1. How to Write a Lab Report
Chemistry
Mr. Pickin

2. General notes Should be typed, Write title at top of first page
If hand written, must be legible and in ink or pencil
Use rubric
Use Roman numerals for sections

3. This will include the question or problem which needs to be solved.
I. Purpose/Question
This will include the question or problem
which needs to be solved.
Ex. How does music affect plant growth?

4. II. Background/Research
This section will include research on the topic you are studying. Before you perform an experiment you must know something about the topic. This should be in paragraph form. It does not necessarily require you to use reference materials, but can be prior knowledge. (What do I already know about the topic). Sources should be cited.
Ex: Research how plants grow.

5. III. Hypothesis Must be testable Must be a statement, never a question
Must only include one manipulated variable (independent variable).
No first person pronouns!! (I, we, you etc)
Ex: Plants exposed to music will grow taller. (music is the independent variable, height is dependent)

6. IV. Materials and Equipment
Must be in numbered list form 1. 2. 3.
etc.
Include everything used in experiment
Use correct name for equipment, i.e. pan balance

7. V. Procedure Numbered list form Do not use personal pronouns
Do not use terms: first, next, then etc.
Must be replicable!
Be detailed
If making measurements, always write “record data”

8. VI. Data/Results This is where you present your data, just the facts
May include data tables, graphs etc.
All measurable results are recorded here
Neatness, use labels
Drawing/diagrams where appropriate

9. VII. Data Analysis Calculations (all steps)
This is where you interpret your data
Paragraph form
Cite results from step VI
This is very important since this is the evidence you will use to support your hypothesis

10. VIII. Conclusion Always refer to your hypothesis!
Did you verify the hypothesis? How?
Paragraph form
Mention any problems in performing the experiment
Suggestions for improvement
GSE’s and JHS expectations