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Fe
Iron
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Ni
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Helium Rhodium Palladium Silver Cadmium
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BT YOUNG SCIENTIST & TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITION
Ne Ir Pt Au Hg
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Neon Iridium Platinum Gold Mercury
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B C N O F
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BTYSTE
www.btyoungscientist.com
BTYSTE
Boron Carbon Nitrogen Oxygen Fluorine
Check out some of our videos
on the links below
BTYSTE 2017 highlights BTYSTE - What is it? Why you should enter
https://goo.gl/H9dWkd https://goo.gl/tn7Zxw https://goo.gl/FzCXp5
We have additional videos on our website http://btyoungscientist.com/video-archive
and on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/BTYoungScientists
BTYSTE www.btyoungscientist.com
Fe Co Ni Cu Zn
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It Starts Here
Iron Cobalt Nickel Copper Zinc
55.845 58.933194 58.6934 63.546 65.38
He Rh Pd Ag Cd
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Helium Silver
4.002602 102.90550 106.42 107.8682 112.414
General information 5-10 Entry details 12-25 At the exhibition 26-31 Rules 34-37 Photo gallery 38-39
Ne Ir Pt Au Hg
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Neon Iridium Gold
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5 Foreword from Shay Walsh 18 Your project This FactFile has been specifically prepared to help you
192.217 195.084 196.966569 200.592
and will prove invaluable as you prepare your project for
6 A Message from Richard Bruton TD 22 Important information the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. Of
B C N O F
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course, if you have any further queries, do not hesitate to
7 A Message from Derek Baker 24 Funding contact us at:
Boron9 How itCarbon
began 25 Timescales BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition,
10.81 12.011 14.007 15.999 18.998403163
BT, Grand Canal Plaza,
10 The awards 26 At the exhibition Upper Grand Canal Street, Dublin 4
Freephone: 1800 924 362
12 The how 29 Information for teachers or
12 The why 30 Information for parents and guardians BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition Office,
BT, Riverside Tower, 5 Lanyon Place,
13 Which category to enter 31 Additional student information Belfast BT1 3BT
Freephone: 0800 917 1297
14 Getting started 32 BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamp
Email: youngscientist@bt.com
16 Common mistakes 34 Rules Visit our website at: www.btyoungscientist.com
17 What happens next? 38 Photo gallery
www.btyoungscientist.com 3
4
Foreword by
Shay Walsh
Managing Director, BT Ireland
January 2018 will mark the 54th year of the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition
and BT’s 18th year as the trusted guardians of this exceptional event, something we are
immensely proud of.
Many of you reading this are either past participants or visitors awards to be won, there’s so much opportunity to succeed.
to the exhibition, so I do not need to explain to you how truly And at the very least, by getting involved, you could get the
special this exhibition is. And really, until you have experienced chance to represent your school and community at the RDS in
it for yourself, it is difficult to sum up what the BTYSTE is all Dublin this January.
about and why, each year, this event just grows and grows in Within the pages of this fact file you will find everything you
popularity and importance. need to know about how to enter this year’s exhibition and
For me, the BTYSTE is about the beginning of something why you and your school should get involved. It will provide
extraordinary – an idea, a thought of some kind by a curious you with all the guidance you need as well as helpful tips and
young student who simply has a question about the world in advice, including details of a financial package we have put in
which we live. What the exhibition does is give this person a place to support those living a certain distance from the
platform and the tools by which to research or develop this exhibition venue in Dublin.
idea. It may sound easy and believe it or not, it actually is. Finally, we at BT could not deliver an exhibition of this scale
From the wheel to the smartphone, everything we have come without the support of our ever-growing eco-system of
to depend on in our daily lives started with an idea by a person partners including the Department of Education and Skills in
just like you. the Republic of Ireland, the Department of Education in
BT is a company that was built by and today succeeds on Northern Ireland, Analog Devices, Perrigo, Intel and RTÉ.
this essential combination of ideas and the curious minds
behind these ideas. It is the very reason that we
I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of
organise this exhibition and why we are so everyone at BT, to wish you the very best of
passionate about getting people involved and luck and we look forward to receiving your
taking part. Walking through the exhibition
each year, I am inspired and assured that entries over the coming weeks.
the future of our planet is in excellent
hands because people like you are going
to be our future entrepreneurs, activists,
academics, scientists and technologists.
More than anything however, the BTYSTE Shay Walsh
is about having fun and learning, so why not Managing Director, BT Ireland
consider submitting an entry in this year’s Proud sponsor and organiser of the BT Young
exhibition. With over 140 teacher and student Scientist & Technology Exhibition
< Contents 5
A Message from
Richard Bruton TD
Minister for Education and Skills
I am delighted to be involved in BTYSTE again for another year in my capacity as Minister for Education. Tá gliondar croí orm baint a bheith agam in BTYSTE arís do bhliain eile i mo cháil mar Aire Oideachais.
I have attended the competition many times over the years and have always been impressed by the D’fhreastail mé ar an gcomórtas an iomaí uair le himeacht na mblianta agus chuaigh an díocas, an
enthusiasm, creativity and fun which surrounds the entire event. chruthaitheacht agus an spraoi a bhaineann leis an imeacht i gcion orm i gcónaí.
