Judging Criteria for Experimental Investigation - Poster and Paper Sessions
Poster Experimental Rubric Paper Experimental Rubric
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The following are criteria for the Illinois Junior Academy of Science judging procedure. Judges who are not agents of the Illinois Junior Academy of Science may use other criteria for selection of their special awards. The decision of the judges is final.
- There are usually three scoring levels for each factor being examined during the judging procedure.
- Student experimenters should strive to achieve the top criteria listed below.
Evidence of Experimental Processing Skills
Science Processing Skills
- Exhibits a thorough understanding and the application of the scientific method. The student has acquired scientific skills.
Understanding Scientific Principles Involved
- Exhibits thorough understanding of the basic scientific principles involved with the project.
Scientific Approach: Overall
- Has a well-defined problem and a clearly stated hypothesis. Uses a logical, orderly method for solving the problem. The problem was solved using scientific principles. The method was appropriate and effective.
Scientific Approach: Variables
- The independent (experimental) and dependent variables have been thoroughly defined. Those significant variables not manipulated have been held constant.
Scientific Approach: Control/Comparison Group
- A control (known standard) was present OR when a control group is not possible or appropriate a comparison was made among trial groups.
Accuracy of Data and Observations
- An adequate sample size and/or sufficient repetitions were performed to gather enough data to reach a reliable conclusion. Data collected is numerical and metric, if applicable. Observations were carefully recorded and accurate.
Data Analysis and Discussion
- The data has been analyzed and its importance has been discussed. Logical inferences were made.
Experimental Error
- Experimental and/or measurement error affecting the conclusion has been considered and discussed. Ways in which error was/could have been avoided may also be addressed.
Validity of Conclusion
- Conclusion is consistent with data and observations and is supported by the data collected.
- Conclusion referred to purpose and hypothesis.
Originality
- Demonstrates a novel approach and/or idea. Exhibits a creative approach to problem-solving.
Scientific Communication - Oral Presentation
Presentation Quality
- Clear presentation; concisely summarizes the project. Information is relevant and pertinent. The student(s) exhibit(s) a thorough understanding of their topic area.
Dynamics
- Speaks fluently with good eye contact; polite, dynamic, and interested in their project.
Answer to Questions
(Paper Session Only)
- Response to questions showed insight and thorough understanding of background material.
Scientific Communication - Display
(Poster Session Only)
Information: Experimental
- Gives complete explanation of the project. Display includes abstract, graphics, charts, and/or pictures on the FRONT of the board only. a packet containing safety sheet and any endorsements should be next to the board.
Artistic Qualities
- Display board is neat, organized, and appealing. No spelling errors are present.
Written Report
The parts of the written report should be evaluated for their merits as further evidence of scientific processing skills.
Abstract
- Abstract present; contains a concise summary of the purpose, procedure, and conclusion in 250 words or fewer. The proper IJAS form was used.
Title Page/Table of Contents
- The title page is clear and concise. The table of contents is complete and includes pagination.
Acknowledgements
- Credit has been given to those who have helped with the project.
Purpose and Hypothesis
- The testable question (purpose) has been identified and a prediction has been made.
Background Research (BR)
- Background research is in-depth and the information is pertinent and supports the experiment. BR is adequately cited in-text using APA format. All referenced materials are included in the References section.
Materials
- All materials are listed and measurements are in metric, if applicable.
Procedure
- The procedure is complete and easily followed; all steps included. Measurements are in metric, if applicable.
Results
- Results (data) are organized in tables or graphs and can be easily read by someone not familiar with the work. Discussion or interpretation of data and effect of error is included.
Conclusion
- A concise evaluation and interpretation of the data and/or results.
Reference List
- Quality, quantity and variety of sources are adequate for the research topic. All sources listed are cited within Background Research.
- Most sources are current.
Technical Aspects
- Good grammar and spelling are evident. The student’s last name is in the upper right-hand corner of all pages after the table of contents. Font size and type are appropriate.
Neat and Orderly
- The full report is neat and follows the Policy and Procedure Manual order as illustrated on the left side of the judging rubric.