue or paint. Use only parts furnished in the kit.
H-865-901 Level 2 Model – Build a model that requires glued assembly and exterior painting. Use only parts furnished with the kit.
H-865-902 Level 3 Model – Build a model that requires glued construction and painted on all surfaces other than chrome, glass, and tires. Must have at least one complex element such as moving parts (i.e. doors, hood, sail, rigging, etc.) or detailed painting (i.e. camouflage on airplanes, etc.). Additional parts not furnished with the model may be added.
H-865-903 Level 4 Model - Build a self-designed model or diorama. Models should have design plans included. Dioramas will be judged on accuracy of theme, appearance, construction, and audience appeal.
Division
860 - Computer Science
Rules
Refer to department rules.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 860 | 900-902 | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
H | 860 | 001-002 | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
H | 860 | 003-008 | 2 | $7 | $5 | $3 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
Level 1
H-860-900 Computer Art Poster – Exhibit should be created on 8 ½” x 11” paper using commercially available graphics software package & color or black & white paper. 4-H theme of your choice suggested.
H-860-901 Greeting Card – Develop a series of 4 to 6 greeting cards, each for a different occasion. Exhibit should be created on 8 ½” x 11” paper using commercially available graphics program & a color or black & white paper. The cards should vary in fold & design. Note what software package was used on the back. Prefabricated cards from commercially available card programs will not be accepted. Cards need to be placed in a protective plastic cover or notebook.
H-860-902 Booting Up Poster – Create a poster on a lesson learning in Booting Up, Unit 1. Examples might include hardware, software programs, how to take care of a computer & operating system.
Computer Mysteries: Level 2
H-860-001 Computer Application Notebook (SF277) – 4‑H member should use computer application to create a graphic notebook utilizing computer technology. This exhibit consists of a 8 ½” x 11” notebook which should include two parts:
- A detailed report describing:
- the task to be completed
- the computer application software required to complete the task
- specific features of the computer application software necessary for completing the task
- Print out of your project. Project may be in color or black and white. 4‑H member may create any of the following:
- greeting card (five different cards such as a birthday, wedding, anniversary, sympathy get well or other)
- business card (three cards for three different individuals and businesses)
- menu (minimum of two pages including short description of foods and pricing); book layout (I-book)
- promotional flyer (three flyers promoting three different events)
- newsletter (minimum two pages)
- other: examples such as precision farming or family business logo etc.
H-860-002 Produce a Computer Slideshow Presentation (SF276) – Using presentation software a 4‑H Exhibitor designs a multimedia computer presentation on one topic related to youth. A 8 ½” x 11” three ring notebook with a printout of all the slides should be submitted. Slideshow should include a minimum of 10 slides and not more than 25. Incorporate appropriate slide layouts, graphics, animations, and audio (music or voice and transition sounds do not count). Each slide should include notes for a presentation. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
Computer Mysteries: Level 3
H-860-003 Produce an Audio/Video Computer Presentation (SF276) – Using presentation software a 4‑H exhibitor designs a multimedia computer presentation on one topic related to youth, including audio and/or video elements. A notebook with a printout of all the slides should be submitted. The presentation should be at least two minutes in length and no more than five minutes in length, appropriate graphics, sound and either a video clip, animation, or voice over and/or original video clip. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
H-860-004 How to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Presentation (SF276) – Youth design a fully automated two to five minute 4‑H “how to” video. Submissions should incorporate a picture or video of the 4‑H member as well as their name (first name only), age (as of January 1 of the current year), years in 4‑H, and their personal interests or hobbies. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
H-860-005 Virtual Platform Presentation (SF276) – Youth design a fully automated educational presentation using any multimedia platform such as Tik Tok, YouTube, Canva, Canvas, etc. Submissions may include a notebook, poster, etc., explaining the process, experience, and/or presentation. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
H-860-006 Create a Website/Blog or App (SF275) – Design a simple website, blog, or app for providing information about a topic related to youth. Include an explanation of why the entry was created. Any current website, blog, or app development platform is accepted such as Google Sites, iBuildApp, Wix, etc. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
H-860-007 3D Printing (SF1050) – 3D printing uses plastic or other materials to build a three-dimensional (3D) object from a digital design (including 3D Pen Creation). 4‑H may use original designs or someone else’s they have redesigned in a unique way. Exhibits will be judged based on the motivation and/or problem identified. For example, 3D objects printed as part of the design process for robot or other engineering project.
