Team members: ____________________________ Enquiry question: ____________________________

S C I E N C E F A I R A S S E S S M E N T R U B R I C

Beginning Developing Mastering

Above Standard

Developing Strategy Based On Enquiry Question

Suggest a testable prediction and justify with common sense or previous experience. Strategy only plans for a limited amount of data being collected. Some hazards associated with the procedure are highlighted.

Consider major factors and refer to scientific knowledge to make a testable hypothesis about how the factor will affect the outcome. Techniques and equipment are appropriate for the collection of a good range of data. Significant risks are highlighted and precautions identified.

All relevant factors are considered and then one is selected to test and a quantitative prediction is made about how it will affect the outcomes. The choice of equipment and technique is justified and appropriate to collect data that is precise and valid. A full risk assessment has been conducted.

Recording Data

Record an adequate amount of data, with some errors in units or labeling, and with little checking for repeatability. Data is of variable quality.

Data covers the range, and there is evidence of checking for repeatability. Data is generally of good quality.

Data is a good range with regular repeats and appropriate handling of outliers. Checks or preliminary work are included. The range or number of measurements may have been adapted based on this. Data is generally of high quality.

Analysing Data

Construct a simple chart or graph with some errors in scaling or plotting. Carry out simple calculations eg correct calculation of averages from repeated readings

Correctly select scales and axes and plot data for a graph, including an appropriate line of best fit. Use mathematical comparisons between results to support a conclusion.

Indicate the spread of data through scatter graphs or range bars or give clear keys for displays involving multiple data sets. Use complex processing to reveal patterns in the data eg statistical methods, use of inverse relationships, or calculation of gradient of graphs.

Evaluating Information

Describe the limitations imposed by the techniques and equipment used. Identifies outliers or justifies if there are none. No secondary data has been collected.

Outlines some improvements to apparatus or techniques, or alternative ways to collect the data. Uses the general pattern of results as a basis for assessing accuracy and repeatability. Describe how the secondary data either extends or undermines the conclusion. Secondary data is referenced.

Detailed improvements to apparatus, techniques, or alternative ways of collecting the data are explained. The evidence is considered critically based on repeatability and outliers. Secondary data is compared closely and used as a basis for making an assessment of the level of confidence placed on the primary data.

Research And Presentation

Comment on whether trends or correlations in the data support the prediction or hypothesis, and suggest why by referencing appropriate science. Some relevant scientific terms are used, but spelling, punctuation and grammar are of variable quality. Some aspects of the poster are good but text size, and distribution of diagrams, charts, pictures and textual information may be inappropriate.

Use relevant science knowledge to conclude whether the hypothesis has been supported or to suggest how it should be modified to account for the data more completely. Information is effectively organised with generally sound spelling, punctuation and grammar. Specialist terms are used appropriately. Poster is of good quality with appropriate text size, and distribution of diagrams, charts, pictures, and textual information.

Give a detailed account of what extra data could be collected to increase confidence in the hypothesis. Full and effective use of scientific terminology and very few grammatical errors. Poster is of high quality with appropriate text size, and distribution of diagrams, charts, pictures, and textual information