Last year saw 375 schools represented, by 4,591 students who submitted over 2000 projects from across Anuraidh, rinne 4,591 scoláire ionadaíocht do 375 scoil a sheol os cionn 2000 tionscadal ar aghaidh ó
the island of Ireland, both North and South. This great national event attracted over 65,000 people who áiteanna ar fud oileán na hÉireann, ón Tuaisceart agus ón Deisceart araon. Mheall an t-imeacht iontach
came to visit and become enthralled by the energy and innovation of the young people that took part. náisiúnta seo breis agus 65,000 duine a tháinig chun cuairt a thabhairt agus a bhí faoi gheasa ag
fuinneamh agus nuálaíocht na ndaoine óga a ghlac páirt ann.
One of the most positive aspects of the BTYSTE is to see the partnership and pride of both students and
teachers that the Exhibition promotes. We all know that the students are the stars of the show, however, Ar cheann de na gnéithe is dearfaí de BTYSTE is ea an chomhpháirt agus an mórtas i measc scoláirí agus
a special word of acknowledgement has to go to the teachers who guide and encourage students on this múinteoirí araon a chuireann an Taispeántas chun cinn, a thabhairt faoi deara. Is eol dúinn go léir gurb iad
voyage of curiosity and discovery. na scoláirí réaltaí an tseó, ach tá orainn focal speisialta buíochais a rá ar son na múinteoirí, áfach, a
threoraíonn agus a spreagann scoláirí ar an aistear fiosrachta agus fionnachtana seo.
Science and technology clearly have the capacity to capture the imagination of students. It is important
that our education system supports students to develop their skills in science, technology, engineering Is léir go bhfuil an cumas ag an eolaíocht agus an teicneolaíocht chun samhlaíocht na scoláirí a ghabháil. Is
and maths. Through the government’s Action Plan for Education, which aims to make the Irish education tábhachtach go dtacaíonn ár gcóras oideachais le scoláirí chun a scileanna san eolaíocht, teicneolaíocht,
system the best in Europe within a decade, we have put a priority on STEM education. We have already innealtóireacht agus matamaitic a fhorbairt. Tríd an bPlean Gnímh um Oideachas de chuid an rialtais, a
prioritised 21 actions to make Ireland a leader in STEM education, including looking towards a means to bhfuil de chuspóir aige an córas is fearr san Eoraip laistigh de dheich mbliana a dhéanamh de chóras
recognise participation in extra-curricular STEM events and activities, like BTYSTE, as part of STEM oideachais na hÉireann, tá tús áite tugtha againn d’oideachas Eolaíochta, Teicneolaíochta, Innealtóireachta
curriculum and assessment. agus Matamaitice (STEM). Thugamar tús áite cheana féin do 21 gníomh chun ceannasaí a dhéanamh
d’Éirinn in oideachas STEM, ag féachaint chun cinn i dtreo bealach chun rannpháirtíocht a aithint in
It is world-class exhibitions like the BTYSTE that help to continue our country’s heritage of having a long imeachtaí agus gníomhaíochtaí seach-churaclaim STEM, san áireamh, mar chuid de churaclam agus
history in scientific achievements, building on the dramatic improvements in publicly funded scientific measúnú STEM.
research.
Is taispeántais den chéad scoth, ar nós BTYSTE, a leanann ag cabhrú le hoidhreacht ár dtíre chun stair fhada
It is also why I am very proud that my Department provides significant financial support to the BT Young a bheith aici in éachtaí eolaíochta, ag cur leis na feabhsúcháin shuntasacha atá tagtha ar thaighde
Scientist & Technology Exhibition. eolaíochta a chistítear go poiblí.
This Factfile sets out the remarkable success story of the BTYSTE as it goes from strength-to-strength. Sin an fáth, chomh maith leis sin, go bhfuilim bródúil go soláthraíonn mo Roinn tacaíocht shuntasach
The BTYSTE has a very special place in Irish education. Each year thousands of people, many who entered airgeadais do Thaispeántas na Eolaithe Óga agus Teicneolaíochta BT.
projects decades ago, still express their appreciation and fond memories of the Exhibition. Each year the Leagtar amach sa Chomhad Fíricí seo scéal dochreidte ratha an BTYSTE de réir mar a théann sé ó neart go
BTYSTE provides a platform for students to showcase their passion and their curiosity in our rapidly neart. Tá áit an-speisialta ag an BTYSTE in oideachas na hÉireann. Gach bliain, léiríonn na mílte duine, ar
changing world - long may that continue. iontráil go leor díobh tionscadail roinnt mhaith blianta ó shin, an tuiscint agus na cuimhní maithe atá acu ar
2017 was a remarkable year for BTYSTE and I look forward to BTYSTE 2018. an Taispeántas. Gach bliain, soláthraíonn BTYSTE ardán do scoláirí chun a bpaisean agus a bhfiosracht inár
ndomhan atá ag athrú go tapa a thaispeáint – go mairfidh sin go ceann blianta fada.
B’iontach an bhliain 2017 don BTYSTE agus táim ag súil le BTYSTE 2018.
Richard Bruton, T.D.,
An tAire Oideachais agus Scileanna
6 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < Contents
A Message from
Derek Baker
Permanent Secretary, Department of Education
The promotion of STEM subjects is extremely important to our future economic growth, driving innovation
and providing job opportunities for young people when they leave education. By studying STEM subjects
BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2017
at school and through participation in competitions such as the BT Young Scientist and Technology
Exhibition, young people can access exciting and interesting opportunities in fields such as engineering,
computing and science-based design. The demand for well qualified people in such fields remains high,
and it is crucial that Northern Ireland nurtures its own talent and skills base to remain competitive. The
skills associated with STEM subjects will remain in high demand in the future, so the skills acquired today
will have long term benefits for young people, the economy and society.