- Must include design notebook that addresses the following questions:
- What was the motivation for your design or the problem you were solving with your design? i.e. Is your item a functional or decorative piece?
- Please include a picture of original design, citation of designer/website OR if design is completely original (you created it using CAD software), then state that it’s original. If item was not completely original, indicate what you did to the original design to modify it to better meet the design problem stated in #1 above. Its design was modified multiple times, please indicate what change was made with each modification, and what prompted the need for the change. i.e. I printed it and the design was too fragile, so I resliced the print to make thicker external walls, or to have a denser infill.
- Define your process for designing/printing. What software and/or hardware was used (indicate type of 3D printer or if item was created with 3D pen)?
- What materials were selected for your project?
- If your final design has any moving parts, define how you determined appropriate allowance in your design.
- Identify any changes that you would make to improve your design.
H-860-008 Maker Space/Digital Fabrication (SF1050) – This project is a computer generated projected created using a laser cutter, vinyl cutter, heat press or CNC router. Vector or 3D based software such as Corel Draw or Fusion 360 would be an example of an appropriate software used to create your finished project.
- Project should include a 8.5 inch x 11 inch three ring notebook with the following:
- What motivated you to create this project
- Software and equipment used
- Directions on how to create the project
- Prototype of plans
- Cost of creating project
- Iterations or modifications made to original plans
- Changes you would make if you remade the project
Division
870 - Electricity
Rules
Refer to department rules.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 870 | 900-906 | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
H | 870 | 001-004 | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
H | 870 | 005-008 | 2 | $7 | $5 | $3 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
Magic of Electricity – Level 1
H-870-900 Bright Lights – Create your own flashlight using items around your house. Flashlights should be made of items that could be recycled or reused. NO KITS ALLOWED.
H-8709-01 Control the Flow – Make a switch by creating a circuit that you can open and close.
H-870-902 Conducting Things - Make a circuit with a switch & a light bulb that can be used to test different household items for their ability to act as an insulator or conductor. You must find five items that are conductors & five items that are insulators. Create a table that illustrates your results.
H-870-903 Is There a Fork in the Road – Using the following items to construct one parallel & one series circuit.
- Two (2) D-cell batteries
- Two (2) Battery Holders
- Two (2) 1.5 Volt light bulbs
- Two (2) Light Bulb Holders
- Wire
- Wire Strippers
Investigating Electricity – Level 2
H-870-904 Case of the Switching Circuit – Build a three-way switch. Write a short essay or create a poster that illustrates how three-way switches function. (Investigating Electricity, p. 28)
H-870-905 Stop the Crime – Build an alarm & create a poster using photographs to show the step-by-step process you used to build your alarm. (Investigating Electricity, p. 32)
H-870-906 Electrical Poster – Poster should exemplify one of the lessons learned in the Investigating Electricity Project.
Electricity – Wired for Power: Unit 3
H-870-001 Electrical Tool/Supply Kit (SF224) – Create an electrical supply kit to be used for basic electrical repair around the house. Include a brief description of each item and its use. Container should be appropriate to hold items.
H-870-002 Lighting Comparison (SF225) – Display studying the efficiency of various lighting (incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, Light Emitting Diodes, etc.). Exhibit could be a poster display, or an actual item.
H-870-003 Electrical Display/Item (SF226) – Show an application of one of the concepts learned in the Wired for Power project. Examples include: re-wiring or building a lamp, re-wiring or making a heavy-duty extension cord or developing an electrical diagram of a house. Exhibit could be a poster display, or an actual item
H-870-004 Poster (SF227) – Poster should exemplify one of the lessons learned in the Wired for Power Project.
Electronics: Unit 4
H-870-005 Electrical/Electronic Part Identification (SF228) - Display different parts used for electrical/electronic work. The exhibit should show the part (either picture or actual item) and give a brief description, including a symbol of each part and its function. Display should include a minimum of 10 different parts.
H-870-006 - Electronic Display - (SF229) - Show an application of one of the concepts learned in the Entering Electronics project. Examples include: components of an electronic device (refer to p. 35 of the Entering Electronics manual).
H-870-007 - Electronic Project - (SF230) - Exhibit an electronic item designed by the 4‑H'er or from a manufactured kit that shows the electronic expertise of the 4‑H’er. Examples include: a radio, a computer, or a voltmeter.
