III · Presentation & Defense
Criterion 13 / 20
20%
Ability to Answer Questions
Capacidad de Responder Preguntas
We evaluate how the presenter handles evaluator questions — accuracy, composure, and intellectual honesty.
Scoring Breakdown
5
Excellent
- Answers directly and accurately
- Honest when uncertain ("I don't know, but…")
- Uses data or theory to support answers
- Remains composed under pressure
- Engages critically with challenging questions
4
Good
- Mostly accurate answers
- Handles most questions confidently
- Occasional need to think longer
- Generally clear reasoning
3
Acceptable
- Some questions answered correctly
- Struggles with unexpected or deep questions
- Partially justifies answers
- Occasionally deflects without answering
2
Insufficient
- Most answers incomplete or incorrect
- Avoids difficult questions
- Shows knowledge gaps
- Becomes defensive or nervous
1
Poor
- Cannot answer evaluator questions
- Completely unprepared for Q&A
- Gives unrelated responses
- Shows no understanding of own project
Common Mistakes
- ✘Saying "yes" without actually answering
- ✘Getting defensive when challenged
- ✘Not saying "I don't know" when you genuinely don't
- ✘Giving a different answer than what's in the project
Evaluator Focus
- Accuracy of responses
- Composure under pressure
- Intellectual honesty
- Depth of reasoning
How to Get 5 Points
- ✔Practice Q&A sessions with teachers or peers
- ✔Know your methodology well enough to defend it
- ✔Prepare 10 likely questions in advance
- ✔Practice saying "That's a great question — here's how I'd think about it"
Universal Scoring Scale
1
Poor
2
Insufficient
3
Acceptable
4
Good
5
Excellent
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Criterion 13 of 20