Judging Criteria

Judging Criteria – Scientific Investigation

Thought and Understanding (15 Marks)

• Exhibit demonstrates clear scientific thought.
• Questions/cause & effect are identified. Prediction stated.
• Experiments are devised & include methods, accuracy, variables, results, and data.
• Appreciation of need for accuracy in observation and measurement.
• Records show analysis and are presented accurately.
• Conclusions drawn and suitable discussion recorded.

Results, Discussion and Conclusions (20 Marks)

• Data are correctly analysed and presented appropriately.
• Results are interpreted and compared to other sources of information.
• Limitations with the protocol design or how it was applied are identified.
• Appropriate conclusion(s) that relate to the aim/hypothesis are made.
• Potential recommendations for future research are identified.

Originality (10 Marks)

• In the selection of a topic or statement.
• Uniqueness of approach.
• Resourcefulness in obtaining, handling and interpreting data.
• Ingenious use of equipment and materials.
• Creative displays or use of illustrative materials.
• Inventive apparatus.
• Insightful conclusions.
• Inspired applications of the principle, process or product.

Thoroughness (10 Marks)

• All reasonable aspects have been investigated.
• Previous work in this area has been investigated.
• Records are suitably detailed.
• Evidence of analysis in depth and sufficient detail.
• Any assistance has been documented.

Significance – Mātauranga/Social/Commercial (15 Marks)

• Why is this topic/issue important to us all, or a group of people?
• It might relate to mātauranga, the Māori view of the world
• Or to how it affects people or human activities.
• Or it might be about how it affects business (farming etc,)

Technical Skills (10 Marks)

• Well designed and constructed.
• Reliability of operation.
• Papatuanuku (living plants and animals) are well catered for.
• The whole is well planned and neatly finished.

Visual Presentation (10 Marks)

• Layout has impact and appeal.
• Text is clear, easy to read and follows a logical progression.
• Graphics, models, diagrams, photos, lettering etc. enhance understanding.

Response to Judges Questions (10 Marks)

Judging Criteria – Information Research

A research exhibit comprises selected information to give a factual account of relevant scientific ideas, concepts or theories, information collection and reporting. Your information research should also look at how your topic relates or works with our world; this could be Mātauranga/Social/Commercial.

The research findings should be in the format of a scientific report that has the following:

Title 

• A clear title.

Purpose 

• What are you trying to find out?

Introduction (10 Marks)

• Introduce why this topic/issue is important, and what you are going to cover.

Sections on Topic Parts/Issues (20 Marks)

• Include the science ideas and how they relate to your topic.
• You might need a few sections to cover everything.
• RECORD YOUR REFERENCES AS YOU GO!
• Number your references and put the number in brackets at the end of an important sentance where you are using the information, e.g (1).
• Years 9-13: YOU MUST MAKE LINKS BETWEEN INFORMATION OR SCIENCE CONCEPTS!
• Years 10-13: The validity of the sources must be evaluated.

Significance – Mātauranga/Social/Commercial (20 Marks)

• Why is this topic/issue important to us all, or a group of people?
• It might relate to mātauranga, the Māori view of the world
• Or to how it affects people or human activities.
• Or it might be about how it affects business (farming etc,)

Conclusion (20 Marks)

• So, what have you found and why does it matter?
• WHAT IS YOUR OPINION or stand on the issue?

Clear Presentation (10 Marks)

References (10 Marks)

• Numbered reference list.
• The reference should have enough detail that someone else could find it.
• If it is something that you have been told, note the person and when you spoke to them.

Response to Judges Questions (10 Marks)

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