(*Note to teacher: The first one or two I do together as a class to model what I want. Subsequent lab reports are done for homework.)

Name

Date

Period

Title (try not to be boring)

I. Problem:

What are you trying to find out? There may be more than one. Include principles learned in class that apply.

II. Background Information:

List FIVE things you know about the subject before making your hypothesis.

III. Hypothesis:

a. What is your explanation of the problem?

b. Explain why you think so.

IV. Variables

List all variables that must be controlled in this lab.

V. Materials:

List the materials you will need, in detail.

VI. Procedure:

Write step-by-step directions for how you plan to do both the control and the experiment. (List steps) Summarize the steps taken, with precision, so that someone who has not performed this lab has absolutely no questions about “how much” and “how.”

VII. Results:

All drawings, measurements, averages (if applicable), observations, data tables, calculations, and graphs all go in this section. Labeling and neatness are essential in this section.

OBSERVATIONS: Observations are generally qualitative interpretations of what is occurring during the course of the experiment. Observations should be compiled under the heading “Observations” so that the reader knows what you are trying to do.

DATA: It is important that the data collected during the experiment be properly identified, and that correct numerical values and units are used. All numerical data will be placed in a neat and rulered data table. All columns and rows will be labeled.

GRAPHING OF EXPERIMENTAL DATA: Graphing the results of an experiment involving two variables helps make the relationship between the two variables more obvious. Here are some simple rules:

a. Each square on a graph is equal to the assigned quantity (1 gram, 1.23 liters, 55 days, etc.), but the scale on either axes may be changed if the graph is too compact or needs to expanded. The larger the graph, within reason, the better the graph.

b. It is important to label both the vertical and horizontal axes with the factors being graphed and also to indicate units being used.

c. After the points have been located and marked on the graph, use a straight edge to connect the points. Messy lines really detract from the inner beauty of the graph.

VIII. Conclusion:

How did the results correlate with the hypothesis? Explain 5 new things you learned in this lab and what your next step might be.