How Exhibits Are Judged
Rules for the judging of exhibits vary, but most science fairs stick fairly closely to the criteria and point values used by the National Science Fair-International, which are:
I. Creative Ability Total 30 points
How much of the work appears to show originality of approach or handling? Judge that which appears to you to be original regardless of the expense of purchased or borrowed equipment. Give weight to ingenious uses of materials, if present. Consider collections creative if they seem to serve a purpose.
II. Scientific Thought Total 30 points
Does the exhibit disclose organized procedures? Is there a planned system, classification, accurate observation, or controlled experiment? Does exhibit show a verification of laws, or a cause and effect, or present by models or other methods a better understanding of scientific facts or theories? Give weight to probable amount of real study and effort which is represented in the exhibit. Guard against discounting for what might have been added, included, or improved.
III. Thoroughness Total 10 points
Score here for how completely the story is told. It is not essential that step-by-step elucidation of construction details be given in working models.
IV. Skill Total 10 points
Is the workmanship good? Under normal working conditions, is the exhibit likely to demand frequent repairs? In collections, how skilled is the handling, preparation, mounting or other treatment?
V. Clarity Total 10 points
In your opinion, will the average person understand what is being displayed? Are guide marks, labels, and descriptions spelled correctly, and neatly yet briefly presented? Is there sensible progression of the attention of the spectator across or through the exhibit?
VI. Dramatic Value Total 10 points
Is this exhibit more attractive than others in the same field? Do not be influenced by “cute” things, lights, buttons, switches, cranks, or other gadgets which contribute nothing to the exhibit.
Such rules leave much to the individual discretion of the judges, particularly regarding the distinction between the science project itself and the exhibit. Be sure to study your local rules and judging criteria carefully. Since usually 60 points pertain to creativity and sound scientific thought, a large part of your score depends on the original excellence of your science project. The remaining 40 points apply to the manner in which you develop your exhibit of that project.
AEC Special Award competition is judged by a “blue-ribbon” panel composed of people who head research and development programs at AEC offices and laboratories throughout the United States. At the 14th NSFI at Albuquerque, these judges spent the morning identifying eligible exhibits, “huddled” late in the afternoon to select semifinal choices, and then in the evening talked with each semifinalist before making the final choice of winners and alternates.
Judges study criteria and point values before evaluating exhibits. Although your exhibit should speak for itself, at many fairs the judges chat with each exhibitor to determine how well he understands his project area. Be prepared to present details concisely and clearly, but avoid lengthy explanations unless asked.