Overview of Submission –

The idea behind a working model submission for the science fair is that the model will represent not just a structure or simple concept, but also a process or function. For example, if you choose the topic Cell Membrane, you should show the structure and demonstrate semi-permeability by having some molecules passing through and others unable to. You are also expected to complete background research that will be included on your poster and discussed in your presentation.

In the end your working model will be evaluated on the following criteria:

  • model design and demonstration
  • poster display
  • oral presentation

Project Display – What should it look like on the day of the fair?[1]

Your poster will include (1) background research and (2) a carefully drawn design diagram showing all structures, parts and functioning aspects of the system. The important parts of the model should be labeled so the diagram may be used as a “key” to understanding the model.

The background research component should be displayed shortly on the display. It should summarize the process you are modeling and describe how the model functions and its applications to the natural or engineered world. Proper citation and reference is a must! References must be included on the project display. Failure to do this will be considered plagiarism; school policies on plagiarism will apply. (MLA or APA format accepted.)

Your project should be displayed in a neat, clear, visible, well-organized manner. Use your creativity to design the display poster, with the following important guidelines:

  • Project displays must be free standing (not attached to walls, ceilings, etc.) and fit on a double-size desk. This means the display surface area must be no larger than 148 cm wide by 52 cm deep (but it may be smaller).
  • If you have an unusual model or display that is larger than this, or require special placement, hanging up, or electricity, please request this in writing on Form 3.
  • Note: Projects requiring electricity should use batteries or other power sources, if possible. If electrical power is needed, you must have prior approval by the Science Coordinator. Please bring your own extension cord.
  • Each project must be accompanied by a poster display that explains the exhibit (see examples on the next page). This display board/backdrop should not exceed 100 cm height x 148cm wide (two ~40cm wings and a ~70 cm back).
  • Lettering should be clear and large enough to be seen from a distance. Charts, graphs, photos and drawings should be labeled.
  • The name and section of all group members and the group’s number (given upon registration) must be clearly displayed.
  • The area in front of your poster display should be used for your constructed model. Do not display anything that could be hazardous; use photos or drawings instead. DO NOT DISPLAY: dangerous chemicals; combustible solids, fluids, or gases; flames; open containers of liquid; live animals; expensive or fragile items; or any hazardous substance.
  • Do not consume food or drink for personal consumption while displaying your project. This can disqualify you from the competition!
  • Students may use their own computer to supplement their project presentation, but at their own risk – these should be removed when participants are not actively presenting their project. ACS assumes no responsibility for personal computers used at this fair.

Project presentation –What do I have to say about my project?

You will talk about your project in two ways. One will be the formal presentation for the team of judges. Expectations for your formal presentation are as follows:

  • ALL members of the group should be present and take part in the presentation during judging. Missing team members will not earn the percentage bonus! (In the event of an emergency, serious illnessor academic conflict, contact your Project Supervisor in advance.)
  • You should prepare an oral presentation of 7 to 10 minutes in length. If your presentation falls outside of this time range you will lose points. We will cut you off if you talk for more than 15 minutes. (See Presentation rubric for details.)
  • In the presentation, you need to summarize your background research, the process you are demonstrating and its wider purpose. Incorporate all the capabilities of your model into your presentation – show it off!! Also discuss the process of construction, your materials, modifications you made, challenges you experienced, or if you would change something if you were to do this project again.
  • The judges will ask you questions about your project. Practice answering questions posed by someone who is not part of the project so that you are prepared and calm.

The other presentation will be the informal presentation of your project to your peers. On the day of the science fair, many students will come to see and admire your hard work. They will have a lot of questions for you, different from those of the judges, about your project and how you carried it out.

You are required to be with your project at all times listed in the Science Fair schedule as “project poster session”.

ACS Science Fair Project Application: Form 1

This proposal is worth 5% of the overall evaluation of your Science Fair project.

Ask one of your current science teachers to act as your project supervisor for this project.

This application is due to your project supervisor by15:30 Tuesday, October 30th, 2012or earlier if your project supervisor is not available on this day. Please consult your project supervisor.

Names of students:Sections: ______

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Model Topic and Process:

______

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Materials:

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Signature of participating students:Signature of project supervisor:

______

______Percentage earned of 5%: ______

______

ACS Science Fair Project Application: Form 2

This proposal is worth 5% of the overall evaluation of your Science Fair project.

