Teachers

The PICSE - USQ Science and Engineering Investigation Awards provides an opportunity for students to research or explain how science and technology are integral to sustaining our environment, society, business, development and other aspects of our everyday lives. It is an opportunity for students to showcase their interests and skills and compete for prizes.

Why are we holding the Science Awards?

The PICSE - USQ Science and Engineering Investigation Awards is a great way for students to work and think like scientists to investigate the world around them.  It will assist students in developing research and communication skills.

Things you might want to know

Why should students participate?

• Students will conduct their own research or communicate and apply research
• Develop research and communication skills
• Discuss their project with experts
• Be eligible for great prizes
• Meet other students who enjoyed doing a research project
• Have a fun day at the Science and Engineering Investigation Awards
• Students can use their investigations to enter other awards at a later date (for example Queensland Science Contest)

How to prepare a poster presentation

• Use a sheet of cardboard (this will be supplied to you)
• The poster should legible, organised and succinct
• Have a clear heading at the top of the poster, as seen in the display board examples(PDF 42KB).
• How to make your presentation board (733 PDF KB)
• The body of the text should be viewable from 1.5 metres, therefore font size 16-18 (5-6mm) or larger is recommended
• Diagrams may be hand drawn, computer generated or photographic

What judges look for

Please consult the judging criteria for further information.

How it all works on the day

• Registered schools will receive a detailed program prior to the event for their reference.
  Students will arrive at the McGregor Dining Hall at USQ 9.00 am to set up their presentations.
• If power is needed on the day for a demonstration of investigation, coordinators will need to know in advance.
• Entrants will be given a numbered table upon which to place there poster presentation.
• Judging will take place between 10.00 am and 12.00 noon.  Students must be present at their tables to explain their presentation to the judges.
• Those students whose presentations are not being judged will be involved in science activties around USQ. 
• There will be a lunch break from 12.00 - 1.00 pm while competition results are being collated by competition officials.
• Announcement of winners and presentation will be held at the McGregor Dining Hall and is expected to finish by 2.00 pm.
• The winning entries will be retained by USQ to be showcased on Open Day.  All other entries are to be removed by students participating on the day.

Safety

All projects should be initially approved by teachers at the school and subsequently by a USQ competition coordinator. If there are any questions about safety please contact us.