Professional Documents
Culture Documents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Categories…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….12
MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS
1. Data file / research file will replace the research book (exercise book).
2. Data analyzed in chapter 4 should ONLY be generated from a definite procedure in chapter 3
3. Projects MUST have an exhibit/ prototype/ innovation
4. Objectives must tally with methodology
Compiled by:
1. National Executive committee
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KSEF PROJECT WRITE UP
CHAPTER ITEM/TOPIC DETAILS
/ PAGES
I COVER PAGE Should include:
Forum and Edition
Category
Title
Presenters
School, District, Region
Venue
II DECLARATION This shows that the student owns the project. Should be signed by the
student and write admission number and class, the supervisor/ patron, the
school principal and signed.
III PLAGIARISM
IV ABSTRACT Summary of the project and include;
Purpose of the project / Experiment
Methods used (Summary of procedures)
Observations / Data / Results
Conclusions
V ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
VI TABLE OF CONTENTS
VII TABLE OF DIAGRAMS
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION Should be in continuous prose and include:
Background information
Statement of the problem / originality
Objectives / hypothesis
Relevance / Significance
Limitations
Assumptions / Precautions
CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW Should include:
Past work presented on the same
Relevant research done and gaps still existing
Scientific concepts / principles employed
Importance / Usefulness of the research
CHAPTER 3 METHODOLOGY Includes:
Apparatus (should be quoted quantitatively and qualitatively)
Procedure ( Should be complete and step-wise)
Observations (obtained from a procedure)
Data( collected from several procedures/experiments
CHAPTER 4 DATA ANALYSIS AND Data presentation include the use of bar graphs, pie charts etc
INTERPRETATION Data analysis and interpretation should be in relation to objectives
CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSSION AND Acknowledge limitations but recommend further research where
RECOMMENDATION applicable
REFERENCES References quoted using APA system
1. Books
2. Journals and newspapers
3. Internet
APPENDIX Other relevant information that is not necessarily used for explanations
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KENYA SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING FAIR
GUIDELINES ON WRITING A PROJECT REPORT
PAGE 1: COVER PAGE
The cover page should contain the following:
(a) EDITION AND FORUM
E.g. The 57TH Kenya National Secondary Students’ Science and Engineering Fair
(b) CATEGORY
E.g. Physics
(c) TITLE
E.g. Solar Iron Box
(d) PRESENTERS
E.g. 1. Aaditya Dahiya
2. Azan Dhanji
(f) SCHOOL
E.g. Amani Academy
(g) COUNTY or DISTRICT
E.g. Nyanza/Kisumu
(h) VENUE
E.g. Pamoja Boys’ High School
(i) YEAR
E.g. 2019
REGION/COUNTY/ SUB-COUNTY/ZONE________________________________________
KSEF places specific emphasis on integrity and ethical behaviour with regard to the
preparation of all written work to be submitted for Science fairs as per its rules and
regulations.
Although science personnel will provide you with information regarding reference
techniques as well as ways to avoid plagiarism, you also have a responsibility to fulfill in
this regard. You are guilty of plagiarism when you extract information from a book, article
or web page without acknowledging the source and pretend that it is your own work. In
truth, you are stealing someone else’s property. This doesn’t only apply to cases where you
quote verbatim, but also when you present someone else’s work in a somewhat amended
format (paraphrase), or even when you use someone else’s deliberation without the
necessary acknowledgement. You are not allowed to use another student’s previous work.
You are furthermore not allowed to let anyone copy or use your work with the intention of
presenting it as his/her own.
Students who are guilty of plagiarism will be disqualified. In addition, the matter will
be referred to SRC for a decision to be made.
Declaration
1. I understand what plagiarism entails and am aware of the KSEF’s policy in this regard.
2. I declare that this project is my own, original work. Where someone else’s work
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was used (whether from a printed source, the internet or any other source) due
acknowledgement was given and reference was made according to KSEF
requirements.
3. I did not make use of another student’s previous work and submitted it as my own.
4. I did not allow and will not allow anyone to copy my work with the intention of
presenting it as his or her own work.
