Marking criteria for the 2024 edition of the fair
Advertising poster
1. Creativity, Originality, Visual Impact (20%):
– Creative in design, layout, and overall presentation (i.e. use of colours, typography, etc…)
– Eye-catching design that grabs the viewer’s attention.
– Effective use of visual elements such as images, illustrations, and graphics.
2. Message Clarity /Information about the fair; dates, place, platinum sponsor’s name (20%):
– The poster should clearly convey the intended message or purpose.
– The text should be concise, easy to read, and relevant to the advertised product or event.
– The message should be communicated effectively through both visuals and text.
3. Relevance to topic (50%):
– The poster should be tailored to Taranaki and the intended audience.
– Demonstrates an understanding of the Taranaki technology innovation
– Appeals to the Taranaki audience through appropriate language, imagery, and tone.
4. Overall Presentation (10%):
– Neatness and professionalism in the poster’s execution.
– Attention to detail in terms of alignment, spacing, and overall aesthetics.
– Effective use of space and composition to create a visually pleasing poster.
Scientific photography
1. Composition and Framing (5%):
– Is the subject of the photograph clearly and prominently displayed?
– Does the composition effectively convey the scientific concept or phenomenon being depicted?
– Is the framing well-balanced and visually appealing?
2. Clarity and Focus (5%):
– Is the photograph sharp and in focus?
– Are the details of the subject clearly visible?
– Is there any distortion or blurriness that affects the overall quality of the image?
3. Lighting and Exposure (5%):
– Is the lighting appropriate for the subject and does it enhance the visual impact of the photograph?
– Are the highlights and shadows well-balanced, avoiding overexposure or underexposure?
– Does the lighting effectively highlight the scientific aspects of the subject?
4. Presentation (5%):
– Is the photograph presented in a professional and visually appealing manner?
– Is the accompanying description or caption clear, concise, and informative?
– Does the presentation enhance the overall understanding and appreciation of the photograph?
5. Creativity, Originality and Overall impact (30%):
– Does the photograph demonstrate a unique and innovative approach to capturing the scientific concept?
– Does the photograph have a strong visual impact and evoke an emotional or intellectual response?
– Does the image engage the viewer and effectively convey the scientific message?
6. Scientific Relevance and Description (50%):
– Does the photograph effectively communicate a scientific concept, process, or phenomenon?
– Does the image provide a clear connection to the scientific field or topic being explored?
– Does the description demonstrate an understanding of the scientific principles involved?
Scientific Observational drawings
1. Accuracy and Detail (60%):
– The drawing should accurately represent the subject being observed.
– Details such as shape, size, texture, and proportions should be clearly depicted.
– The drawing should demonstrate a keen eye for observation and attention to detail.
- Composition and Layout (10%):
– The drawing should be well-composed and visually appealing.
– The subject should be positioned appropriately within the frame, considering the rule of thirds or other compositional techniques.
– The use of negative space and overall balance should be evident.
3. Use of Line and Contour (20%):
– The drawing should exhibit confident and controlled lines.
– The use of contour lines should effectively define the subject’s shape and form.
– Line weight and variation should be used purposefully to create emphasis and interest.
– The drawing should demonstrate an understanding of light and shadow.
– Shading techniques: hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, should be used effectively to create depth and volume.
– The use of different tones should accurately represent the subject’s three-dimensional form.
4. Overall Presentation (10%):
– The drawing should be neatly presented, free from smudges or eraser marks.
– The use of appropriate materials, such as high-quality paper and drawing tools, should be evident.
– The drawing should be labelled with the name of the artist, the date, the scale and the subject being observed (common name, scientific name and Māori name)
Scientific journalism/essays
1. Introduction and Background (10%):
– Clear and concise introduction that provides context and background information.
– Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the topic and its relevance to science and technology.
– Clearly states the research question or objective of the essay, as well as your position on the topic (thesis statement)
2. Research and Methodology (25%):
– Demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the research process and methodology used.
– Provides a detailed description of the experimental design, data collection, and analysis methods.
– Shows evidence of critical thinking and scientific reasoning in the selection and execution of the research.
3. Scientific Content and Accuracy (25%):
– Accurate and up-to-date scientific information and concepts related to the topic.
– Demonstrates a deep understanding of the scientific principles and theories involved.
– Provides appropriate references and citations to support claims and findings.
4. Results and Analysis (15%):
– Presents the results of the research in a clear and organised manner.
– Accurate and thorough analysis of the data collected.
– Demonstrates an understanding of statistical analysis and interpretation of results.
5. Conclusion and Implications (15%):
– Draws logical conclusions based on the research findings.
– Discusses the implications and significance of the results in the context of science and technology.
– Identifies any limitations or areas for further research.
6. Writing Style and Organization (5%):
– Clear and coherent writing style with proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
– Well-structured essay with logical flow and organisation of ideas.
– Effective use of headings, subheadings, and paragraphs to enhance readability.
7. Presentation and Visuals (5%):
– Neat and professional presentation of the essay.
– Effective use of visuals such as graphs, charts, and images to support the content.
– Proper formatting and adherence to any specified guidelines (font, spacing, etc.).