| Criteria | Exemplary | Proficient | Developing | Beginning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hypothesis & Purpose | States a testable, specific hypothesis with clear scientific reasoning. | States a testable hypothesis connected to the lab purpose. | Hypothesis is vague or not clearly testable. | No hypothesis or purpose statement provided. |
| Procedure & Methods | Procedure is detailed enough for exact replication with all variables identified. | Procedure is clear with most key steps and variables included. | Procedure is incomplete or missing key steps. | No procedure documented or steps are incomprehensible. |
| Data Collection & Analysis | Data is thorough, well-organized in tables/graphs, with insightful statistical analysis. | Data is organized with appropriate graphs and basic analysis. | Data collection is incomplete; graphs or analysis are missing. | No data collected or data is unorganized and unanalyzed. |
| Conclusion & Reflection | Conclusion fully addresses hypothesis with error analysis and real-world connections. | Conclusion addresses hypothesis with some error discussion. | Conclusion is present but does not fully connect to hypothesis. | No conclusion or it contradicts the evidence presented. |
Related Science Templates
Experiment Design Rubric
Assess student-designed experiments for question formulation, variable control, safety planning, and scientific thinking.
Scientific Poster Rubric
Evaluate scientific research posters on visual layout, content accuracy, data presentation, and oral explanation.
Nature Observation Rubric (K-2)
Assess early elementary nature observation journals for detail, drawing accuracy, scientific vocabulary, and curiosity.