Judging Criteria

The judges of the HLN Virtual Science Fair will use a rubric consisting of the following factors when judging all entries:

Scientific Thought

The exhibit should show an understanding and use of the scientific method.

• Does the project follow the scientific method?
• Is the problem clearly stated?
• Are the procedures appropriate and organized?
• Is the information collected accurate and complete?
• Does the project show careful observations and use of a control element along with variables?
• Have the problems been thought through and data organized well?
• Have comparisons been made by showing likenesses and differences?
• Was a planned system followed?
• Does the exhibit show an improved method or better understanding of scientific facts?

Creative Ability

The exhibit should show a practical use of materials and equipment.

• How unique or original is the project idea?
• Is it significant or unusual for a child this age?
• Does the exhibit show a use of own ideas in planning and developing?
• Does the exhibit show different and better ways of telling people about an idea?

Understanding & Thoroughness

The exhibit should tell a comprehensible but concise story about the project.

• Does it explain what was learned about the topic?
• Does the project represent real study and effort?
• Does the project show a familiarity with the topic?

Clarity

The exhibit should be presented in a way that is clearly understandable to the viewer.

• Does the exhibit clearly communicate the problem, the solution, and the conclusion?
• Are the problems, procedures, data, and conclusions presented clearly and in a logical order?
• Does the student clearly and accurately articulate in writing what was accomplished?
• Is the objective of the project likely to be understood by one not trained in the subject area?

Dramatic Value

The exhibit should be attractive and capture the attention of visitors.

• Is the display visually appealing?
• Is the proper emphasis given to important ideas?
• Are all the components of the project done well?
• Are the labels large and the descriptions neatly presented?
• Is there a progression that leads the visitor through the exhibit?
• Is the exhibit more attractive than others in the same field without being garish?

Technical Skill

The exhibit should demonstrate the skill possessed by the participant.

• Was the majority of the work done by the student?
• Has the student acknowledged help received from others?
• Does the written material show attention to grammar and spelling?
• Is the project physically sound and durably constructed?
• Does the project reflect the student's abilities or does it indicate excessive outside help?