Judging

Judging will be completed by:

• Teachers

• Administrators

• Board Members

Judges will be assigned to evaluate certain groups in a randomized fashion using the rubric below.

Standards Assessed Throughout Judging:

NGSS – Next Generation Science Standards (Middle School Engineering Design)

MS-ETS1-1: Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution.

MS-ETS1-2: Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints.

MS-ETS1-3: Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences among several design solutions.

MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process.

NJSLS Computer Science & Design/Engineering Standards (2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards for CS & Design Thinking)

8.1.8.AP.6: Refine solutions to problems by identifying and correcting errors and making changes to algorithms or programs.

8.1.8.DA.2: Compare information from different sources to analyze trends and patterns. (Connected to communicating ideas/data on posters/displays.)

8.2.8.ED.4: Investigate the steps of the engineering design process in detail, including how to identify the problem, brainstorm, design, build, test, and improve.

8.2.8.ITH.2: Explain how technologies have influenced society throughout history. (Applies to discussions on backpacks, wildlife coexistence, sustainability.)

8.2.8.NT.2: Redesign an existing product to improve form or function. (Backpack redesign fits perfectly here.)

Design Thinking & Engineering Habits of Mind

Empathy: Considering the needs of the user/community/wildlife.

Creativity: Generating multiple original ideas before choosing one.

Collaboration: Working in teams to solve open-ended problems.

Communication: Explaining and presenting solutions clearly.

Ethical Impact: Balancing human needs with environmental concerns.