It is a brief paragraph or two, done in about 250 words. An abstract is a useful summary that
provides justification or reason for the research. It allows the reader to decide whether the
project write-up is worth reading or not.
The abstract should include the following items:
i) Purpose of the project
ii) Method used in data collection
iii) Observation/Data/Results
iv) Conclusion
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PAGE (vi): TABLE OF CONTENT
Includes a list of heading items and pages where they are found.
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CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY (A different page).
Includes:
●Apparatus used
● Procedure/Setup
Variables
●Observation
●Data
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E-mails etc.
Showing what was done and when, where and how observations, circumstances, results
were arrived at, etc.
g) CITING AN INTERVIEW
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Once you’re finished with your citations, we can also help you with creating an APA title page.
Important Note on Personal Interviews:
A personal interview should NOT be included in a reference list in APA. They are not considered
recoverable data (they cannot be found by a researcher). You should reference personal interviews
as in-text citations instead.
Example: (J. Doe, personal communication, December 12, 2004)
That being said, there is a general structure if you want to cite a personal interview as part of your APA
works cited list:
Author, A. (Year, Month Date).Interview type.
APA format example:
Marino, B. (2014, October 18). Personal Interview.
For more information on how to cite in APA, check out the APA Style Guide.
i) CITING A PHOTOGRAPH
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CATEGORIES
S/No Category Details
1 Mathematical Science Algebra, Analysis, Applied mathematics, Geometry, Probability and
Statistics, Other
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9 Food technology, Development of food products, Design of processes, Food engineering,
textiles & Home Food microbiology, Food packing, Food preservation, Food safety, diet,
Judges should be trained early and given copies of abstracts/and or write ups.
For session two (part B and C) the presenters will be given an opportunity to introduce their
project
The presentation will be as follows:
(A) Presenters introduction and summary ( maximum of 5 minutes)
(i) Basics- Students state their names, title of the project, category, level and even edition.
(ii) Statement of the problem and objectives
(iii) Workability - Apparatus
-Procedure
- Variables
-Data and Conclusion
(B) Oral interaction / interview (guided by judges for a maximum of 5minutes).
2. TALLING OF RESULTS
This should be done by a secretariat headed by the chief judge. The tallying of results should be
done using spread sheets (IT). Disparities among judges should be checked in future and at all
levels.
3. SRC’s
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It was agreed that SRC will be formed at all levels and the roles will include:
Judging process and eligibility
Precautions
Patentable projects
Review and review all projects
Handle complaints which are raised by writing
4. DATA FILE/ RESEARCH FILE
Research book to be raw draft which can be handwritten, photos, cuttings, photographs,
letters of requisitions reflecting the actual process of developing of the project.
The main features will include date, title of activity, results/ progress, signature of supervisor
and venue
5. FONTS
Write up- font 12, double space, times roman and no distractions
Display board – minimum font 16, Colour and animation allowed
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However, in relation to the innovation, originality refers to the approach or design. If its new, then it’s
very original but if modified the extend of modification is a measure or originality creativity on the other
hand is a measure of how the choice and use of materials has been done
b) CRITICAL CHAPTER (Chapter two of the write up- Literature review)
Research on the area of focus (literature review) should inform the student on:
Research that has been done before
the existing gaps (what has not been done) and give a clear strategy on the approach to fill
the gap(s)
Scientific concepts and principles applied.
c) MAJOR DOCUMENTS
The data file (not an exercise book).
This is the first evidence that research was actually done and should include work plans, consultations,
experiments, photos of actual experimentation. The activities should span a period of time.
Write up/ project report
A quality write up should reflect the following:
Clear statement of problem and objectives in chapter one written in measurable terms
Clear identification of gaps ( significance) in chapter two
The methodology is very systematic and workable
Apparatus and requirements (reagents) are quoted quantitatively and
qualitatively
Procedure should be complete, logical and workable
Observations made should be based on a procedure
Data generated is from several experiments or examples
Display Boards
Dimensions of the display boards 2018 was agreed to be side flabs 40cm, middle flab 80cm and a
height of 1m.
