Family Guide to 4-H

2002

Understanding 4-H Projects

4-H Membership Expectations

The expectations for 4-H membership are a balance between 4-H project work, involvement in the 4-H club, participation in 4-H activities and events, and working towards improving one's personal growth. This section addresses the project work component of a member's 4-H experience.

Project Work Through 4-H

Each project book contained in this section is a guide for members conducting activities through an organized project group or at home under the guidance of a parent or adult. In it you will find a wealth of information and activities needed to plan and conduct a project.

Q. What is a 4-H Project?

A: A 4-H project is made up of three types of activities:

• Hands-on Activities: making, producing, selling, practicing, observing, testing, interviewing, etc.
• Organized Activities: demonstrations, speeches, workshops, camps, county judging, project activities, exhibits, etc.
• Leadership/Citizenship Activities: conducting, planning, teaching, assisting, informing, organizing, etc.

Q. Does a 4-H member have to take a project?

A: Yes. However, there are two ways to take a project-either as an individual project or as a group project.

Q. Where does a 4-H member start when choosing a project?

A: If you need or wish to take an individual project use the information in this section to help you decide.

Q. Where does a member begin when planning a 4-H project?

A: Start by reading the section of the project manual called the Member Project Guide. Every project manual has one located near the front. It may also be a separate supplement. The Member Project Guide offers step-by-step instructions for conducting the three types of activities that make up a 4-H project.

Q. Does a member have to do everything the Member Project Guide suggests?

A: Of course not. That decision is up to the member, parents and advisor. Members may plan to do a little or a lot based upon their interests and abilities. Project plans can also change as a member's interests and needs change.

Q. How much time can be spent on a project?

A: It can be a matter of days, weeks, or even months, depending on the size and scope of the member's plan. Projects can also be repeated to accomplish additional project goals.

Q. Are there incentives for members who complete their project(s) as planned?

A: Members who complete their projects as planned can receive one of Ohio's 4-H Project Achievement Certificates (4-H 905-908). These are awarded based upon the level of difficulty of the project as listed in the Family Guide; e.g. beginning, intermediate, advanced. There is also a special certificate available if members plan and complete a self determined project.

Q. Is it necessary to attend county-level judging to complete a project?

A: For some members, project completion can be nothing more than participating in project activities, completing a predetermined number of project goals and reviewing accomplishments with a parent or project advisor. If a member chooses to go to county-level judging or the county fair, check with your 4-H advisor for specific judging requirements. For example, sometimes it is necessary to bring an exhibit along with your project manual to interview judging.

Project Selection and Ordering

When choosing a project, consider your interests, background, what is necessary to start your project, and what is available to help you complete it. The At-A-Glance 4-H Project Selection Guide on pages 28 to 31 will help you choose a project. Review this as a family, club or group. A good rule of thumb is to select no more than two projects as a first-year member. Once you've selected your project(s) for the year, request your manual(s) using the form provided by your 4-H Club Advisor (if any) or the one provided on page 31. Some projects require project supplements. Look for the ® to see if the project you selected needs a supplement.