Science project
Investigating the Influence of Packaging on Children
Grade Level: 9th to 12th; Type: Social Science
Objective:
This experiment will evaluate how much influence an enticing package has on childrens’ willingness to try a new snack.
Research Questions:
- Does the color/imagery on a package influence childrens’ willingness to eat what is inside?
In this experiment, students will investigate which packaging characteristics appeal most to children. Can an appealing package influence kids to eat healthier food?
Materials:
- Computer
- Graphics software
- Printer
- Test subjects (children from 1st grade to 7th grade)
Experimental Procedure:
- On the computer, use graphics software to design packaging for several cereal boxes.
- Use basic colors, fonts and images on some boxes and vibrant/fun colors, fonts and images on other boxes. Try out different concepts that you feel might appeal to children.
- On every design, include words that would be used to describe a healthy cereal. Sample words could include: 100% whole grains, low fat, and sugar-free. Experiment with the word placement on some of your box designs.
- Show children in many different age groups images of your cereal boxes and ask them to rate, on a scale of 1 to 10, their willingness to try the food in each “package.”
- Divide up the surveys by age group and evaluate the responses. Which packages received the highest ratings? What did these packages have in common? How did placement of the “healthy” words affect the ratings given to the cereal boxes? Which group of children was most influenced by the vibrant package designs?
Terms/Concepts: influence of packaging on children
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Education.com provides the Science Fair Project Ideas for informational purposes only. Education.com does not make any guarantee or representation regarding the Science Fair Project Ideas and is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage, directly or indirectly, caused by your use of such information. By accessing the Science Fair Project Ideas, you waive and renounce any claims against Education.com that arise thereof. In addition, your access to Education.com's website and Science Fair Project Ideas is covered by Education.com's Privacy Policy and site Terms of Use, which include limitations on Education.com's liability.
Warning is hereby given that not all Project Ideas are appropriate for all individuals or in all circumstances. Implementation of any Science Project Idea should be undertaken only in appropriate settings and with appropriate parental or other supervision. Reading and following the safety precautions of all materials used in a project is the sole responsibility of each individual. For further information, consult your state's handbook of Science Safety.