Back

Social sciences category is designed to guide you through various aspects of social studies, providing information on key elements in subjects such as History, Geography, Political Science, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Law, and more. Our goal is to help you develop a deep understanding of the society around you and encourage you to explore and address social issues that matter to you.

Social Sciences Overview:

Social Studies is a comprehensive field that encompasses the study of society, its rules and regulations, diverse cultures, regions, and the global world. It includes various disciplines, each contributing to a holistic understanding of the human experience.

    1. Psychology: Explore the intricacies of the human mind and behavior.

    2. Economics and Business: Delve into economic principles, econometrics, industrial relations, and various aspects of business and management.

    3. Educational Sciences: Investigate general education, training, pedagogy, didactics, and special education for gifted individuals or those with learning disabilities.

    4. Sociology: Examine topics related to sociology, demography, anthropology, and ethnology.

    5. Social Topics: Address issues such as women’s and gender studies, social issues, family studies, and social work.

    6. Law: Explore legal aspects and regulations governing society.

    7. Political Science: Study political structures, systems, and processes.

    8. Social and Economic Geography: Understand the geographical dimensions of social and economic phenomena.

    9. Environmental Sciences (Social Aspects): Investigate the intersection of environmental issues with social dynamics.

    10. Media and Communications: Analyze journalism, information science (social aspects), library science, and media in socio-cultural communication.

    11. Other Social Sciences: Explore interdisciplinary approaches and other social science topics.

Project Challenge:

For your social study project, choose a topic related to a social issue you are passionate about. Investigate, develop solutions, and present your findings. This hands-on approach will not only deepen your understanding of social sciences but also empower you to make a positive impact on the world around you.

Feel free to explore the diverse facets of the IGO Social Sciences Category and embark on a journey of discovery and social awareness!

Judging

The IGO judges will consider the following factors when evaluating each project. 

  1. Is the participant creative in presenting the project at the science fair? 
  • Does your research demonstrate creativity and authenticity? 
  • Is your research problem solved in an original way? 
  • Did you create or design your own set of unique equipment? 

2. In your science fair project, did you use scientific methods and procedures?  

  • Was your research problem stated clearly? 
  • Did you do your initial research using scientific literature? 
  • Did you state your variables clearly? 
  • Did you make use of any controls? 
  • Are your conclusions backed up by your data? 
  • Are you aware of the limitations of your data and experiment? And, are these limitations included in your conclusion? 
  • Did you include any recommendations for additional research? 

3. Did you complete your science project thoroughly? 

  • Have you thoroughly considered your science fair project and completed it in a systematic way with an easy-to-follow approach making use of scientific methods? 
  • Did you fully complete all sections in your research experiment? 
  • Have you created a project journal? 
  • Does your project journal include detailed notes taken throughout your experiment and investigation? 

4. Was the quality of your technical skills exceptional? 

  • Did you use all of the necessary equipment to collect your data? 
  • Did you test your project at home, at school, or in a university laboratory? 
  • Where did you get your equipment from? Did you design it on your own? Is it something that you borrowed? Did you work in a professional laboratory? 
  • Did you build your project on your own or did you use external assistance? If someone else helped you, do not forget to give credits to them as this is important for the judges to see. 

5. Are you certain that you have clarity with all of the specifics of your science project? 

6. It will also be looked at how beneficial your project can be to the society.  

Judging Criteria 

Research Question Clear and focused purpose (3 points)
Identifies contribution to the field of study (3 points)
Testable using scientific methods (4 points)
10
Methodology Appropriate research design, thorough data collection, clear explanation of methods, correct use of analysis techniques. 10
Data Collection Clear presentation of data, correct interpretation, relation to research question .  Systematic, appropriate, and sufficient data collection. 10
Background Research – Awareness of other approaches or theories concerning the project
– Familiarity with the scientific literature in the field
– Solution different from existing solutions
10
Ethical Considerations Thoughtful application of relevant ethical principles. 5
Interpretation – Is there appropriate use of mathematical and statistical methods?
– Is sufficient data collected to support interpretation and conclusions?
10
Creativity and Originality – Does the project demonstrate significant creativity and originality?
– Does it offer a unique approach or new perspective on a scientific problem/topic?
– Does it display innovative thinking or creative problem-solving skills?
– Does the project have potential applications or implications for the real world or scientific community?
15
Materials – Is the material organized logically?
– Are the graphics and legends clear?
– Is supporting documentation displayed effectively?
5
Oral Presentation – Communicates the relevance or importance of the research/project
– Clear, concise, thoughtful responses to questions
– Understanding of basic science relevant to the project
– Understanding interpretation and limitations of results and conclusions
– Degree of independence in conducting the project
– Recognition of potential impact in science, society, and/or economics
– Quality of ideas for further research
– For team projects, contributions to and understanding of the project by all members
15
Overall Impression

Does the participant demonstrate genuine interest and enthusiasm for their project?

Does the participant exhibit a good understanding of the scientific principles involved in their project?

Does the project reflect a significant investment of time and effort by the participant(s)?

10