The BT Young Scientist and Technology
Exhibition provides a great opportunity for
young people to showcase their talent in these Teachers play a vital role in MATRIX Best Northern Ireland School Award BT Best Project in Irish - Seoda Ní Chaoimh,
areas while competing at the highest possible
Loreto College, Coleraine Gaelcholaiste Luimnigh, Co Limerick
level. It also allows entrants to collaborate with encouraging young people to get
their peers demonstrating and developing
creativity, problem solving and team working involved and even if your school has
skills, skills which are all highly sought after by
employers.
never participated before, I would
In previous years, entrants from Northern strongly encourage you to consider
Ireland have enjoyed a great deal of success at
the Exhibition, proving that our young people
applying and to make the most of
have the ability and talent necessary to compete this opportunity to help your pupils
at this level. I hope that in 2018 even more
schools from Northern Ireland will participate achieve their full potential. NAPD Best Republic of Ireland School Award Intel Educator of Excellence Award - Siobhan Ui
Coláiste Treasa, Cork Shearcaigh, Pobalscoil Gaoth Dobhair, Donegal
and that our young people will enjoy even
greater levels of success.
Teachers play a vital role in encouraging young people to get involved and even if your school has never
participated before, I would strongly encourage you to consider applying and to make the most of this
opportunity to help your pupils achieve their full potential. If your school has entered before, then you will
be well aware of the benefits of the competition, and the opportunities it offers to pupils in terms of their
academic progress and personal development.
I look forward to hearing of the success of pupils from Northern Ireland in the 2018 Exhibition and may I
take this opportunity to wish all involved every success in the competition.
BT Best Northern Ireland Project - Donal Close and Analog Devices™ Educator of Excellence award -
Sian Donaghy from Loreto College, Coleraine Sean Connolly from St Killians College, Carnlough
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 7
8
How it began
The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition is the brainchild of two UCD physics researchers, And so the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition was born. The first competition was held in 1965
a Carmelite priest, the Rev Dr Burke, and Dr Tony Scott. In 1963 these two atmospheric physicists in the Round Room of the Mansion House in Dublin and attracted 230 entries. The first ever winner was
discovered the concept of ‘science fairs’ while conducting research in Socorro, New Mexico, USA. John Monahan from Kildare. The success and interest in the first event was such that the exhibition
The local school science exhibitions culminated in state fairs and ultimately a national competition. moved to the much larger venue of the RDS in 1966 and it has remained there ever since.
The pair thought that this hands-on science approach was something that Irish students could really
The early Young Scientist Exhibition involved individual student competitors, but in 1976 groups were
benefit from, by taking science outside the four walls of the classroom and showing that it is all around us.
introduced for the first time. Many more developments have happened over the fascinating 52 year
history of this national institution, a few key milestones are listed below.
Fr Tom Burke in the First ever winner was With thanks to Dr Tony Scott
New Mexico desert John Monahan from & the late Fr Tom Burke for
Newbridge College their amazing vision
1963 1965 1972 1976 1977 1983 1989 2010 2014 2017
1963 The 1965 First ever 1972 Schools 1976 Group 1977 New range 1983 1989 First year 2003 First year 2010 New 2014 50th 2017 Highest
concept was born Young Scientist from Northern projects of categories Participated in of the European of the Primary BT Business anniversary number of
at a science fair exhibition was Ireland introduced for introduced for International Union Contest for Science Fair Bootcamp of the Young entries, 2091
in New Mexico, held at the participated for the first time projects Science & Young Scientists launched Scientist & entries from
USA Mansion House the first time Engineering Fair (EUCYS), which Technology 4591 students
for the first time Ireland has won Exhibition across Ireland.
14 times!
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 9
The awards
Main awards Category awards
There are 36 prizes for individuals and 36 prizes for group
projects. The prizes take the form of 1st, 2nd and 3rd in Junior,
BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year 2018 Intermediate and Senior sections of each of the four categories:
Individual or Group Technology
e.g. communications, electronic systems, robotics, computing, control technology,
• BT Young Scientist(s) of the Year Trophy (perpetual) applications of technology, biotechnology, automation.
• Cheque for €5,000 / £4,500
Biological & Ecological Sciences
• The chance to represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists e.g. agriculture, anatomy, biochemistry, biotechnology, ecology, horticulture, physiology,
medical science, veterinary science.
Best Individual or Best Group Social & Behavioural Sciences
e.g. economic, geographical, psychological or sociological studies of human behaviour,
nutrition, social anthropology, political science.
• BT Trophy (perpetual)
• Cheque for €2,400 / £2,160 Chemical, Physical & Mathematical Sciences
e.g. chemistry, physics, mathematics, applied mathematics, geology, engineering, computer
programming, meteorology, astronomy.
Runner-up Individual and Runners-up Group
The prizes are:
• BT Trophy (perpetual)
• Cheque for €1,200 / £1,080 1st prize 2nd prize 3rd prize
€300 / £270 €225 / £202 €150 / £135
Please note if the BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year is awarded to an Individual, a Best Group
Award will also be made. If the BT Young Scientist of the Year is awarded to a Group, a Best Individual for both Individual for both Individual for both Individual
Award will also be made. and Group projects and Group projects and Group projects
In the event of a tie in any category, the prize money will be split equally.
