PHS 110-Writing the Physical Science Lab Report

Labs are the basis for our understanding of the key concepts in science. What follows are the guidelines for success in writing a quality lab report. 1. You should keep all data collected during the lab on loose leaf paper or a computer spreadsheet. 2. All laboratory reports are to be written in pen on loose leaf paper or word-processed. 3. Your name, the name(s) of all members of your laboratory team and the date the investigation was performed is to be written in the upper right hand corner of the first page of each report. 4. An appropriate title for the report should be placed in the center of the first page of the report. 5. Each of the following sections of the laboratory report should be prefaced with the section names. Purpose This is a statement of the problem to be investigated. It provides the overall direction for laboratory investigation and must be addressed in the conclusion. Clearly identify the independent and dependent variables and the overall situation the lab will address. All laboratory apparatus used in the investigation, along with a detailed diagram to illustrate the configuration of the apparatus, should be included in this section. See example at right. The variables to be measured should be clearly pictured, so the reader can clearly understand exactly what and how you made measurements. Sample Diagram:
Notice that the quantities being measured (x and h) are clearly

Apparatus

Procedure

This section should identify and name all experimental variables and briefly describe how the independent variables are controlled. Someone who was not present during the lab should be able to understand how the experiment was performed by reading your procedure. Raw data consists only of those values measured directly from the experimental apparatus. No values obtained by way of mathematical manipulations or interpretations of any kind should be included in this section of the report. Data should consist of as many trials as judgment would indicate necessary (8 by 10 rule, if feasible). The units for physical measurements (kg, m, s, etc.) in a data table should be specified in column heading only. This section should include all graphs, brief analysis of graphs, and post laboratory calculations. State each formula you used for any data manipulation (e.g. averaging, etc), and if necessary, identify the symbols used in the formula. If repetitive calculations are to be performed, substitute only one set of data into each formula and then construct a table of values for all additional calculated values. Be certain that your final calculated values are expressed to the correct number of significant figures. Do not show all of your arithmetic calculations (one sample is sufficient).

Raw Data

Evaluation of Data

KGW-PHS110

Fundamentals of Physical Science

Spring 2013

Conclusion

In the conclusion you must do the following: a) State the relationship between the variables identified in the purpose in a clear, concise English sentence. b) When a mathematical expression can be derived from graphical analysis, write it, making sure to include the appropriate units. State the meaning of the slope and discuss the significance of the y-intercept (when appropriate). c) Describe any new terms that arise as a result of your evaluation of data, or as a result of post-lab class discussion. Clearly explain these terms as an indication that you understand the ideas discussed. d) When your results differ from what is expected, provide a plausible explanation. When possible, calculate the percent difference between any accepted value and the value you obtained in your lab.

PercentDifference =

AcceptedValue ExperimentalValue g (100) AcceptedValue

KGW-PHS110

Fundamentals of Physical Science

Spring 2013

Possible

Laboratory Write-up Checklist (25 pts)

Experiment _______________________Lab Section ___ Group ___

Partners

Format (2 pts) Purpose (1 pts) Apparatus & Procedure (3 pts) Raw Data (4 pts) Evaluation of Data (7 pts)

1. Group names, title, written on one side only 2. Each section clearly labeled, neat & organized 1. Independent and dependent variables are clearly identified 1. Diagram drawn with all components labeled 2. Clear and brief sequence of steps 3. Control of variables 1. 2. 3. 4. Measurements organized into a neat table Values are clearly labeled Multiple trials (Clearly repeatable?) Quality/range (8 by 10 rule when possible)

_____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

1. Table of generate values and sample calculations 2. Graphs a. variables on appropriate axes (use of units) b. quality of results 3. Interpretation of graphs a. statement of graphical relationships b. mathematical representation (derivation of equation, units on slope and vertical intercept value) 1. Written explanation (English sentences) of relationships (must address purpose) 2. Meaning of slope, significance of y-intercept 3. General equation, new terms or concepts 4. Reasonable explanation for divergent results (when applicable)

Conclusion (8 pts)

KGW-PHS110

Fundamentals of Physical Science

Spring 2013

Alternate Lab Checklist (100 points)

_____/5 Format Written in pen on loose leaf paper OR word-processed; names & date included; appropriate title; sections prefaced with the section names. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD _____/5 PurposeBrief statement with independent and dependent variables clearly identified. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD _____/15 Apparatus & Procedure _____/15 Raw Data _____/15 Manipulated Data & Graphs _____/40 Conclusion Materials labeled or listed; diagram drawn if appropriate; procedure identifies and names all experimental variables and describes how the independent variables are controlled. Someone who was not present during the lab is able to understand how the experiment was performed. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD Values measured directly from the experimental apparatus are organized into a NEAT TABLE. Data consists of as wide a range of inputs as possible. Units for physical measurements (kg, m, s, etc.) are specified in column heading only. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD Includes all post laboratory calculations, graphs, and analysis of graphs. Equations (or formulas) matching your graphed data are written, if applicable. Repetitive calculations are performed on only one set of data. Table of values is included for all additional calculated values. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD a) Explains how the variables identified in the purpose are related in clear, concise English sentences. Cites the EVIDENCE from your lab supporting this relationship. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD b) Mathematical expression written with appropriate units (if applicable). Meaning of slope and significance of the intercepts is discussed (when appropriate). If there is no mathematical equation, general trends/shape of your graphical representation is described and its meaning explained. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD c) Clear explanation of key terms or ideas. New scientific terms related to the lab are listed and discussed. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD d) Confidence level about your interpretation of your data is explained. Plausible explanations for things not be quite correct are given. Calculation of percent difference, if applicable. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD _____/5 Mechanics & Grammar Proper grammar is used. Proper mechanics including spelling and capitalization. A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD

KGW-PHS110

Fundamentals of Physical Science

Spring 2013