Science Lab

Writing a Science Lab Report

A. Before the Lab:

Before you come to class to do the lab, read all the background information in your workbook and textbook.
Understand the scientific concept. (e.g. Sound waves transfer energy through space and matter.)
Understand the vocabulary. (e.g. Energy is the ability to push or pull on an object.)
Write a one-sentence summary of the purpose of the lab. (e.g. We will demonstrate that sound waves can move salt.)
Write a one-sentence hypothesis. (e.g. I think that that the distance between the sound and the salt will affect the amount of movement; I think that the object used to make the sound will affect the force of the sound wave.)
Identify any variables you might test. (e.g. distance between source and salt; object used to make the sound)

B. Setting up the Lab:

Collect any materials you need, including measuring devices.
Make sure you understand the purpose of the lab.
Choose a recorder who will carefully write down everything that is done during the lab.
Review the procedure you will follow.

C. During the Lab:

Carefully follow the procedure, recording everything that you do, including accurate measurements.
Record in words and illustrations what you observe.
Repeat the procedure to verify your results or alter the procedure to test different variables.
Record everything you do.
Carefully and quietly clean up your materials.
Write all your names on your data sheet and hand it in to your teacher.

D. After the Lab:

Talk to other people in your class to discover what they discovered during the lab.
Record any similarities or differences you discover. Try to account for the differences.
When you receive your data sheet back from the teacher, write up a good copy of your lab.
Use the criteria sheet to make sure you include all the elements of a scientific lab report.

 

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