Check out the highlights from A number of highly commended and display awards will also be awarded
BTYSTE 2017... in each category by the panel of judges.
https://goo.gl/H9dWkd
10 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsTravel awards
Student awards Educator of excellence awards
Analog Devices Student Award These awards will be presented to the teachers whose commitment and encouragement have consistently
This award is presented to an individual or group for outstanding work exhibited in the Technology enabled their students to participate successfully in all categories of the exhibition.
category, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of the Year. Analog Devices Educator of Excellence Award - Technology
The prize consists of a trophy and a trip to the USA as the guest(s) of Analog Devices, visiting San Francisco
The winner receives the Analog Devices Trophy and a trip to USA, to a destination of your choice, as the
and Los Angeles. In addition, Analog Devices will donate €2,500 to the school of the winning student(s) as
guest of Analog Devices*.
a contribution towards its science laboratory equipment fund*.
Perrigo Educator of Excellence - Biological and Ecological Sciences
Intel Student Award
The winner receives a bursary of €2,000 and a Perrigo Trophy.
This award is presented to an individual or group for outstanding work exhibited in the Chemical, Physical
& Mathematical Sciences category, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist BT Educator of Excellence - Social and Behavioural Sciences
& Technologist(s) of the Year. The prize is an all-expenses paid trip to the USA to compete in the Intel The winner receives a bursary of €2,000 and a BT Trophy.
International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 13-18, 2018. The
teacher/mentor of the winner(s) of this award will also receive an all-expenses paid trip to ISEF. Intel Educator of Excellence Award - Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences
The winner will receive the Intel trophy and an all-expenses paid trip to the USA to attend the Intel
Perrigo Student Award International Science and Engineering Fair which takes place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 13-18,
Perrigo will present an award in the Biological and Ecological category to the best placed project, either 2018.
group or individual, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of
the Year. The winning project will be awarded €2,000.
RTÉ Student Award
RTÉ will present an award in the Social and Behavioural Sciences category to the best placed project, either
group or individual, except where the project has been selected as BT Young Scientist & Technologist(s) of
the Year.
*Analog Devices will contact winner with details, terms and conditions. Rev Dr Tom Burke bursary
Special awards
Fr Tom was one of the co-founders of the project and sadly passed away
in 2008. In memory of his contribution to the project, a €1,000
bursary is awarded in his name to an individual participant who is
We are proud to have a fabulous range of special awards at this year’s Exhibition presented by our deemed by the judges to be the best communicator. This will be paid
partner organisations. Special awards recognise excellence in specific areas. Examples include on application to a student to help them in their second/third level
projects with a focus on innovation in technology, physics, chemistry, sustainability, recycling, education.
the environment, research or improving cancer awareness. Each award is industry-sponsored and This bursary will be open to participants of all categories across all
details of each organisation and the awards can be found on the Awards section of our website age groups, but the winner cannot be either the overall Individual
www.btyoungscientist.com Winner or Runner Up.
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 11Closing date
Closing date BTYSTE
The how for students
for teacher
assessments
2018
This section details the important information on who can enter, how to enter and by 25th Sept. 2017 10th – 13th Jan.
when. So the first things to note are the key dates: 27th Sept. 2017
by midnight 2018
by 5pm
Who can enter The why
The competition is open to second-level students from Ireland, north and south, who If you’re wondering why you should get involved in the BT Young Scientist &
are aged between 12 and 19 years on 31st October 2017. Technology Exhibition, here are just a few of the benefits.
Getting the chance to represent your school/town at the exhibition is
a real buzz and an experience you will never forget.
Plus, if you’re lucky enough to win, you’ll go on to represent the competition at the
European Union Contest for Young Scientists.
Although a love for science and technology lies at the heart of all the
entries, we’re sure everyone also has an eye on the prizes!
There are over 140 prizes to be won, including the prestigious BT Young Scientist &
INDIVIDUAL GROUP * Technologist of the Year Award which comes with a cash prize of €5k.
It’s a brilliant extra-curricular activity to put on your CV or university
*A group is defined as comprising of no more than three people from the same school and the same age application.
grouping. If a group is made up of students in different years, these students should be entered into the It shows a real passion for science, maths, an ability to think for yourself along with time
oldest member’s group i.e. If a student in 4th year/Year 12 partners up with a student in 5th year/Year 13 management and communication skills
this group should be entered into the Senior category.
The rewards aren’t just confined to entrants. Teachers will also see
real, long-term benefits by getting involved.
It’s a great way to get pupils fired up about the vital subjects of science and technology
and a brilliant way to showcase your school’s scientific pedigree. It also helps to inject a
fun element into traditionally ‘serious’ subjects like science and maths.
12 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsWhich category to enter
Please study the definitions closely and be careful to choose the correct project category.
An incorrect choice may result in a project not being accepted (See Rule 1.11).
Technology Biological & Ecological Social & Behavioural Chemical, Physical &
Sciences Sciences Mathematical Sciences
For a project to be accepted into the technology For a project to be accepted into this category it For a project to be accepted into this category it For a project to be accepted into this category it
category the core of the project must be the use of must have a biological and/or ecological focus and must cover social and behavioural sciences, must be based on chemistry, physics, mathematics,
technology in new or improved applications, investigate aspects of animal, human, microbial or economic, geographical, psychological or applied mathematics, engineering, computer
enhanced efficiencies, new innovations or better plant biology. Typically, projects deal with the sociological studies of human behaviour, attitudes programming and language or electronics. Projects
ways to do things. The category could include following areas of study: agriculture, anatomy, and experience, social analysis of environmental based on earth and space sciences such as
things related to the internet, communications, animal science, biochemistry, biotechnology, factors, demography, learning or perception. meteorology, geophysics, geology and astronomy
electronic systems, robotics, control technology, disease, ecology, environmental science, The study of attitudes and behaviour in relation to are also eligible.
applications of technology, biotechnology, enzymology, forestry, food science, genetics, health, nutrition, work, leisure and living habits will
innovative developments to existing problems, horticulture, medical science, metabolism, also be considered. Projects on consumer affairs,
computing and automation. Students are also microbiology, molecular biology, physiology, effects on society, social anthropology and political
expected to understand the basic science behind physiotherapy, plant science or veterinary science. science, provided they involve the use of scientific
the technology so that they can get the most from methods, are also eligible.
the project.
