4th-5th Grade Rules and Guidelines

The 4th and 5th grade rules and guidelines are based on those published by the UNM STEM Research Challenge, which is the regional competition for GOK students.  

GOK will have the opportunity to send 5 students (only 4th and 5th grade students are eligible) to the regional science and engineering fair competition.  It will take place March 18-20 & 22, 2026 at EXPO New Mexico. If your student is interested in being considered for the regional competition, please make sure to thoroughly read the information provided here, as well as the information linked below. 

Students are encouraged to choose a topic of interest; however, the following topics ARE NOT permitted for elementary students:

• research involving human subjects

• research involving vertebrate animals

• research involving potentially hazardous biological agents (PHBA)

• research that utilizes controlled substances (including prescription drugs, alcohol, tobacco) 

• research involving hazardous substances or devices (including hazardous chemicals, radioactive materials, firearms, carcinogens, explosives, paintball/airsoft guns, rockets, pesticides, etc.)

If your student advances to the Regional Competition, this form must be completed. Please note - only forms 1 and 1A need to be completed because the other forms relate to topics that are not permitted for elementary students.

Please make sure to also review the General Guidelines applicable to all projects.

Important Links:

Judging Criteria and Processes

Project Material Requirements

Project Ideas