Projects are to be judged for First, Second, Third or Honorable Mention ribbon relative to the ISEF judging criteria, taking into consideration the grade level of the student. Each project is to be judged relative to itself and the criteria, rather than relative to others in its category. Thus, all projects in a category could be awarded a first place ribbon (rare) or no project could be awarded a first place (also rare).
A project which deserves a first place ribbon is one in which all criteria are well satisfied. A second place might be awarded to a project somewhat deficient in one or more categories. A third place might be awarded to a project which is seriously deficient in one or more categories, but which displays a significant effort or learning experience (e.g., a "good try"). Projects which fail to meet any of the above would be awarded the Honorable Mention ribbon - however you should try to use this sparingly.
Category judging results will be returned to the committee by filling out a google forms survey at:
https://forms.gle/56zrwssUEL4njvxV8.
A form should be submitted for each project assigned to your committee. Comments (constructive only!) for the students should be on the form. You can submit more than one form for a particular project (if your wish to have more than one judge write out comments for example). The chair of your judging group should make certain that a form is returned for each of your assigned projects.
Again, many thanks for participating in this important educational activity!