Display board should include variables, analysis of results, discussion of results and
acknowledgement.
Order display boards
The following are the details of the display board:
1ST Flab
Abstract
statement of the problem
objectives
background information
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2nd Flab
title
methodology
o apparatus
o procedure
o variables
data/ results
analysis of results
discussion of results
3rd flab
conclusion – should access attainment of objectives
recommendation – quality recommendation should provide an opportunity for
further research
acknowledgement
MARKING SCHEME
THE KENYA SCIENCE AND ENGINERING FAIR (KSEF)-SCORE SHEET (SESSION ONE)
Name of learner(s):1…………………………………………
Judge’s Name & Signature
2………………………………………….
(Level of performance: 0=Not done, not present, 0.5=Poor, very weak, 1.0=Satisfactory, 1.5=Good, 2.0=Extensive,
well done)
N Criteria ( more extensive in report than on the poster / charts) Maximum Score
O Score
1 Write up neatly and logically organized 2
W rite with clearly labeled sections eg. Abstract, and plagiarism pledge etc
2 Evidence of background research in write up (max 1mk) 2
Background information and knowledge, summarized in write up with articles in
appendix
Introduction in write up (max 1mk)
Including focus question / problem statement and supporting evidence
3 Written language in write up and on poster 2
Legible, correct fonts, scientific, suitable headings, no spelling mistakes
4 Aim / hypothesis/ objectives of project reflected in write up and on poster 2
5 Methods (and materials) used or technologies used in write up and on poster 2
Presented in logical order , correct expression, more extensive in report than on
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poster
6 Variables identified in write up and on poster 2
Dependent and independent variable
7 Results in write up and on posters 2
Full observations, presented in a tabular form and in graphs in write up. Summary
in graph or diagram form on poster. The results should be scientifically and
mathematically suitable and correct.
8 Analysis of results in write up and on poster 2
Report/findings/graphs explained in words, more extensive in write up than on
poster
9 Discussion of results in write up and on poster 2
Pattern and trends are noted and explained, anomalies/unusual results are
discussed , limitations noted and clarified
10 Future possibilities of research in write up / recommendations 2
Future extensions and possibilities are identified
11 Conclusions are reflected in write up and on posters 2
They are valid, based on findings and linked to objectives.
12 Reference in write up 2
Reference of books, magazines and internet addresses given in the correct format
13 Acknowledgements in write up and on poster 2
It is important to find out depth of audit assistance received and how this
assistance has been used
14 Display board – summaries project and is neatly organized 2
This must include correct size of the board and logical flow of presentation
15 Project data file 2
Research plan/Rough work/original data
sheets/plans/diagrams/photos/questionnaire/previous models/emails/etc. Showing what was
done and when, where and how observations, circumstances ,results ets
30
TOTAL
THE KENYA SCIENCE AND ENGINERING FAIR (KSEF)-SCORE SHEET (SESSION TWO)
2………………………………………….
Category ……………………………………..................................................................................................
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S/NO Criteria Maximum Score
Score
1 Capture of interest 1
The learners presentation is exciting and stimulating
2 Enthusiasm / effort 1
A worthwhile effort was made to explain, lots of enthusiasm
3 Voice / tone 1
Totally audible, varying intonation
4 Self-confidence 1
Ease of presentation
5 Scientific Language 1
Use of appropriate language and vocabulary
6 Response to questions 2
Carefully listens to questions, responds clearly and intelligently
7 Presentation of project 2
Can present the project in a logical, well organized way
(without reciting/ reading directly)
8 Limitations / weaknesses and gaps 2
The learner is fully aware of limitations and can explain reasons for gaps
9 Possible suggestions or expanding project / recommendation 2
The learner is fully aware of possibilities for expanding the project
10 Authenticity 2
The learner takes complete ownership of the project and integrates assistance received in
their answers to questions. Can demonstrate all of the methods / techniques used. It is
important to find out the amount of assistance received and how this assistance has been
used ask questions
15
TOTAL
(Level of performance for No’s 1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 9(I & ii), 10, 12 and 13: 0=Not done, 0.5=Poor, 1.0
=Satisfactory, 1.5 = Good and 2.0 = Extensive, well done)
(Level of performance for 3,4,6,9 (iii) and 11: 0=Not done/copycats, 1.0=satisfactory, 2.0 =Good,
3.0 = Excellent).