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 13Getting started Where to get your idea?
To help you decide on a topic, think about what you would like to hobbies/skills/every day life
study. Ideas might come from hobbies or perhaps problems you
have observed that need a solution.
http://btyoungscientist.com/2017-video-archive/
Research is the answer
Research is the process by which people create new knowledge about the world in which they live, in
order to answer a question or solve a problem. When choosing your topic, give careful thought to how
your research might enhance the world and its inhabitants.
Questioning is probably the most important part of scientific creativity and is often followed by an
“if...,then...” statement.
Questioning usually leads to observations or experiments.
Initial research
Visit your local library or use the internet to learn e verything you can about
your chosen subject.
Organise
Organise everything you have learned a bout your topic. At this point you
should narrow your hypothesis byfocusing on a particular idea.
Make a timetable
Choose a topic that not only interests you, but also can be done in the amount
of time you have. And remember to leave time to write your report and put
together an exhibit.
14 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsOnline applications must include:
1. Entry form for projects (completed by students)
In addition to other information, you will give your project a title on this form. The
project title should accurately reflect the scientific content of the project. Avoid using
what you may think is a smart or catchy title; such titles are generally misleading and
do not necessarily impress the judges. The title you choose is the one that will appear
on your stand and the printed programme, should your project progress to the
exhibition at the RDS.
2. Project details form (completed by students)
On this form you should detail your project, how you intend to approach it and the
work you have carried out to date.
3. One page proposal (completed by students)
This very important document forms a crucial part of the process by which the
screening judges decide whether your project is accepted or not. It should explain to the
judges what your project is all about and will help them decide whether or not you have
already carried out some research. Care should be taken in preparing your proposal.
More information on how to complete your one page proposal can be found online at
http://btyoungscientist.com/submission-process/
4. Entry fee
An entry fee of €20/ £18 per student is payable by cheque/bank draft, postal order or
credit card. Cash will not be accepted. Results of the project screening phase will not be
released without full payment being made. Already entered a science or technology competition?
5. Teacher assessment form (completed by teachers) If your students have already completed projects in another
science/technology/innovation/entrepreneurship competition, why not get some more mileage
This needs to be completed online by teachers by Wednesday 27th September.
from them and enter the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition?
Late entries will not be accepted.
Who knows? You could already have the winning project.
N.B. Requests for accommodation grants (where appropriate), must be made on the Teacher All you have to do is tick the appropriate box on your Entry Form for Projects.
Assessment Form at the time of entry. (More information available on page 24)
Good luck!
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 15Common mistakes
The judges have identified the most common weaknesses in 5. Lack of originality
The specific question raised in a project must be one that has not been posed and recorded by any
projects at the initial entry stage. These weaknesses could result in previous scientist. However, this is not to say that twenty projects on the topic of, for example, radon
the project not qualifying for the exhibition in January. Please gas or water pollution, could not be original, if they will deal in different ways with different aspects
review before submitting your project. of the topics.
6. Unsuitability of topic
1. Lack of original primary research A topic must be able to be scientifically proven or disproved by research methods available to second
Some studies are little more than a description of what is already known about the topic. Researching level students. A project on whether or not Jupiter is inhabited by living creatures is really not a
the existing body of knowledge is only the first stage of any scientific study. suitable topic.
2. Unreliable experimental methods 7. Lack of scientific content
Frequently, projects state a particular method for data collection, which simply cannot collect the Often proposals are submitted that are not scientific projects, but literature reviews. These proposals
data required. Suppose the aim of the project was to find out which washing powder was most are information collection exercises and not scientific studies.
effective. All too often students write that they will gather this information via questionnaire. This
only allows them to collect attitudes and opinions about the most effective washing powder, but what 8. Safety issues
is really required for a scientific study is a chemical experiment. Projects which put the students themselves or others at risk of physical injury or disease will not be
accepted for the Exhibition.
3. Vagueness/unfocused objectives
A study which aims to find out all about the ozone layer is not a realistic scientific study as no-one 9. Ethical issues
could be expected to find this out in the given time. Scientific research requires you to be very specific Projects which put the students or others at risk psychologically or emotionally will not be accepted
about what you wish to find out and setting measurable objectives is the only way to present scientific for the Exhibition.
investigation. For example a project that looks at the effects of industrial activity on wildlife would
have to focus on a very specific issue, as this topic is so broad. Much thought should be given to which 10. Investigation period
category best suits your project. Sometimes students propose a project that is weak because the period over which the project is being
carried out is too short. Judges need to be convinced that the student has enough time to complete
4. Lack of clarity in describing scientific methods
the project for the Exhibition.
This information should be given on the project details form and/or the one page proposal. The judges
need to know exactly what experiments are being carried out, in terms of specific experimental 550 project places will be available for the Exhibition in the RDS in Dublin next January. However, each
processes, materials or the who and how of a social survey. category is allocated a finite number of places based on the number of projects entered in that category. It
is possible that some projects may not qualify if the quota for a category has been filled with higher ranked
projects.
