FRHS Scientific Paper Grading Rubric

(Refer to the “FRHS Guide to Writing Scientific Papers” document for more detail on each rubric item)
Title Yes No Pts
2 1. The title is underlined and a concise summary of the scientific paper’s
main focus

Abstract Yes No Pts

1 2. Introductory sentence correctly states the main area of study
1 3. A sentence restating the correct specific research question is
addressed
1 4. Includes main techniques or procedures actually used (one sentence)
3 5. Parameters of experiment or research are identified (when and where
was it conducted. If applicable; your sample size; the specific species,
proteins, genes, etc., studied)
3 6. Actual results of activity/experiment are described properly (2-3
sentences)
2 7. Main conclusion is described accurately, does not conflict with results
and done in one sentence
1 8. Adheres to professional writing standards, with no more than 1 error

Introduction Yes No Pts

1 9. Correctly identifies the specific research question
2 10. Explains correctly WHY this question is being studied (the purpose of
this scientific research)
2 11. Correctly discusses how this lab relates to content covered in class. (if
applicable, identifies assumptions and/or models)
4 12. References 2-5 related and reliable studies that offer information on the
subject
1 13. These references include accurate in-text citations
1 14. If applicable, hypothesis correctly addresses research question
1 15. An appropriate rationale for hypothesis is given
3 16. Experimental plan is summarized correctly and as actually done (2-3
sentences)
2 17. Independent and dependent variable are accurately identified
1 18. Adheres to professional writing standards, with no more than 2 errors

Materials and Method Yes No Pts

1 19. Identifies equipment actually used (needed)
2 20. Includes an accurate diagram and/or provides an accurate description
that shows experimental setup
3 21. Procedure is step by step and exactly repeatable
1 22. Procedure correctly identifies how the independent variable is
manipulated
2 23. Procedure identifies appropriate variables that are held constant
1 24. Procedure allows for the collection of sufficient and relevant data.
1 25. Adheres to professional writing standards, with no more than 1 error
Results Yes No Pts
2 26. Includes 1-2 sentence applicable introductory statement
3 27. Data tables include appropriate titles, column headings, and units
1 28. Figure caption for data table includes correct trend AND meaning
4 29. Graphs include correct title, axes labels, units, and where applicable;
trend lines and r2 values
2 30. Figure caption(s) for graph(s) includes correct trend AND meaning
2 31. Calculations include proper introductory statement of which formula is
used and WHY that formula was used
1 32. A correct sample calculation for each formula used is shown
1 33. Includes a short summary correctly unifying key data, changes, or
relationships shown by the data
1 34. Adheres to professional writing standards, with no more than 1 error

Discussion Yes No Pts

1 35. Restates research question AND hypothesis correctly
1 36. Makes a claim in response to the research question that makes sense
3 37. Accepts or rejects hypothesis appropriately and suggests further study
needed regarding the hypothesis
3 38. Refers to data/evidence from results section to correctly support or
reject the claim
10 39. Uses scientific reasoning properly to explain WHY results turned out
the way they did
2 40. Correctly identifies and analyzes sources of error, both in design and
carrying out of experiment (NOT human error)
2 41. Suggests realistic and appropriate ways to improve the procedure so
as to reduce sources of error
1 42. The writer clearly communicates an understanding of the topic involved
1 43. Adheres to professional writing standards, with no more than 2 errors

Conclusion Yes No Pts

10 44. Provides a short and appropriate summary of the main conclusions that
can be drawn from the experiment
2 45. Poses further questions of study related to the topic of the experiment
1 46. States and relates at least one current, real world application
associated with the purpose of the experiment
1 47. Adheres to professional writing standards, with no more than 2 errors

Citations Yes No Pts

1 48. In text citations are in proper APA format
1 49. Works cited/reference list is included and in proper APA format