Preparing Lab Reports
· Lab reports must be typed and single spaced for each section.
· All students will write individual lab reports unless told otherwise.
· Follow the format outlined on this page.
· Complete sentences and correct spelling is required. Use 12 point font.
________________________________________________
Student #1
Student #2
(Student #3)
I. Title: exact title of lab - not lab #
II. Purpose: Write 2-3 sentence on what you are trying to find out in this experiment. Why are you doing this experiment? What are you setting out to do?
III. Procedure: List the steps you will take in the process of completing this experiment. Be specific and thorough. Note any changes as specified by the teacher.
IV. Data: List all data. Make a chart with your word processor so that it is neatly organized. Make sure your chart is labeled properly.
V. Observations: Record all observations. This would include things that you see (ie. color changes, vapor, bubbles, etc.), smell, hear or feel. I want descriptive observations - don't just tell me it turned green, I want to know that it turned emerald green and was cloudy.
VI. Calculations: Show all work for calculations. Include equations, units and significant figures.
VII. Graph: Include a computer generated graph to display data (if applicable.) The graph should have both axes labeled, units, title, data points and a hand drawn line. If you do not have access to a computer, graph paper should be used. NO CREDIT will be issued for graphs drawn on notebook or printer paper.
VIII. Questions: Answer all questions at the end of the lab. Answer any questions as given by the teacher.
IX. Conclusion: Prepare a one-paragraph conclusion that wraps up the results of your experiment. It should describe what you found and should include percent error if possible and an analysis of whether your results were accurate or precise if these two terms apply. Did your conclusion support what your purpose was? If your error is large, what are some possible sources of error? How could you have improved your lab experiment?