16 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsAsk yourself What happens next?
Before you go any further, ask yourself Your entry is considered by a panel of screening judges who
these questions: carefully consider every project. Following their decision, you will
be informed whether or not your project has qualified. The judges
Have you clearly defined the Have you obtained may also request further information at this stage. This screening
aims of your study? meaningful results? process should take around four weeks to complete, so please be
patient.
Have you been able to access
Have you been QUALIFIED
successful
the necessary apparatus and Teachers will receive an email confirming that the judges have accepted the project. This will also contain
with experiments
equipment? more details of the exhibition.
and data collection?
Has the project been QUERIED
Are you confident
published previously in part If your project is queried, the judges will send you or your teacher an email. With your teacher’s assistance
that you can complete
or in full? you must answer this query as soon as possible.
the project in time f
If so, give details in your
or the exhibition?
project report. NOT QUALIFIED
Are you using potentially The judges may decide not to accept a project. This means that you will not present your project at the
Has the project been Exhibition in the RDS in January. The reason for non-qualification is sent by email to your teacher. You
dangerous chemicals,
entered in any other will also receive a letter notifying you of this decision. Included with the letter will be a certificate of
organisms or equipment in
exhibition or competition? participation and a family pass to admit two adults and up to two students to the BT Young Scientist &
your project?
If so, be sure to mention this Technology Exhibition 2018.
If so, please discuss with your
in your entry form N.B. The submission of a project does not automatically mean that the project will qualify
teacher to ensure that your
for projects and in your for the Exhibition in the RDS in January. The judges’ decisions are final in all cases and
project adheres to the correct
project report. neither BT nor its employees have any influence.
safety regulations.
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 171
Your project - The THREE main elements
When waiting to hear if your project has qualified it is important to continue working on your project. Every project will have three elements:
Project Diary Visual Display
All entries must keep a diary which should contain: day-to-day records of how the project is progressing, a full record of the names of sources you have looked Your display is a summary of your project. Do not
up and all the people/institutions you have contacted. Record everything in your diary and use it as an information store for writing your report. You can write try to display your entire project, cover just the
personal comments about how your project is progressing. main points and highlights. Plan your display well in
If you are working as a group, appoint a leader who should keep all relevant information and appoint a group member to keep the diary. advance. Use a plan to help you make the best use
of your space. Work out the dimensions of
everything you want to include. How your project is
Project Report Book displayed on your stand will be taken into
consideration by the judges when reaching their
Your report book should be no more than 50 pages previous research in this area. • Acknowledgements - at the end of your report decision.
of text (typed) plus appendices and references. It • Experimental methods - this section should acknowledge any help you received during the
Your charts or other display material should fit
should be organised under the following sections: describe the experiments you carried out. Keep project for example, teachers, companies,
within your project space. The dimensions of the
• Title page - this contains the names of the in mind the value of diagrams and illustrations. institutions and parents.
display stand are as follows:
project, school and student(s). • Results - you should include a good sample of • Appendices - additional information, reports and
any letters/correspondence. The back display panel is A0 landscape format
• Comments page - a page which may be signed your measurements and all of your important
(1189mm wide by 841mm high) and the worktop
by a judge. results in this section. You can include the bulk of • References - list any books, articles, web pages
and references that helped you in your project. is 1200mm wide by 600mm deep. Your exhibit
• Contents page - includes the sections and page your readings and measurements in appendices.
must fit within these dimensions. Cardboard sheets,
numbers of the report. • Conclusions and recommendations - comment Important notes: when you arrive at the RDS sized to fit the back panels, will be available on site
• Summary/Abstract - essential part of your on the results of your work in this unit, be CLEAR please make sure that you write your stand number if required.
project. It should be about two pages long and and CONCISE. on the front of your report book as this will identify
the stand to which it needs to be returned. When finalising the planning of your display, ask
include a short summary of your project. How…
yourself: Will the judges/visitors be able to move
When someone reads this summary they should ..does your work compare with existing theories? The judges will collect your report book for a closer through my project, step by step, from background
understand what you were setting out to achieve ..accurate is the data you got from your study? look at your project. This will not be returned to onto methods and from there to results and
and what your main results and conclusions are. ..might your work be extended and improved? you until the end of the exhibition. However, be conclusions? Is the text big enough to be easily read
• Introduction - this should set the scene for your What... assured that each report book will be studied by both the judges and the public?
report. Why did you do the project and what did ..are the strong and weak points of your carefully by the assigned judges in the judging
you hope to achieve? methods? rooms. Also please note that not all assigned judges
In this section you should also refer to surveys, Does... will sign your report book. In some cases only the
experiments, questionnaires and the part they ..your project contribute to scientific knowledge first judge will sign your book, but this does not
played in your project. Make sure you refer to and research? indicate in any way that your project is weak.
18 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsHelpful hints for a good display apparatus and, if applicable, how you will collect
Carrying out the work your data.
1. A good title 1189mm
Your title is an extremely important Carry out your research
You now know what the project requires, here are
attention-grabber, which should simply some guidelines on carrying out the work involved. Record each and every measurement, experiment
and accurately present your research. The or observation. At this stage, your project may fail
841mm
Student board
title should make the casual observer want 1189mm wide Before you go any further ask yourself these simple completely. If so, it is still important to record and
x 841mm high
to know more. Ensure you do not use brand questions: report the failure. Remember a null result is still a
names in your title. scientific finding and an important guide to other
• What am I trying to find out?
scientists. Record all your observations and
2. Take photographs 600mm • How am I going to do this?
findings.
