Self-determined &
idea starters

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 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 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.

365.01 Astronomy
365.02 Model Railroading
365.03 Weather
365.04 Clowning
365.05 Rocks, Minerals, and Fossils
365.06 Quiltmaking
365.07 Computers
365.09 Canoeing
365.11 Camp Counseling
365.12 Digital Imaging
365.13 Reptiles and Amphibians
365.14 Climate Change
365.15 Cake Decorating
365.16 Viruses, Bacteria, and Fungi, Oh My! (Plant Pathology)
365.17 Babysitting New in 2010!

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.

Idea Starters Coming This Fall

New in the fall of 2010 are idea starters on these topics. NOTE: These are not available as projects you can sign up for yet.

365.08 Discovering Genetics
365.10 Local Foods
365.18 Ways of Knowing Water
365.19 The Work World Is Calling . . . Are You Ready?
365.20 American Sign Language