Self-Determined Projects and Idea Starters
Self-Determined Projects
If you're a 4-H member with a great project idea of your own or someone who's ready to go beyond a current project book, consider doing a self-determined project. Use the Self-Determined Project Guide (print version or fill-in version) to describe your project, set goals, and record your activities.
Self-Determined projects may be repeated if new areas of interest, learning experiences, and leadership/citizenship activities are selected. Don't forget, a completed Self-Determined Project Guide (print version or fill-in version) is required for each self-determined project.
Not sure what topic to explore? You can get some great ideas by reviewing the Idea Starters below.
Idea Starters
Each Idea Starter is written as an open invitation to explore a new or innovative topic as a self-determined project. This growing list of Idea Starters provides a timely and exciting variety of non-traditional 4-H topics. There is something here for everyone!
Don't forget, every Idea Starter must be used with the Self-Determined Project Guide (print version or fill-in version).
365.01 Astronomy
365.02 Model Railroading
365.03 Weather
365.04 Clowning
365.06 American Sign Language New in 2012!
365.05 Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils
365.07 Computers
365.08 Discovering Genetics
365.09 Canoeing
365.10 Local Foods: Does It Matter What You Eat?
365.11 Camp Counseling
365.12 Digital Imaging
365.13 Reptiles and Amphibians
365.14 Climate Change
365.16 Viruses, Bacteria, and Fungi, Oh My! (Plant Pathology)
365.17
Babysitting
365.18 Ways of Knowing Water
365.19 The Work World Is Calling . . . Are You Ready?
365.21 Skateboarding New in 2012!
365.22 Pigeons New in 2012!
365.23 Native American Artifacts: Arrowheads New in 2012!
To suggest a topic for an idea starter or even write your own, please email Jane Wright at wright.646@cfaes.osu.edu. To write one, follow the guidelines in Writing a 4-H Idea Starter.
