Formal Laboratory Report Format

AP/IB Chemistry - Mr. Lenczycki

Lab reports are required for chemistry. A specific format is necessary to create a consistent, permanent record. Reinforcement of scientific methods and assessment of communication are the main reasons for using a report.

I. Title – catchy

II. Abstract (A) (if assigned)

• Clearly state the goal, briefly explain the experiment, relate the results,
and draw appropriate conclusions.

• Clearly summarize all elements in one paragraph (word count: ______)

III. Background Information (BI) (if assigned)

• Explanation of observations, information given in class, or other research/information that led you to your question. Include any personal information (why are you doing this experiment?). Cite sources.

• Written in paragraph form.

IV. Design (D)

Question / Hypothesis / Variables

• Define Problem / Research Question

i. Provide a focused problem/question (No Y/N Questions!)

ii. Include factors being studied.

• Formulate Hypothesis

i. Make a single-sentence prediction of outcome of experiment

(no personal references! No “I Think/Believe…”)

ii. Explain rationale for predicted outcome.

• Describe factors to have an effect on experiment

i. Independent Variable

ii. Dependent Variable

iii. Constants

Setup

• List materials/equipment.

• Describe experimental setup. (Labeled diagrams/photos are encouraged)

• Describe steps taken to manage variables.

Method

• Describe in numbered statements the steps that were taken during experiment (mention any adjustments made.)

• Make clear how and what is being measured (include units.)

• If applicable, clearly detail control setup (standard of comparison.)

• Procedure should be sufficiently clear so that anyone can repeat experiment and get the same results.

• Be concise but descriptive.

V. Data Collection and Processing (DCP)

Raw Data

• Observation and record of raw data (usually handwritten and dated.)

• Include both quantitative and qualitative data.

• Include uncertainties and appropriate units.

• Data should be properly presented (ex.- Titled tables/charts.)

Data Processing

• Process data to produce results that can be interpreted.

(ex. – ranges, averages, means, dimensional analysis, percent difference --- include any relevant formulas.)

• Include clearly labeled sample calculations.

Data Presentation

• Appropriate presentation of processed data (ex. - graphs, charts, etc.)

• Include descriptive titles, proper axis labels and units.

• All figures and graphs should have captions (include errors and uncertainties.)

VI. Conclusion and Evaluation (CE)

Conclusion

• Short restatement of purpose of experiment and results.

• Accept or Reject your hypothesis.

• Answer original question in terms of your hypothesis.

• Justify your conclusions with interpretation of processed data. (Include specific examples of findings – ex. – trends, averages, etc.)

• How can this information be applied?

• Detail insights into the experiment.

• Answer any specific questions pertaining to the lab.

• When appropriate, compare results with previous research.

Evaluating Procedure

• Identify and evaluate limitations, weaknesses, or errors of methodology.

• Include specific errors and how those errors may have affected your data and findings --- may include but not be limited to equipment uncertainties.

Improving Investigation

• Recommend specific realistic modifications for future experiments

• Modifications should address weaknesses and limitations discussed in procedure evaluation.

Lab reports should be neat and well organized. Though it is not mandatory that the report be typed, it is highly recommended.