Rubric for Science Fair Paper
0 = missing; 1 = poor; 2 = fair; 3 = excellent
TitleDescriptive in the form: (The Effect of ___ on ____)
Table of ContentsHighlights all of the major sections of the paper with
page numbers
IntroductionBackground research is consistent with the topic.
Research includes information that provides a
framework for the study.
Grammar/spelling (must be written in the third person)
1 2
(x1)
3
1 2
(x1)
3
1 2
(x1)
1 2
(x2)
3
1 2
(x1)
3
/3
/3
3
/12
HypothesisHypothesis is related to the background research
Provides an explanation for the hypothesis
1 2
(x1)
1 2
(x1)
3
3
/6
List of materialsEssential materials listed by category with appropriate
units.
1 2
(x1)
3
/3
Identification of variablesIndependent and dependent variables identified.
Explanation of the management of outside variables in
the experimental procedure. (how were other variables
kept constant?)
1 2
(x1)
1 2
(x1)
3
3
/6
ProcedureSteps listed in sequential order including appropriate
measurements and units when necessary. Including any
relevant safety information
Includes multiple trials or demonstrates the importance
of adequate sample size
Grammar/spelling (must be written in third person)
Data-
1 2
(x1)
3
1 2
(x1)
3
1 2
(x1)
3
/9
Displayed in the form of a chart, graph, table, etc.
Well organized, understandable
Properly labeled (Titles for graphs and tables, axes
labeled, correctly scaled)
1 2
(x1)
1 2
(x1)
1 2
(x1)
3
3
3
/9
AnalysisDiscusses trends in data, making reference to key data
points.
Discusses any outliers that may be present in the data
1 2
(x3)
3
1 2
(x1)
3
/12
ConclusionAnswers the question: Was the hypothesis supported?
(making reference to supporting data)
1 2
(x1)
3
Makes a reference to the background information,
connecting this study to former research
1 2
(x1)
3
States limitations of the experiment (potential sources of
error)
1 2
(x1)
3
Suggests improvements to the experiment and future
research ideas
1 2
(x1)
3
Grammar/spelling (must be in third person)
1 2
(x1)
3
/15
BibliographySources listed according to APA or MLA format.
(see website on how to use APA:
http://webster.commnet.edu/apa/
Minimum of five sources provided.
1 2
(x1)
3
1 2
(x1)
3
/6
Deadlines:
Sept. 26/27 : Topic and Sources
Nov. 8th : Hypothesis, Materials, Variables, Procedure
Jan. 2: Results and Introduction
Jan. 8th: Analysis and Conclusion