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Apparatus / requirements 2
Procedure / Method 2
Correct illustrations 3
10 Linkage to emerging issues: Linking of the innovation with emerging 2
issues or adds value to existing body of knowledge
11 Originality: Is the problem original or does the approach to the 3
problem show originality, Does the construction
or design of equipment / project show originality
12 Creativity: Have materials / equipment been used in an ingenious 2
way, To what extent does the project / exhibit represent
the student’s own effort/skill
13 Skill: Was the workmanship of the display skillful? 2
Workmanship is neat, well done. Project requires
minimum maintenance
TOTALS 35 …………….
Strengths………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Recommendations……………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
3. Date File
1. Write – Up
0 Mark –if not available or not properly declared in page (ii) and Page (iii)
1 Mark-For proper declaration and plagiarism in page (ii) and page (iii)
1 Mark if sections are Well labelled right from the cover page all the way upto chapter
(v)
2. Evidence of background Research
Look at data file –shows data collected from various experiments.
Chapter 3 and Chapter 4 of the write up
Middle flap of the display under results. Give 0
mks if the results or data is not generated from procedure/non scientific.
Score 0.5 or 1 or 1.5 or 2 marks depending on how extensive it is.
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3. Written language in write-up and on posters
2 marks are split, 1 mark for same aspect in the write-up and 1 mark for the same on
posters
Check on correct use of scientific principles within the subject area to enhance the project
output.
Check correct headings in the write-up and on display board.
Check for spelling mistakes/ unbalanced equations/ misplaced concepts
Penalise accordingly depending on the degree of errors upto maximum of 1 mark for the
same aspect in the write-up and display board.( 0 or 0.5 or 1 or 1.5 or 2)
4. Objectives – split 1 mark in the write up and 1 mark for posters
give 0 mks if objectives are not SMART. 1 Mark for SMART objectives on posters and 1 Mark
for SMART objectives in chapter 1 of the write –up for a total of 2 marks.( 0 or 1 or 2)
5. Methods and materials used in the write -up and on posters
Materials – the list of materials must be complete and expressed quantitatively and
qualitatively.
Methods must be complete, logical/systematic and workable.
Penalize fully for any omission
1 mark for same aspect in the write-up (chapter 3) and 1 mark on posters (middle flap)
under apparatus/requirement and procedure.( 0 or 1 or2)
6. Variables identified in the write-up and on posters.
0 Marks for merely listing variables
1 Mark for correct demonstration of effect of change of variables in the write up ( chapter
3 and chapter 4) and 1 mark for doing the same on posters (middle flap – after procedure.)
(0 or 1 or 2)
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1 mark – for correct suggestions made to overcome limitation or improve performance of the
project- check chapter 5 of the write – up and 1 mark for the same aspect in the last flap of the
posters (conclusion)( 0 or 1 or 2)
11. Conclusions as reflected in write-up and on posters.
0 mark not referring to objections and data to chapter 4
1 mark for conclusion using data in chapter 4 to demonstrate the extent to which objectives
in chapter 1 of the write-up have been achieve and 1 mark for same quality of conclusion
on the last flap of display board.( 0 or 1 or 2)
12. References
0 mark – if there are no citations in chapter 1 and chapter 2 of the write-up during
introduction and literature review.
