What the judges look for in a science project

tests. Be ambitious and determined but also realistic.  You may have to go back and redesign your experimental plan.  Record everything—what worked, what didn’t work, anything you were not expecting, changes you might make if you had time to repeat the investigation again  Take photographs as you go along. These can be used to record progress and results. They also look good in your report book and on your display board.  When carrying out your research write down all your sources; these should be listed in the references section of your report book.  Record all data not just e.g. the average. You want to show that you did the experiment a number of times.  Be safe. Do not carry out any experiments that might be dangerous or use chemicals that might be harmful.

Always check with your teacher first.

Entry forms for SciFest@College 2015 are now downloadable from the website www.scifest.ie. Closing date for receipt of entries is 13 March (SciFest@NorthWest in Derry only: 1 May). Please note that teachers, principals and parents have to sign the entry forms.

What the judges look for in a science fair project

Section 1: Investigation

Introduction: Clear statement of problem/objective/hypothesis Literature Review: Reasons for topic selection with outline of current knowledge and background

research

Preparation and Planning: Well-planned, replicable, adequate controls, fair test, appropriate variables, list of resources

Procedure: Experimental procedure in detail, safety issues Clear accurate labelled diagrams, data tables and graphs

Calculations and Data Analysis: Accurate calculations shown Discussion of relationship between variables Analysis of trends/patterns in data – conclusions

Creativity and Innovation: Originality of work, use of unique methods, designs or materials, potential for

development Section 2: Presentation skills, visual display and report book

Presentation Skills: Speaks clearly, demonstrates enthusiasm, confidently discusses content & answers questions, work as a team (group projects)

Visual display: Visually appealing, appropriate level of content, well-organised, good spelling & grammar

Report book: Well-documented, organised entries, clear illustrations, adequate & accurate references