Horse breeds differ in terms of their size, anatomical features and temperaments. The distinctions between breeds help owners select the right type of horse for their needs. One option for an eighth grade science fair is to select several breeds and create a diagram for each that highlights the traits or physical features that are specific to the breed. Based on your research, determine the best type of horse for a specific type of work. For example, heavy horses like the Cleavland Bay are best for drafting while lithe, agile Dutch Warmbloods are better jumpers. You may also create your own "master breed" for a particular task. Choose elements from several breeds and combine them into a horse of your own design; create a drawn anatomical model of the horse and a key explaining what elements your chose from which existing breeds and why.
A project that explores horse anatomy is a viable option for an eighth grade science fair project. One idea is to focus on a specific part of the horse and analyze its structure and function. For example, horse hoofs are designed to withstand extreme forces, propel the animal during motion and cushion more sensitive interior structures. The project might include a diagram of the hoof, a homemade model and a chart describing what makes a horse hoof different from a cow hoof. Another option is to explore a single body system of the horse, like the muscular or reproductive system. The project should stress what makes the body system unique to horses compared to similar animals, and how the system supports the horse's physical needs and well-being.
An eighth grade science fair project that explores horse color preferences invites students to use the scientific method to develop a hypothesis, design an experiment, collect data and interpret results. Previous studies demonstrate that horses are able to distinguish between the primary colors and exhibit slight red-green color blindness. To test these conclusions, students present a horse with its typical food or water in three differently colored buckets, like red, yellow and blue or red, green and white. Students then observe the horse during several feedings to determine whether or not the horse favors one color over the others. Students might compare the preferences of different horses to confirm or strengthen their results. A chart displayed at the science fair depicts the student's results.
A horse's heart rate is a reliable indicator of its mental and emotional state. Resting heart rates around 40 beats per minute indicate a calm horse, while resting heart rates over 60 beats per minute indicate distress; during activity, heart rates can be as high as 180 beats per minute. One option for assessing heart rates is to record a horse's heart rate prior to a standard session in the activity ring and compare it to the horse's post-activity heart rate. You or a trainer then record the heart rate after five-minute intervals of rest until the heart rate returns to normal. Determine how long it takes the horse to return to a calm state. In a second trial, record the post-activity heart rates during different calming procedures, like providing water, slow walking or brushing. A poster or chart that compares the rate of return to a calm resting rate serves as the fair display.