Many projects involve elements that may NB. Table top is curved
• Where can I get the help I need?
not be safely exhibited at the exhibition, maximum depth
600mm as indicated
• What do I expect to find out at the end of Analyse your results
but are an important part of the project. my research? After you have completed all of your research, you
Take photographs of important parts/ • Have I access to the apparatus or need to examine and organise your results. Focus
phases of your experiment to use in your equipment to carry out the work? on how your results relate to your original topic and
display. (Photographs or other visual its objectives. Good results merit good presentation.
images of human test subjects must have Once you are satisfied that you can really get to
informed consent.) grips with your project, then you enter the Make your conclusions
planning stage. Remember, only a few scientific
3. Be organised discoveries are the result of chance or luck. The rest
You are now ready to develop a theory to explain
your findings. Keep an open mind on the results
Make sure your display is logically presented and easy to read. A glance should permit anyone (particularly are the result of dedicated thought and
you get and the conclusions you reach.
the judges) to locate quickly the title, experiments, results and conclusions. When you arrange your experimentation.
display, imagine that you are seeing it for the first time. Evaluate your project
Read background material and
4. Eye-catching literature
You are now in a position to make
recommendations and perhaps contribute through
Make your display stand out. Use neat, colourful headings, charts, and graphs to present your project.
The advice here is read, read and then read some these to scientific knowledge.
Homebuilt equipment, paper and use of colour are excellent for project displays. Pay special attention to
more! this will give you real insight into your topic. Ask yourself the following questions:
the labelling of graphs, charts, diagrams and tables, each item must have a descriptive title. Anyone should
Background material can be obtained from books
be able to understand the visuals without further explanation. Make sure that the text is large enough to
and journals and by using the internet. Remember • Did you succeed in researching your topic?
be read easily.
to keep a record of this in your project diary.
• Do your conclusions support your original
5. Correctly presented and well constructed Plan your research and design hypothesis?
Be sure to adhere to the size limitations and safety considerations when preparing your display. Make sure • Have you added to the body of knowledge
Decisions need to be made on which experiments
your display is sturdy, as it will need to remain intact for quite a while. Do not hesitate to ask for advice through your research?
you will conduct, how you will design your
from adults if you need it. It is very important to check the spelling!
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 19Good scientists use a process to study what they
see in the world.
As a scientist you should learn to be sceptical about all research results, especially your own. A good
experiment may or may not answer the questions asked, but almost always leads to fresh questions which
require new experiments or observations. The final hypothesis is often developed after you have run a
number of preliminary experiments, analysed a body of results, and reached a tentative conclusion.
By following the six stages listed below, you should be able to produce a superior scientific project.
Be curious, choose a limited Review published materials Evaluate possible solutions and
subject, ask a question, related to your problem or make your educated guess
identify or originate/ question (hypothesis)
define a problem
Challenge and test your Evaluate the results of your Prepare your report
hypothesis through experiment and reach and exhibit
experimentation conclusions based on
(data collection) and your data
analysis
20 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsData collection
Data can be collected in four ways Guidelines on sampling
Remember to use a representative sample.
1 Documentary sources
Documents can be used to set an idea in a historical context or as the basis for an entire study. Random sampling Stratified sampling
A wide variety of documents can be used, e.g. the Census of Population, available from the
Central Statistics Office, personal documents, photographs and maps - available from A random sample means that every member of a The idea of using groups or classes within the
www.ordnancesurvey.ie (ROI) or www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk (NI). population had an equal chance of being chosen, population being analysed.
e.g. pulling numbers from a hat.
2 Observations
This is one of the primary methods of collecting data, but care must always be taken to ensure Case studies Quota sampling
that the data is observed in an unbiased way.
The observer’s senses may not be able to record everything. Also, if the observer is watching These look at a small number of individuals If you want to interview, for example, 200 people
people, animals or other organisms whose behaviour changes because they are being and a particular context in depth, may be about shopping, you could go to a particular part
observed, the results may be invalid. useful in helping us understand how a of town where you could meet shoppers.
particular process works.
3 Surveys
Questionnaires, interviews and schedules are some of the techniques used in conducting Systematic sampling
survey work. Questionnaire design merits great attention. It is very important to think
A systematic sample takes every nth
through how you are going to analyse the results you will get. Your questions should be clear,
concise and should gather the relevant information. Guidelines on statistics member from a population.
4 Tests, measurementsand experiments What techniques can you use to analyse data?
These should only be used if they are relevant to your research and if you are capable of doing
and understanding them yourself. Particular attention should be given to the design o f
experiments, the requirement for controls, sufficient replication and repeat experiments You could s ummarise You could try to You could carry out a
where appropriate. Ensure that any testing or experimentation you undertake is not your data explain patterns significance test
dangerous i.e. it does not put yourself or others at risk of injury or disease. This procedure means what it which emerge, e.g. a t-test
says. It is a way of reducing using comparison
the bulk of data to a more Significance tests are used to
manageable size, as well as techniques make sure that results from
seeing some patterns These techniques are widely comparing data sets are not
emerging. used to compare variables. the result of chance.
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 21Important advice - please read carefully
Patents Plagiarism
Is your invention patentable? Prior to making a patent application, you must not Plagiarism is using others’ ideas or words without clearly acknowledging
make any public disclosure of your idea/invention,
The vast majority of students taking part in the BT
or put it into use publicly, e.g. at BTYSTE. The
the source of that information.