H-870-008 - Poster - (SF231) - Poster should exemplify one of the lessons learned in the Entering Electronics Project. Posters can be any size up to 28 inches by 22 inches.
Division
900 - Energy
Rules
Refer to department rules.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 900 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-900-001 - Create and Compare Energy Resources Poster - (SF307) - Poster should explore two alternative/renewable energy resources. Compare and contrast the two resources including two of the following information: amount of energy created, costs of production, usability of the energy, pros/cons of environmental impacts, etc. Posters can be any size up to 28 inches by 22 inches.
H-900-002 - Experiment Notebook - (SF305) - Notebook will explore the scientific method involving alternative/renewable energy sources. Information required. 1. Hypothesis 2. Research 3. Experiment 4. Measure 5. Report or Redefine Hypothesis.
H-900-003 - Solar as Energy Display/Poster - (SF308) - Item should be the original design of the 4‑H member. Include the item, or a picture if item is in excess of 6 feet tall or 2 feet x 2 feet. Include a notebook of why the item was designed and how it harnesses the power of the sun. Examples include solar ovens, solar panels, etc.
H-900-004 - Water as Energy Display/Poster - (SF308) - Item should be the original design of the 4‑H member. Include the item, or a picture if item is in excess of 6 feet tall or 2 feet x 2 feet. Include a notebook of why the item was designed and how it harnesses the power of water.
H-900-005 - Wind as Energy Display/Poster - (SF308) - Item should be the original design of the 4‑H member. Include the item, or a picture if item is in excess of 6 feet tall or 2 feet x 2 feet. Include a notebook of why the item was designed and how it harnesses the power of wind.
H-900-006 - Other Nebraska Alternative Energy - (SF306) - Notebook should explore Nebraskan alternative energy source besides wind, water, and solar power. Include information on type of power chosen, infrastructure for distribution, what resources are needed to create this alternative resource, cost of production, and potential uses of bio-products. Examples include geothermal, biomass, ethanol, bio-diesel, methane reactors, etc.
H-900-900 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-900-901 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-900-902 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
Division
880 - Geospatial
Rules
Refer to department rules.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 880 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-880-001 - Poster - (SF299) - Create a poster communicating a GPS theme such as How GPS or GIS works, Careers that use GPS or GIS, How to use GPS, What is GIS, GPS or GIS in Agriculture, Precision Agriculture, or a geospatial topic of interest.
H-880-002 - 4‑H Favorite Places or Historical Site Poster - (SF299) - The 4‑H member identifies a favorite place or historical site (including grave sites) in Nebraska. Exhibit should include latitude and longitude, digital picture, and local area map. Poster size should not exceed 22 inches x 28 inches.
H-880-003 - GPS Notebook - (SF300) - Keep a log of at least five places visited using a GPS enabled device. At least one site should be from a community other than where you live. For each site, record the latitude, longitude and elevation. Also include a description of the site, a paragraph explaining what was interesting about the site or finding it. Photos of each site and/or cache are optional but encouraged.
H-880-004 - Geocache - (SF301) - Assemble a themed geocache (physical geocache is REQUIRED with exhibit). Each geocache should be a water-tight container. It should include a logbook and pencil for finders to log their visits and may include small trinket, geo-coins, etc. for the finders to trade. Documentation should include a title, teaser description and the geographic coordinates of intended placement. The entry may include a photograph of the cache in its intended hiding place. Register the site at geocaching.com following the Nebraska State Fair.
H-880-005 - Agriculture Precision Mapping - (SF302) - 4‑H members will assemble a 8.5 inches x 11 inches three-ring notebook that will include a minimum of two digital copies of various data layers that can be used in precision agriculture to identify spatial patterns and/or correlations (printed copies of websites were applications can be purchased is acceptable) A report of how the analysis of the various data will be used to make a management decision.
H-880-006 - 4‑H History Map/Preserve 4‑H History (SF303) – Nominate a Point of Interest for the 4‑H History Map Project. Include copy of submitted form in folder or notebook. To nominate a site for the 4‑H history map please go to http://arcg.is/1bvGogV. For more information about 4‑H history go to: https://4‑Hhistorypreservation.com/history_map//. For a step-by-step video on nominating a point, please go to this link: http://tinyurl.com/nominate4h. Write a brief description of the historical significance of 4‑H place or person. (a minimum of one paragraph).
