Paper Session

The Following Set of Rules Applies Exclusively to Entering the IJAS Regional or State Paper Session

If a student decides to enter their project in the Paper Session, write the report following the guidelines given in the section entitled - Writing a Scientific Research Paper for an Investigation.

Below are additional regulations and procedures for the Paper Session:

  • Paper session projects and presentations may involve one or two student(s). All awards will be presented to the student whose name is first on the Abstract. This designated student will then share the award with the other project member equally.
  • The paper should be an accurate presentation of a project done by the student(s) and should explain the experimentation and/or designs that have been made. Experimentation or design is required as explained in the Category section. A paper based solely on library research is not acceptable.
  • Previously presented papers will not be allowed unless they include a significant amount of additional research, experimentation, and refinement. These previously presented papers must be made available to the State Paper Session Chair if requested.
  • A digital copy (pdf) of the complete paper including the Abstract must be submitted to the Regional Paper Session Chair by the date established at the regional level. A copy of the signed Safety Sheet and any required Endorsements must be submitted as well.
  • The student should bring TWO copies of their complete paper including their Abstract to their presentation room on the day of the State Exposition.
  • The presentation may be read, given from notes, or include slides projected on a computer (preferred). Students may use programs such as PowerPoint or Google Slides to create their presentation. The complete presentation may take no longer than 10-12 minutes, with additional time (7 minutes) allowed for questions and answers
  • WiFi may not be available. Make sure there is a copy of the presentation on the laptop/computer being used.
  • Display boards are not permitted; however tables, figures, and so forth may be presented manually, but may not exceed the dimensions of a standard 8.5” X 11” sheet of paper.
  • Further research, conducted after the regional fair, may be presented as a written addendum given to the judges at the time of the oral presentation, but a revised paper may not be submitted at the exposition.
  • State awards for Paper Session will be given at the Awards Assembly on the final day of the State Exposition.