Young Scientist & Technology exhibition will not
patent application itself must be the first public You must give credit to sources whenever you use:
need to consider applying for a patent.
disclosure of the invention. Any prior disclosure of
However, if your project comprises functional or the invention will count against the invention being
technical aspects that are new and not an obvious considered new, and could result in the patent
development on what already exists, you might being invalid.
consider applying for patent protection.
If an invention is in the public domain it is
considered ‘prior art’ and no longer patentable in
For an invention to be most countries including the UK and Ireland.
another person’s idea, any facts, statistics, quotations of another paraphrase of another
patentable it must be: But please remember that there are costs involved
should you decide to apply for a patent.
opinion, or theory graphs, drawings or person’s actual spoken person’s spoken or
any piece of or written words written words
1 Totally new These initial costs are:
information that is not
Search using free patent databases like • The basic patent office fees (a few hundred common knowledge
Espacenet or Google Patent, or even euro/pounds depending on where you file the
search sites like Google or Yahoo. patent application e.g. the Irish Patents Office These guidelines apply irrespective of the source of the information. Plagiarism of any kind will
or UK Patent Office). The Irish Patents Office result in immediate disqualification from the competition (see Rule 1.13 on Page 34).
2 Not obvious to a person who charges €125 to file a standard patent. It
works in the technology field would cost a minimum of €550 to get it to the
(usually an improvement with surprising grant phase.
benefits) • The optional, but advisable, patent attorney Ethics
3 Capable of industrial fees can add up considerably (these fees are
usually thousands, rather than hundreds). Scientific and technological investigations and applications must be undertaken with integrity
application through the use of rigorous methods.
(e.g. manufacture) Invention disclosure forms can help reduce
these costs. Participating students must ensure that the involvement of people in their research is always fully
4 Not be part of an excluded justified and if so, there is a duty to protect the wellbeing, dignity and privacy of those individuals.
category
(e.g. equipment specifically designed
More information The welfare of any animals subject to investigation must always be respected and likewise, any
experimentation carried out in the natural environment must avoid having adverse impacts.
for human or animal torture) www.patentsoffice.ie
22 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsGAISCE The President’s Award
External help - is it allowed? Put your BTYSTE project work towards a Gaisce Award!
It is expected that all or the majority of the work for a project will be conducted either in the school, The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition is now an official Gaisce Challenge Partner. Are you over 15
home or the outside environment. Understandably, some projects may involve visiting distant and taking part in BTYTSE this year? Does your school, or an organisation you’re involved with, offer Gaisce
locations. – The President’s Award? Make the most of your BTYSTE project work by putting it towards the Personal
Students may seek advice or information about their project from sources beyond their school, such Skills challenge area, one of four areas you will undertake as part of the Gaisce programme.
as on the web, government organisations, universities, institutes of technology or other experts. Gaisce is a personal development programme for young people aged 15—25 that encourages you to find
However, it is recommended that the majority of students’ work should be conducted under the your passion, get active and make a difference in your community!
supervision of their relevant teachers with, where appropriate, suitable levels of involvement by
parents, guardians or other responsible adults. For further information, visit www.gaisce.ie/btyste or ask the President’s Award Leader (PAL) at your
school.
Where experimental/research work is conducted by the students themselves, or on their behalf, in a
laboratory that is external to their school (e.g. in a local university, a hospital or an industry) then that
work should be clearly identified and acknowledged within the project report book and presentation.
In addition, it is a requirement that a cover letter from the external facility, describing the extent of
the assistance provided and the work done by the students within that facility or undertaken on their
behalf, will be included in the project report book.
BTYSTE < Contents www.btyoungscientist.com 23Funding
Accommodation grant scheme Fundraising hints and tips
The BT accommodation grant scheme, which was first introduced in 2006, is designed to help with the All schools, not just those outside the 70km / 44 miles grant zone, might want to consider raising some
accommodation costs incurred by students from schools that have to travel considerable distances to extra cash to help pay for teacher cover, travel and even spending money.
compete in the event in Dublin. These costs can prove to be an obstacle to many and can be the real In our experience, schools that raise a little bit of extra
reason why some students choose not to enter a project into the competition. money have a much more relaxing experience at the event,
This grant scheme underlines BT’s commitment to making the exhibition accessible to schools from all not having to stress about how much things cost, or how
parts of Ireland. much they have spent getting there.
Schools eligible for a grant It really should be all about the experience of attending and
taking part. A few fundraising ideas we know have worked
may be awarded either... for many schools over the years include sponsored walks, car
boot sales etc.
You might even want to think about approaching local
companies, especially those in the industrial or technology
sector, to ask them for a lump sum sponsorship. They can
then use this partnership to get positive PR in local
newspapers.
70 kilometres /
€150/ £135 €300/ £270 44 miles*
for an individual entry for a group entry or more from the
RDS Showgrounds,
MAXIMUM €1500/ £1350
Ballsbridge, Dublin 4
Subsidised ‘healthy option’
per school lunches for students
A ‘healthy option’ meal menu will again be available in the RDS exhibition
For full terms and conditions, see the Rules halls at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018.
section on page 34, 4.1 - 4.9. Participating students will be supplied with a €4 voucher for each
full day they are at the exhibition. These vouchers can be used in part
To be considered for the grant scheme please check
payment for one of the delicious meals on the Young Scientist ‘healthy
the appropriate box in the teachers’ area of the
option’ menu.
online application. Grants will not be awarded
unless they are applied for at the time of entry. *as measured by www.aaireland.ie/routes_beta/
24 BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2018 < ContentsYou can also read