H-880-007 - GIS Thematic Map (SF302) – Using any GIS software, create a thematic map. Thematic maps can utilize any subject of interest to the 4‑H members. Example map would be Amelia Earhart’s or Sir Francis Drake’s voyage, population density maps, water usage maps or 4‑H project in Nebraska. Create GIS Map using data from books and/or internet. Use reliable data, (U.S. Center or U.S. Census Bureau etc.) Map any size from 8.5 inches x 11 inches up to 36 inches x 24 inches, which should include Title, Base Map, Neat Line, North Arrow, and Legend. Identify the source of your information on the back of the map.
H-880-008 – Virtual Geocache (SF300) - Keep a log of at least five places visited using a virtual geocache platform. At least one site should be from a community other than where you live. For each site, record the latitude, longitude and elevation. Also include a description of the site, a paragraph explaining what was interesting about the site or finding it. Photos of each site and/or cache are optional but encouraged.
H-880-900 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-880-901 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-880-902 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
Division
861 - Robotics
Rules
Refer to department rules.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 861 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-861-001 - Robotics Poster - (SF236) - Create a poster (28 inches X 22 inches) communicating a robotics theme such as “Robot or Not”, “Pseudocode”, “Real World Robots”, “Careers in Robots”, “Autonomous Robotics”, “Precision Agriculture” or a robotic topic of interest to the 4‑H member.
H-861-002 - Robotics Notebook - (SF237) – Explore a robotics topic in-depth and present your findings in a notebook. Documentation should include any designs, research, notes, pseudocode, data tables or other evidence of the 4‑H members learning experience. The 8.5 inch x 11 inches notebook should contain at least three pages. Topics could include a programming challenge, programming skills, calibration, sensor exploration, or any of the topics suggested in Class 1.
H-861-004 - Robotics /Careers Interview - (SF239) – Interview someone who is working in the field of robotics and research the career in robotics. Interviews can either be written or in a multimedia format (CD/DVD) such as a short video uploaded to a cloud sharing service. Include a QR code with your project to allow for judging access. Multimedia reports should be between three to five minutes in length. All digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules. Written interviews should be in a 8.5 inch x 11 inch notebook. Written reports should be three to five pages, double spaced, 12-point font, and 1” margins.
H-861-005 - Robotics Sensor Notebook - (SF241) – Write scratch code which includes at least three sensor activity. Include the code written and explain the code function. Codes can be submitted as a multimedia format uploaded to a cloud sharing service. Include a QR code with your project to allow judging access. Multimedia presentations should be three to five minutes in length. State Fair qualified digital exhibits must be uploaded according to the guidelines and by the deadline listed in the department rules.
H-861-007 - Kit Labeled Robot (cannot be free programmed) and Notebook - (SF243) – This class is intended for explorations of robotic components such as arms or vehicles OR educational kits marketed as robots that do not have the ability to be programmed to “sense, plan and act.” The exhibit should include a notebook with the robot the youth has constructed.
- Included in the notebook should be:
- a description of what the robot does
- pictures of programs the robot can perform
- why they chose to build this particular form
- how the problem solved any issues they might have had during building and programming.
- A picture story of assembly is recommended. If a robot is more than 15 inches wide and 20 inches tall it may not be displayed in locked cases at the Nebraska State Fair. If the robot is to large, we recommend you create a video of how your robot works. We recommend that you submit the project under class H-861-003 – Robotics Video in the Robotics Showcase.
H-861-008 - 3D Printed Robotics Parts - (SF244) - This class is intended for 4‑H members to create parts through 3D printing, that help create their robot or aid the robot in completing a coded function. Project should include a notebook describing the process used to create the project, describing the success of your designed piece (did it work), intended use of the product and the modifications made to the item.
H-880-900 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-880-901 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-880-902 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
Division
850 - Rockets and Drones
Rules
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit.
Rockets must be supported substantially in order to protect the rocket from breakage. Rockets are to be mounted on a base that has dimensions equal to or less than 12" x 12" and the base should be 3/4" thick. No metal bases. If the rocket fins extend beyond the edges of the required base (12” x 12”), then construct a base that is large enough to protect the fins. The base size is dictated by the size of the rocket fins.
The rockets must be mounted vertically. Please do not attach sideboards or backdrops to the displays. In addition, a used engine or length of dowel pin is to be glued and/or screwed into the board and extended up into the rocket's engine mount to give added stability.
