Obtain an ant habitat and ant food if the experiment requires observation of the ant colony or if ant behavior cannot be viewed from the ground surface. Habitats and food can be purchased online or from a toy or nature store. Verify that none of the items are broken. If the ants can escape from their habitat, they will. Some experiments require additional materials such as household chemicals, flashlights or a refrigerator. Identify the materials needed to ensure they are available when needed.
Choose a behavior or characteristic to study. Ant behavior is complex. How tunnels are created and how ants interact with each other or their environment can be studied in a variety of experiments. Ant physiology, such as how their bodies are composed and how they protect themselves, as well as the effect of ant pheromones on how they communicate with each other and find food, are also subjects for investigation.
Learn what foods local ants like the best. Conduct this experiment away from the kitchen to prevent an infestation. Observe several types of food placed on lids to determine which food the ants prefer. Modify the experiment to determine if the distance from a specific food changes the number of ants who find it. Take notes and pictures over the course of several hours.
Use an ant habitat to discover reactions to changes in temperature or light. Test the effect of different types of sand on the ants' ability to tunnel. Kits with colored sand are available to increase the visual effect of this experiment. Determine what household items can be used to repel ants. Learn if electricity can be used to deter ants.
Use local ants to reduce the impact on the environment. Document each step with pictures whenever possible. Take notes throughout the process to ensure accuracy of results. Take advantage of media such as a computer to create a presentation. Understand the criteria for submission if the project is for a science fair. Encourage the student to complete the project independently. Modify the experiment to the age and skill level of the student.
Exercise caution when working with ants. Some species can bite or sting. Contact a local pest controller to determine how to dispose of the ants when the experiment is finished. Local species can be released, but other species may be considered invasive. Science fair projects will need to be transported. Ensure that the habitat can be moved easily without damage to the structure.