A professional bilingual committee from the domains of science and technology will judge the projects. 
In the following pages, some elements are given to help in the project process:
 

  • Three project types:
    • Experimentation
    • Study (research)
    • Innovation (conception)
  • Summary of Judging Criteria
  • Questions judges may ask

Three project types

You may choose one of three scientific project types.


Experimentation

An investigation undertaken to test a science hypothesis experimentally. At least one independent variable is manipulated; other variables are controlled.

Study (research)

Collection and analysis of data using accepted methodologies from the natural, social, biological or health sciences. Includes studies involving human subjects, field studies, data mining, observation and pattern recognition. It can be a study of cause and effect or theoretical investigation of scientific data.


Innovation (conception)

The development and evaluation of new devices, models, techniques or approaches in fields such as technology, engineering, computer science (hardware and software), natural science or social science.

Definitions and criteria are from Youth Science Canada


Summary of judging criteria

Evaluation form


Scientific Value (45%)

Demonstration of the use of the scientific method, control of variables, analysis of results.


Creativity (25%)

Demonstration of originality, imagination and innovation.

WRITTEN REPORT AND PROJECT LOGBOOK (14%)

Report components (title page, introduction, results, analysis, conclusion, bibliography and references) and project logbook.


Visual display (8%)

Appropriate support, clearness, quality of the written language.

Oral presentation (8%)

Clear, logical, enthusiastic presentation; response to questions


Questions judges may ask
 

  • Why did you decide on this topic?
  • What is the purpose of your project?
  • What was your hypothesis?
  • What variable did you change?
  • How many trials did you do?
  • What response did you measure or observe?
  • QWhat were the constants during your experiment?
  • What procedures did you follow?
  • In your experiment what was your control? What sample did you use to compare to the others?
  • What results did you find?
  • What conclusions did you draw?
  • How did your results relate to your original hypothesis?
  • If you had a mentor, in what way did your mentor assist you?
  • In doing your library research, what related research did you find that was helpful to you in conducting your project?
  • What would you do differently if you were to do the project again?
  • What might you do in the future to continue your project?

Presenting sponsor