Rockets must be equipped as prepared for launching, with wadding and parachute or other recovery system. Rockets entered with live engines, wrong base size or sideboards will be disqualified.
A report, protected in a clear plastic cover, must include: 1) rocket specification (include original or photo of manufacture packaging stating rocket skill level), 2) a flight record for each launching (weather, distance, flight height), 3) number of launchings, 4) flight pictures 5) Safety (how did you choose your launch site? Document safe launch, preparations, and precautions) 6) objectives learned and 7) conclusions.
The flight record should describe the engine used, what the rocket did in flight and recovery success. Points will not be deducted for launching, flight or recovery failures described. This includes any damage that may be shown on the rocket. Complete factory assembled rockets will not be accepted at the State Fair.
Judging is based upon display appearance, rocket appearance, workmanship, design or capabilities for flight, number of times launched and report. Three launches are required to earn the maximum launch points given on the score sheets. For scoring at the State Fair, only actual launches count, misfires will not count towards one of the required three launches.
For self-designed rockets only, please include a digital recorded copy of one flight. In the documentation, please include a description of stability testing before the rocket was flown.
The skill level of a project is not determined by the number of years in project. Skill level is determined by the level listed on the manufacturing packaging.
4‑H Rocket project levels are not intended to correspond to National Association of Rocketry model rocket difficulty ratings or levels.
High power rockets (HPR) are similar to model rocketry with differences that include the propulsion power and weight increase of the model. They use motors in ranges over “G” power and/or weigh more than laws and regulations allow for unrestricted model rockets. These rockets are NOT appropriate for 4‑H projects and will be disqualified.
3D Printed Rockets are deemed unsafe in fabrication and design for launch. These rockets are NOT appropriate for 4‑H Rocket projects and will be disqualified if entered into Rocket Classes. 3D Printed Rockets are ACCETPABLE if entered into 3D Printing Classes.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 850 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-850-001 Rocket (SF92) Any Skill Level Rocket with wooden fins and cardboard body tubes painted by hand or air brush.
H-850-002 Aerospace Display (SF277) Poster or display board that displays or exemplifies one of the principles learned in the Lift Off project. Examples include: display of rocket parts and purpose, explaining the parts of a NASA rocket or shuttle, interview of someone in the aerospace field, or kite terminology. Include notebook containing terminology (definition), and what was learned. Display can be any size up to 22 inches by 28 inches.
H-850-003 Rocket (SF92) Any Skill Level Rocket with wooden fins and cardboard body tubes painted using commercial application, for example: spray paint.
H-850-004 Rocket (SF92) Any self-designed rocket with wooden fins and cardboard body
H-850-005 Drone Poster (SF277)- Exhibit must be designed to educate yourself and others on one or more of the following topics: drone technologies, uses of drones, the different types of drones, types of training needed to operate drones, and the laws and regulations users must follow. Posters can be any size up to 22 inches x 28 inches.
H-850-006 Drone Video (SF277)-Exhibit must demonstrate how the drone interacts with the outside world. Examples include: field scouting, surveying damage from used for structural engineering, or any other example of your choosing. Video should not exceed five minutes.
Division
920 - Welding
Rules
Refer to department rules.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 920 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-920-001 - Welding Joints - (SF281) - a display of one butt, one lap and one fillet weld.
- All welds should be made with the same electrode/wire/rod size and number.
- Welds should be made only on one side of metal so penetration can be judged.
- Welds should be cleaned with a chipping hammer and wire brush. Apply a coat of light oil (penetrating oil) to the metal to prevent rusting. Wipe off excess oil.
- It is suggested that all welds be of the same size and thickness as metal. These pieces, referred to as coupons, should be 1 ½ to 2 inches wide and 3 ½ to 4 inches long. A good way to get this size is to buy a new cold rolled strap iron and cut it to length. The extra width is needed to provide enough metal to absorb the heat from the welding process and prevent the coupons from becoming too hot before the bead is completed. Narrower coupons will become very hot, making an average welder setting too cold at the bead start, just about right in the middle, and too hot at the end. The correct way to weld narrow strips is to make short beads and allow time to cool, however this project requires a full-length bead.