This application is due to your project supervisor by15:30 Monday, December 10th,2012 or earlier if your project supervisor is not available on this day. Please consult your project supervisor.

Names of students:Sections: ______

______

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Refined model topic and process:

______

______

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Materials: list specifically everything you will need to carry out this research.

______

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Risk assessment: will you be using any biological, chemical, or physical materials that could be dangerous?/The supervisor may decline your proposal/

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Construction Procedure: Attach an additional page if necessary.

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Signature of participating students:Signature of project supervisor:

______

______Percentage earned of 5%: ______

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ACS Science Fair Project Application: Form 3

This proposal is worth 5% of the overall evaluation of your Science Fair project.

This application is due to your project supervisor by15:30 Tuesday, January 8th, 2013

or earlier if your project supervisor is not available on this day. Please consult your project supervisor.

Names of students:Sections: ______

______

______

Title: ……………………………………………………………………………………..

……………………………………………………………………………………………

Attach the following to Form 3:

1. Refined Construction Procedure and Materials.

2. Preliminary Drawings of Model and Process.

3. Possible references: Attach a list of 3 references you might consult when writing about your project. You should include the web address or bibliography information, and can provide brief notes about the content if you wish.

4. Will you require access to an electrical outlet for display purposes? (circle one): YES / NO

5. Do you have any other display needs? (e.g, access to laboratory, water, etc.)

______

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Signature of participating students:Signature of project supervisor:

______

Percentage earned of 5%: ______

NOTE TO SUPERVISOR:

______Remove attached pages; add up the total percentage

earned from Forms1 to 3below; submit to project coordinator

______NAME: …………………………….

TOTAL PERCENTAGE: ______/ out of 15%

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PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER

ACS Science Fair 2012Project #: _____Points: ______of 25 (grades 8-12)

Judging Rubric for Model

Score
Criteria / 5 / 3 / 1
Concept or process being demonstrated / Model effectively communicates a concept and/or process (not just a structure).
Concepts are complex (given students’ grade level) and have “real world” relevance.
Demonstrates more than one process or function. / One of the previous is missing or is inadequate. / Two or more of the previous are missing or inadequate.
Model Construction and Visual Appeal / Shows careful and neat construction; materials are appropriate and sturdy.
Choice of materials and construction technique show significant forethought.
Incorporates moveable parts that directly aid in demonstration of concept/process. / Materials may not be appropriate or very durable.
Workmanship is not of high quality. Some aspects of the model look “hurried”.
Moveable parts are limited or are erroneous in their demonstration.
Materials are inappropriate and flimsy.
Workmanship is lackluster. Overall effect is hurried. / Shoddy workmanship. No care is exhibited in the model.
No moveable parts.
Creativity
Creativity continued / An original project topic and/or a novel approach.
Materials are used in a creative and imaginative manner.
Shows resourcefulness, design creativity and unique use of equipment and construction of project. / Materials are used in a more obvious manner.
Resourcefulness and design creativity are somewhat evident.
Topic is common and/or topic is not communicated in a novel way.
Choice and use of materials are expected.
Resourcefulness and design creativity are somewhat evident. / No attempts are made in creative or unusual thought.
Design is simple and expected.
Poster / All expected components are present and clear[2]
Text is concise and free of grammar and spelling errors.
References are clearly displayed in proper MLA format.
Display meets size requirements[3]
If appropriate, technical drawings are included and are neatly drawn. / Two of the components on the left are inadequate. / Four of the components on the left are inadequate.
Presentation / Student demonstrates a very strong knowledge of subject
Presentation is well organized, delivered within the allotted 7 minutes, and includes all necessary information.
Students don’t stumble and use appropriate speed and volume.
Students maintain good eye contact and good posture. / One of the previous is inadequate. / Two of the previous are inadequate.

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PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER

[1]Adaptations have been made from “science-o-rama!: Great Minds at Work, Information Guide, Grades K-5, Tuesday, February 1st, 2005, Los Alamitos Cafeteria”.

[2] Including: background research, citations in MLA format, a diagram of the model with parts labeled, charts or graphs (if applicable), group members names and sections

[3] No larger than 100 cm high, 148 cm wide, 52 cm deep