2 mark for APA referencing
Penalise fully in case of an error in any of the reference (0 mark) ( 0 or 2)
13. Acknowledgement in write-up and on posters.
0 mark – If there is no acknowledgement or it is not specific. ( ignore acknowledgment of
judges)
1 mark - for correct acknowledgement in page (v) of the write –up and 1 mk for the
same correctly done in the last flap of the display board ( 0 or 1 or 2)
14. Display board.
0 mark - for display with Misplaced poster (s) i.e All posters must be placed in
prescribed places from left to right of the display board
1 mark for being attractive or neat of artistic value ( 0 or 1 or 2)
15. Data file
0 mark -If data is not collected according to the work plan or research plan or if not signed
or information given by individuals is not counter signed or if not handwritten or rough
work or if data is not generated from procedure.
Depending on the extent of research (how detailed and whether each objective has data to
validate it) ( 0 or 0.5 or 1 or 1.5 or 2)
Write – up
Data files
Display board
Exhibit/project itself and the presenters
Part B – looks at communication skills and is to score against one presentation.
Normally very subjective
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1. Capture of interest.
From introduction of the project title, how striking is it? Are judges anxious of knowing more
about the project or how are communication skills being manipulated to sustain audience?
Score accordingly (0 or 0.5 or 1) depending on extent
2. Enthusiasm /Effort
Pace of presentation- moderate pace, keen on moving with the audience.
Maintaining eye contact with audience
Drawing attention of audience to the display and project to make them understand
Score accordingly (0 or 0.5 or 1).
3. Voice/tone
Flat tone/same tone from start up to the end shows the presenter has no areas of emphasis
(0 or 1)
Variation of the tone maintains audience and shows areas/points of emphasis in the
presentation -climaxes /tone variation is critical in communication
Observe and score accordingly (0 or 0.5 or 1).
4. Self Confidence
Check on mannerism e.g. Avoiding eye contact completely shows lack of confidence –
some presenters literally close their eyes to avoid detractors.
Use of words like - you know or I think or just parroting etc.
Check and score according (0 or 0.5 or 1)
5. Scientific Language
Check on vocabulary level within the subject area of presentation – i.e use of one word to
mean many correctly within the context.
Check out and score accordingly (0 or 1)
6. Response to questions
Testing on patience to listen and courtesy to respond. A person who keeps quiet until a
question is posed has good listening skill hence qualifies for 1 mark
One who is courteous to respond intelligently for example ‘I don’t know’ gets l mk for
responding and loses marks in part C where the judge was seeking clarification to score.(0
or 1 or 2)
7. Presentation of project
Logical flow of ideas right from introduction to conclusion
Presentation can be poor or fair or good (0 or 1 or 2).
8. Limitations/weakness and gaps
Give 2 marks for presenters who verbally outline the correct limitations of the project ( 0
or 2)
9. Possible suggestions/recommendation.
Give 2 marks for presenters who verbally make correct recommendations for
improvement of their projects (0 or 2)
10. Authenticity
Give 2 marks for the presenters who verbally acknowledges specific contributions of
individuals towards their project (0 or 2 )
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PART C - OVERALL ASSESMENT
6. Data
No data / irrelevant data – award 0 mark
Shallow data collected from a procedure – award 1 mark
Sufficient data – award 2 marks
Adequate- sufficient data for each objective 3 marks
7. Variables
Correct manipulation and explanation of the effect of change of variables on the project output 2
mks
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Give 0 mark for mere listing of variables or wrong illustration of the effect of change of variables.(
0 or 2)
8. statement of originality
What inspired him or her or them to come up with a project? Personal encounter/ the issue of
grandmothers etc just give the 2 marks and penalize at 11 if the idea is not original.
9. Logical sequence/ experimental design
Apparatus-complete list with correct specifications (2 mks)
-complete list without proper specifications (1 mk)
-incomplete list (0 mk)
Procedure-when apparatus/ requirements score 0 mks, then procedure also scores 0 mks, because
without all the requirements the procedure cannot be executed.
Procedure MUST be complete (all steps) for 1 mark and, logical or systematic and
workable (1mark)
Correct illustrations- 0mks for no exhibit, 1mark for an exhibit not working, 2 mark for an
exhibit partially working and 3 for an exhibit fully
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