- Stick welding: Suggested coupon thickness - ¼ inch if using 1/8 inch rod. Suggested rod-AC and DC straight or reverse polarity- first E-7014, second E-6013
- MIG welding: Suggested coupon thickness - ¼ inch if using .035 wire and 1/8 inch if using .023 wire
- Oxy-Acetylene: Suggested coupon thickness –1/8-inch. Suggested rod 1/8-inch mild steel rod
H-920-002 - Position Welds - (SF281) - a display showing three beads welded in the vertical down, horizontal and overhead positions.
- It is suggested that all welds be of the same size and thickness of metal. These pieces are referred to as coupons. The welds can be on one coupon that is about 4 inches x 4 inches or on individual coupons that are about 2 inches x 4 inches and ¼ inch thick. Suggested rods for this class of position welds for AC and DC straight or reverse polarity is, first E-6013, second E-7014 and E-6010 for DC reverse polarity only.
- Welds should be cleaned with a chipping hammer and wire brush. Apply a coat of light oil (penetrating oil) to the metal to prevent rusting. Wipe off excess oil.
- 4‑H Welding Project Tips and Suggestions: Class 3 & 4 1. All welds should be cleaned and protected from rust with paint or light oil. Plans are to be complete enough that if they were given to a welding shop, the item could be made without further instructions. Bill of materials should include a cost for all items used including steel, electrodes, paint, wheels, etc.
H-920-003 – Welding Art – (SF283) – any art created using tack welds to hold the metal pieces together (examples include horseshoe projects). Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside, it is required to have an appropriate outdoor finish.
H-920-004 - Welding Article - (SF281) - any shop article where welding is used in construction. 60% of the item must be completed by 4‑H member and notes regarding laser welding or machine welding must be included. Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside, it is required to have an appropriate outdoor finish because project may be displayed outside.
H-920-005 - Welding Furniture - (SF282) – any furniture with 75% welding is used in the construction. 60% of the item must be completed by 4‑H member and notes regarding laser welding or machine welding must be included. Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside, it is required to have appropriate outdoor finish because project may be displayed outside.
H-920-006 - Plasma Cutter/Welder Design - (SF279) – Plasma cutters/welders allowed for detailed design(s) to butt cut into metal. 4‑H members will create a notebook describing the design process to create the "artwork" to butt cut into metal. In the notebook include:
- A photo (front and back) of the finished project.
- Instructions on how the design was created (include software used), this allows for replication of the project.
- Lessons learned or improvements to the project.
- Steps to finish project.
H-920-007 - Composite Weld Project - (SF280) - 60% of the project must be welded and 40% made from other materials such as wood, rubber, etc. Type of welder, welder settings, all plans, plan alternations, and a bill for material must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside, it is required to have an appropriate outdoor finish because project may be displayed outside.
H-920-900 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-920-901 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
H-920-902 – Other Item Made in this Project Area
Division
911 - Woodworking
Rules
The name and county of each exhibitor should appear separately on the back of each board, poster or article and on the front cover of the notebooks so owner of the exhibit may be identified if the entry tag is separated from the exhibit.
All articles exhibited must include a plan (with drawings or sketch or blueprints) stating dimensions and other critical instructions a builder would need to know how to build the project and 4‑Her's name & county.
Plans may include narrative instructions in addition to the dimension drawings and include any alternations to the original plan.
Part of the score depends on how well the project matches the plans. If the plans are modified, the changes from the original need to be noted on the plans.
All plans used for making the article must be securely attached and protected by a clear plastic cover.
If the project (i.e. picnic tables, wishing wells, swings, chairs, bridges, doghouses, etc.) is designed to be used outside, it will be displayed outside.
All outside projects MUST have entry tag and supporting information placed in a protective bag to prevent damage from weather events such as rain and be ATTACHED to projects with string, zip ties, etc.
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 911 | 900-907 | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
H | 911 | 001-008 | 2 | $7 | $5 | $3 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-911-900 – Woodworking Article – Item made using skills learned in the Measuring Up manual. Examples include recipe holder, stilts, or other skill level appropriate item. Items should be entered with construction plans.
H-911-901 – Woodworking Display – Display exemplifying one of the principles learned in the Measuring Up project
H-911-902 – Other Item Made in Measuring Up – Level1
H-911-903 – Woodworking Article – Item made using skills learned in the Making the Cut Manual. Examples include birdhouse, foot stool, & napkin or letter holder. Items should be entered with construction plans.
H-911-904 – Woodworking Display – Display exemplifying one of the principles learned in the Making the Cut project.
