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When scientists do an
experiment, it is important that they keep a complete and accurate record
of how they did their experiment, what their results were, and what
conclusions were formed from these results.
In order to do this, they write up a lab report. While you are studying
science at Gig Harbor High School, there will be occasions when it will be
required that you write up a lab report.
The general format and descriptions of sections for writing a laboratory
report supporting the WASL format follows. Labs should typed or written in
blue or black ink.
Background:
(2 points)
 | All
information you know before the experiment through prior knowledge or
research. |
| Goes from
very general about the topic to very specific to your investigation. |
Problem/Purpose Question:
(2 points)
| Be simple,
direct and always in the form of a question |
| Design a
testable question that identifies the manipulated and responding
variables. |
Hypothesis:
(3 points)
| Explain
how the manipulated variable affects the responding variable and give
direction (i.e. faster, slower) |
| Explain
your reasoning. |
| “If / then / because” format. Don't use the words "I think" or "I believe".
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Materials and Procedure:
(8 points)
| Identify
manipulated variable, which is changed by experimenter to obtain
responding results; |
| Identify
responding variable, which responds when the manipulated variable is
changed |
| Identify
at least four controlled variables, which are variables that don't change
in any of the test groups, which increases validity of results |
| Identify
experimental control, which is the non-test group, or standard, to compare
the manipulated results against. |
| Describe
methods by telling exactly what you did to test your manipulated variable.
Brands, amounts, sizes and such details should be included. Use a
step-by-step list or a written paragraph. |
| State
"record data" and “repeat trials for all test groups to further increase
validity” in methods. |
| List all
of the equipment and materials that are needed to perform the experiment.
Include all devices needed to measure the manipulated and responding
variables. |
| Draw a
picture of the apparatus or set-up used. |
Observations and Results:
(4-8 points)
| Display
experimental data clearly in the form of charts, graphs, tables, or
drawings (Depending on lab this bullet will be worth 2-6 points) |
| Include
any observations that might have influenced data. Opinion should not
be included in you observations. |
| Include
proper label and units. |
Conclusions:
(5 points)
| Include
supporting data from tables, graphs, or charts. |
| Explain
HOW your data supports or fails to support your original hypothesis
(This bullet is worth 2 points) |
| Explain
any calculations that you made. |
| Errors
should also be discussed in this section. |
Real World Application:
(3 points)
| Identify
real world application for concepts. |
| Explain
HOW the concepts from the lab apply to your real world application,
what is similar. (This bullet is worth 2 points) |
Recommendations for Designing New Investigations:
(3 points)
| Suggest a
testable question related to this experiment for further investigation. |
| Summarize
how you would go about testing it. (This bullet is worth 2 points) |
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