Lab Write Ups

Question 1

Heading

Answer 1

Step 1. You need a heading with both variables. It is usually very long. Top right hand corner. Put time of experiment in heading.

Question 2

Lab title

Answer 2

Step 2. Also needs both variables.

Question 3

Purpose

Answer 3

Step 3. Summarizes lab objectives. Includes research question, both variables (IV and DV), the control, and constants.

Question 4

Hypothesis

Answer 4

Step 4. Prediction of how the IV affects the DV. If/then/because statement. Provide your reasoning.

Question 5

Materials and Procedure

Answer 5

Step 5. They must be detailed steps, specific enough for any reader to follow.

Question 6

Do you always need materials and procedure? Why/why not?

Answer 6

No, because usually your lab handout will already have them for you.

Question 7

Data-observations, measurements, and data tables

Answer 7

Step 6. Include observations (color, size, temperature, etc.) and measurements (remember to put the unit-meters, seconds, etc.) recorded in experiment. Use well-labeled data tables w/ IV in the 1st column and DV in subsequent columns.

Question 8

Also about data-repeating trials and graphs

Answer 8

Repeat trials if time allows to average data. Summarize your data in appropriate graphs.

Question 9

Discussion

Answer 9

Step 7. Discuss biological theories of experiment, usually just answering assigned questions. Occasionally, you may need to discuss theories in paragraph format.

Question 10

Conclusion

Answer 10

Step 8. Most important section-summarizes. Does experiment support/not support (don’t say “proves”) your hypothesis and/or lead you to new hypotheses or research questions? Summarize the data to answer your new questions. Include 2-3 errors and improvements along with numbers and data.

Question 11

List the steps in order.

Answer 11

Heading, lab title, purpose, hypothesis, materials and procedure, data, discussion, and conclusion.

Question 12

Other notes

Answer 12

Proper heading on 1st page. Written part in blue/black ink on lined paper or typed (12 font, Arial/New Times, single or double spaced). Drawings=properly titled and labeled, on unlined paper, colored pencil.