H-911-905 – Other Item Made in Making the Cut – Unit 2
H-911-906 – Other Item Made in Nailing it Together – Unit 3
H-911-907 – Other Item Made in Finishing Up – Unit 4
H-911-001 Woodworking Article - (SF97) - Item should be made using either joints, hinges, dowels, or a dado joining. Item is required to be appropriately finished. Examples include: bookcase, coffee table or end table.
H-911-003 Recycled Woodworking Display - (SF97) – Article made from recycled, reclaimed or composite wood. Article must be appropriately finished and/or sealed and utilize one or more woodworking techniques from page two of the Unit 3 manual. Exhibit must include the woodworking plan and a minimum one-page report of how the engineering design process was used to develop the woodworking plan.
- Engineering Design Process
- State the problem (Why did you need this item?)
- Generate possible solutions (How have others solved the problem? What other alternatives or designs were considered?)
- Select a solution (How does your solution compare on the basis of cost, availability, and functionality?)
- Build the item (What was your woodworking plan, and what processes did you use to build your item?)
- Reason for article finish (What type of finish, how did you finish or why you choose this finish?)
- Evaluate (How does your item solve the original need?)
- Present results (How would you do this better next time?)
H-911-004 - Composite Wood Project - (SF97) - 60% of the project must be wood and 40% made from other materials such as metal, rubber, resin, etc. All plans and plan alternations must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside it is required to have appropriate outdoor finish because project may be displayed outside.
H-911-005 - Outdoor Wood Project made with Treated Wood - (SF97) - Treated wood projects DO NOT have to have a finished coating. All plans and plan alterations must be attached to the article. Protect plans with a cover. If project is designed to be outside. Examples include: picnic tables, planters, outdoor furniture, etc.
H-911-006 - Woodworking Article - (SF97) Examples include: dovetailing, making a pen using lathe, overlays, using a router, etc. Item is required to be appropriately finished.
H-911-007 – Wood Projects created on a Turning Lathe - (SF98 ) - Article is the object created from spinning wood on a turning lathe. Article must be appropriately finished and/or sealed. Exhibit must include plans detailing design and process of completion, any changes made to the design, details of finishing techniques, and other relevant information about the article. Must include a description of tools used.
H-911-008 - Recycled Woodworking Display - (SF97) Article made from recycled, reclaimed or composite wood. Article must be appropriately finished and/or sealed and utilize one or more woodworking techniques from page 2 of the Unit 4 manual. Exhibit must include the woodworking plan and a minimum one-page report of how the design and engineering process was used to develop the woodworking plan.
- Engineering Design Process:
- State the problem (Why did you need this item?)
- Generate possible solutions (How have others solved the problem? What other alternatives or designs were considered?)
- Select a solution (How does your solution compare on the basis of cost, availability, and functionality?)
- Reason for article finish (What type of finish, how did you finish or why you choose this finish?)
- Build the item (What was your woodworking plan, and what processes did you use to build your item?)
- Evaluate (How does your item solve the original need?) 7. Present results (How would you do this better next time?)
Division
889 - Small Engine & Vehicle Restoration
Department | Division | Class | Pay | Purple | Blue | Red | White |
H | 889 | All | 1 | $6 | $4 | $2 | $1 |
Classes – 900 level classes are not eligible for State Fair.
H-889-900 – Small Engine Project – Reconditioned, repaired or overhauled small engine. Include a notebook with a source of original engine, use of engine, repair parts list and cost. Gas tank must be empty.
H-889-901 – Small Engine Display or Poster – Show parts or system of a small engine- cut-away engine, worn or broken parts, or step-by-step procedure of how to perform repairs or maintenance. The exhibit should have labels, short written descriptions, drawings, etc.
H-889-902 – Restored/Overhauled Vehicle – Automobiles, motorcycles, tractors, or multi-cylinder engines that have been restored/overhauled to original specifications. Include a notebook with sources, used and repaired parts list, what work was done and before/after photos.
H-889-903 – Customized Vehicle – Automobiles, motorcycles, tractors or multi-cylinder engines that have been customized from the original specifications. Include a notebook with source, used, repair list, cost, what work as done and before and after pictures.
H-889-904 – Non-Motorized Items – Trailers, farm implementations, wagons, etc. that have been restored, customized or overhauled. Include a notebook with sources, use, repair list, cost, what work was done, and before/after photos.