ADV. BIOLOGY

Download this document on the way in which I would like for you to complete your lab reports.

WRITING LAB REPORTS In a lab book

Rules For Writing Lab Reports 

Formal, Full Lab Reports:  

Pre-lab - to be done before you may do the activity. Heading of Lab Report            NamePartners NamesDate of Experiment 

1. Center and underline the TITLE, which tells what the lab is about.
2. Briefly state the PURPOSE of the activity.
3. Write the BACKGROUND section in paragraph form. Give enough information so that someone with a similar scientific background can understand the purpose and procedure of the lab without asking questions. Include necessary definitions, techniques, formulas, reactions, and a reference (with author, title, and date). State your HYPOTHESIS, which has been developed by the question you are considering and its predicted solution.

1. List in columns the EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS to be used.
2. Give all necessary SAFETY precautions.
3. Tell of the proper WASTE DISPOSAL for the activity.
4. Write the PROCEDURE concisely in numbered steps. The procedure should be short, but specific enough that someone else can do exactly the same thing you do by following the written procedure without having to ask questions.

1. Make a DATA TABLE as needed. This will be for recording facts only (include title and units).

Data is to be Recorded During Lab: Record observations and measurements as the experimentation is done. Record them directly into your log book. 

1. Post Lab ANALYSIS: (to be done after experimentation is completed)

Summarize any data trends that you find. If your lab includes questions, rephrase the question in your answer and answer in complete sentences.  

1. Interpret your lab results in your CONCLUSION. Support the interpretation with data.

Check to see if your results support or refute your hypothesis and state this in clear, complete sentences.  

1. List the possible sources of error. Sloppy technique is NOT considered an acceptable source of error.

Textbook Lab Report

1.      Heading of lab report Title, date

2.      List the objectives of the activity.

3.      List the materials used.

4.      Summarize the procedure.

5.      Record data.

6.      Answer any analysis and conclusion questions (in complete sentences).

7.      Answer extension questions in complete sentences IF they are assigned.  

Minute Lab Report

1.      Heading of lab report Title, date

2.      State the purpose of the activity.

3.      Briefly summarize the activity.

4.      Record any data taken.

5.      State what was learned from the activity.  

Observations/Demo Reports

1.      Heading of lab reportDescriptive Title, date of demonstration

2.      Observations – all observations written (may be in phrases or brief statements)

3.      Explanation – Write your explanation with evidence (if logical you earn the points)

4.      Conclusion – Write the “true” explanation presented by instructor Include purpose of demonstration and how it relates to class to