Brookes Science Project Competition

The category of Ecology and Biodiversity encompasses the study of plant and animal populations, plant and animal communities, and the network of relations among organisms. How do organisms relate to their environment and food sources, at both large and small scales?

Brookes Science Competition seeks solutions to problems related to the movement of food, resources, and energy through living communities; the assessment of the value of the local ecosystems; the effects of populations on ecosystems (e.g. excessive fishing, excessive farming); the destruction of habitat and its effects on the health of living organisms, including humans; genetic pollution and hybridization and their effects on food security and biodiversity; the effects of climate change on biodiversity; the distribution and abundance of organisms and more.

The category of Resources and Energy encompasses the study of energy sources, such as mineral, water, wood, coal, oil, gas, nuclear, wind, sun, and soil sources, including efforts to increase their efficiency in producing energy and to reduce the impact of their use on the environment. How do we use these resources? How can we do it better?

Brookes Science Competition solutions to problems related to the responsible use of non-renewable natural resources; efficient use of non-renewable natural sources (e.g., in energy and goods production); contribution of non-renewable natural sources to global warming; the efficient use of renewable natural sources (e.g., in energy and goods production); soil degradation, erosion, and remediation; efficient use of water resources and other important issues.

The category of Human Ecology encompasses the study of the relationship between humans and their natural, social, and built environments, the effects of environmental changes on human behavior, and the effects of human behavior on the environment. The world of humans is inextricably connected with the environment. How are human interactions changing over time? How are those changes related to the environment?

Brookes Science Competition solutions to problems related to society and its knowledge about sustainability; social changes that affect the environment; social equality regarding food and water supplies; social equality regarding access to education and quality of life; education about the environment and sustainability; the business and economy of sustainability; sustainable engineering and construction; society and energy usage; developing a sustainable low-waste society; social behavior involving recycling, reuse, and waste reduction programs; social views about environmental regulations, policies and programs and more.

Innovation is defined as creating new or different tangible products or processes as a result of a novel idea or a method to make our lives better, healthier, and environmentally friendly.

Brookes Science Competition seeks engineering and design solutions for a specific use, such as new or different tools and equipment used in life, such as kitchens, schools, office space, to make processes faster or more effective (reducing waste, etc), or more user friendly and healthier.

Originality: Does the project demonstrate a unique and innovative approach to the scientific question?

Creative Problem-Solving: How well does the student address challenges and unexpected issues during the project?

Unconventional Thinking: Does the project exhibit creative thinking beyond standard procedures?

Clarity: How well is the project presented, with clear and concise explanations of the research question, methods, and results?

Visual Aids: Are charts, graphs, and other visual aids used effectively to enhance understanding?

Speaking Skills: Does the student communicate confidently and effectively, engaging the audience?

Scientific Knowledge: Does the project show a solid understanding of relevant scientific principles and concepts?

Depth of Analysis: How well does the student analyze and interpret the results in the context of existing scientific knowledge?

Insightful Conclusions: Are the conclusions drawn from the results insightful and supported by evidence?

Practical Implications: Does the project have potential real-world applications or solve a practical problem?

Impact: How significant could the findings be in addressing broader issues or advancing scientific understanding?

Innovation Transferability: Can the concepts or methods be applied in other fields or situations?

Visual Appeal: Is the display visually appealing, well-organized, and easy to navigate?

Logistical Organization: Are materials and equipment well-arranged, and is there a logical flow to the display?

Attention to Detail: Does the presentation demonstrate attention to detail in design, layout, and overall presentation?