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| Illinois Junior Science
and Humanities Symposium
Tips from the Reviewers
Are you interested in submitting a paper to the Illinois JSHS? Are you motivated and a self starter? Are you willing to work? Are you persistent? Can you find someone willing to help you, if needed? Here are some tips from paper reviewers to help you have a successful submission. If after you review these tips you have questions or need additional clarification, just email us. We will be happy to help you.
| 1. |
Selection of Topic
- What is your idea?
- Is it original? Of value?
- Consult with a knowledgeable person
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| 2. |
First Impressions
- Grammar/proofreading
- JSHS/Science Fair format
- Tone and style
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| 3. |
Introduction
- Relevant background information
- Rationale for study
- Hypothesis or problem statement
- Transition to Materials/Methods
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| 4. |
Materials & Methods
- Not a list/cookbook recipe
- Clear, but not excessive
- Reproducible
- Why?
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| 5. |
Apparatus
- Standard? Cite the reference.
- Original? Include a labeled diagram, schematic, or digital photo
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| 6. |
Heart of the Paper
- Results
- Discussion/Conclusions
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| 7. |
Figures and Tables
- Reader can "eyeball" results
- Label properly; report the units
- Check for accuracy
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| 8. |
References
- What about the internet?
- Include a variety of sources
- Matching references and citations
- Style guide for proper formatting
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| 9. |
Abstract
- Summary of all elements of study
- Rationale, methodology, and results
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| 10. |
Meet the Deadlines
- Pace your work
- Allow time for proofreading
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| 11. |
Prepare for Your Presentation
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