Mia had spent weeks on her science fair project about how plants grow. She had measured, photographed, and recorded data every single day. Her display board was colorful and neat, with charts showing exactly what she had discovered. She was certain she would win first place.
At the fair, Mia noticed a boy named Tyler setting up next to her. His project was about the same topic—how plants grow—but his board was messy, with crooked photos and scribbled labels. Mia smiled to herself. This competition would be easy.
When the judges came around, they asked Tyler to explain his project. To Mia's surprise, Tyler spoke with excitement about his failures. Three of his plants had died, and he explained exactly what had gone wrong each time. He had learned more from his mistakes than from his successes.
The judges nodded thoughtfully and asked questions. Tyler answered each one, explaining not just what happened, but why it happened and what he would do differently next time.
Mia's heart sank a little when the judges reached her. She had focused so much on making everything look perfect that she hadn't thought deeply about what her results actually meant.
When the ribbons were announced, Tyler won first place. Mia received an honorable mention. At first, she felt disappointed. But as she packed up her board, she realized something important: science isn't about looking perfect. It's about learning—even from things that go wrong.
"Nice project," Tyler said as he walked by. "Maybe we could work together next year?"
Mia smiled. "I'd like that. I have a lot to learn."