JUDGING CRITERIA

FOR

35 pts. 1. Creative Ability - Does the project show originality of thinking and investigation of an original idea?

More specifically: Does the project show creativity and originality in:

*the question asked:

*the approach to solving the problem?

*the analysis of data?

*the use of equipment?

*the construction or design of new equipment?

35 pts. 2. Scientific Thought - Does the project show evidence or well organized work and use of scientific methods in investigating the problems?

More specifically:

*was the problem stated clearly?

*was the problem sufficiently limited that it was possible to attack it?

*was background reading appropriate in quality and scope?

*the hypothesis was clearly stated and reflected the background readings.

*was there a plan for obtaining a solution to the problem; that is, an experimental design demonstrating the understanding of the scientific method?

*were the variables clearly recognized and defined?

*observations were recorded in an orderly manner and were clearly summarized?

*tables, graphs, and illustrations were used effectively in interpreting the data.

*interpretation of data conformed with observation.

*conclusions and summary remarks were justified on the basis of experimental data.

*a report of the research should be presented in a written form. (A research format is suggested and recommended for statewide competition.)

10 pts. 3. Skill - Does the project show evidence of careful workmanship, and a clearly organized presentation of the steps taken in conducting the investigating and presenting the results and conclusions.

More specifically:

*was apparatus and equipment appropriately designed and/or used?

*to what degree were precision and accuracy of measurements considered?

10 pts. 4. Thoroughness - Does the project give a complete explanation of the scientific principle or process involved?

More specifically:

*was the project carried out to completion?

*were conclusions based on a single experiment, or were there replications?

*was the student aware of other approaches or theories concerning his project?

*was the student familiar with the scientific literature in the field in which he was working?

*appreciable time was evidently spent searching for and reading scientific articles?

*was some sort of "Log" book used to record data, ideas, etc. on a daily basis?

*the bibliography contained a significant number of relevant and timely references?

10 pts. 5. Clarity and Dramatic Presentation - Is the project presented in a manner that is easily understood, with an attractive layout that commands the attention of viewers with a clearly defined and well labeled display?

More specifically:

*did the student explain the project's purpose and procedures in a clear and concise manner?

*how clearly were data presented? Were clearly labeled graphs and tables used when appropriate?

*was a convincing connection made between data and conclusions?

*was the display board effective in presenting the project?