What is the reason for doing the
experiment or what is there to be learned from doing the experiment?
II. HYPOTHESIS:
What "you think" will be the final
outcome of the experiment. This is generally based on prior knowledge or observations. In other words, you are not just pulling this "out of thin air"; you have some logical reason for thinking this. If you have
no prior knowledge of the concept, you will need to do research before making a hypothesis. Also, explain
exactly "why you think this". REMEMBER! There is no right or wrong answer. It's strictly what "you think" and "why you think this".
III. MATERIALS:
A list of equipment and supplies that
will be needed to complete the lab procedure. List the major pieces of equipment first. Example,
microscope, triple beam balance, 1000 mL graduated cylinder, etc. Then list common supplies, such as
string, paper clips, etc. and consumables such as vinegar, baking soda, etc.
IV. PROCEDURE:
The step by step process that is
followed in carrying out the experiment. Preferrably, the steps are sequentially listed in the order
they need to be followed to complete the experiment successfully. Be very exact with each step in
case someone else wants to repeat your procedure. It's like telling someone how to find your house.
The least little mistake or detail left out could be critical to the outcome of the experiment.
Using the safety symbols,
identify any precautions that may need to be followed in completing this experiment.
Identify the variables in the experiment:
Controlled - factors that remain constant throughout the experiment.
Independent - the one factor
that will be manipulated or changed during the experiment.
Dependent -
the variable that becomes altered as a result of the change that was made in the independent
variable.
Scientists record observations
in journals or logs. Observations are never destroyed once recorded.
Observations are of two catergories:
Qualitative - information gathered through the senses such as smell, taste, touch,
hear, shape, etc.
Quantitative - information gathered due to precise
measurements, such as height in cm, width in cm, mass in g, volume in cm3,
density in g/cm3, time in seconds, speed in kph, etc.
Graphs are visual representations of the data
so that it can be easily studied, interpreted, and analyzed. Circle, bar, and line are examples of kinds of graphs.
VI. CONCLUSION:
This is a written summary of what was actually learned from doing the experiment. The conclusion will either support or reject
the proposed hypothesis.
The following is a three paragraph format to follow in
writing an appropriate conclusion. The outline is a guide to help you include the necessary
information. Adhere to ALL writing rules in completing this conclusion.
Treat it as though you were writing a three paragraph essay in
your English class. Elaboration is ALWAYS the key!
INCLUDE THESE "ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS" IN WRITING EACH PARAGRAPH:
Paragraph One:
In your own words describe the purpose of the experiment.
Discuss any new terms that were relevant to understanding and conducting the investigation.
Paragraph Two:
Restate your hypothesis and your reasoning for this prediction.
Summarize the lab procedure.
Explain the setup of the lab, control/variable, etc.
Describe safety precautions.
Paragraph Three
Describe the outcome of the
experiment and how it relates to your hypothesis (supports or rejects).
Refer to your data tables,
graphs, etc. in assessing the data because
actual data from your observations is a "must" in forming a conclusion.
BE VERY
SPECIFIC!
From your analysis, point out certain trends or patterns that
support your conclusion.
In conclusion,
explain exactly what was/was not accomplished or learned from doing the lab.
Give a detailed description
of how you were able to determine the above.
Were there any hidden variables that may have affected the reliability of the data ... explain?
What suggestions could you make to improve the reliability of the data? How relevant or useful was this lab in
your understanding of the current topic or concept.
STUDENT ACTIVITY:
To practice the steps of the "Scientific
Method," choose one of the problems below for the students to investigate:
Does salt water boil at the same rate as fresh water?
Does the length of a pendulum affect the number of cycles per minute?
Which color absorbs the most heat?
What type of insulator will keep a coke the coldest?
How does the height of a ramp affect the speed of a marble?
Scoring Guide
Purpose & Hypotheses
Materials & Procedure
Data Table
Graph
Conclusion
Total Points
15 pts.
15 pts.
20 pts.
20 pts.
30 pts.
100
Percent of Total Points Assessed on The Following Criteria:
100% - ALL Data is complete and accurate
80% - MOST data is complete and accurate, however, a few mistakes were made
50% - SOME mistakes were made, data lacks completeness and/or accuracy
20% - MANY mistakes were made, almost totally incomplete and/or inaccurate
0% - NO attempt was made to complete this section and/or totally inaccurate
