Labs
Lab Notebook Entries – (Short Reports)
Labs are an opportunity to demonstrate an understanding of scientific concepts combined with measurement skills. Both are equally important in the laboratory procedure. The majority of the lab reports will be written up according to the outline below. All short reports should be entered into this Lab Notebook. Reports should be the summative effort of those individuals working together during the lab period only.
Day 1: Pre-lab Conversation (Page 1)
Concept - The concept consists of a brief description of the purpose of the study. The concept should also contain a brief review of the relevant theory pertaining to the topic of the lab. Concepts are perhaps the most difficult portion of a lab to write and we will spend some time talking about how to write them effectively.
Preliminary Questions – rewrite and answer the preliminary questions to the best of your ability based on class notes and the concept.
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Day 2: Data, Calculations, and Analysis (Page 2)
Participation – Your participation and completion of the lab will be observed and graded.
Data & Observations - Your data should be collected with precision and accuracy, as well as recorded properly in the data table(s). Significant figures and units must be correct. DO NOT COPY data from another group or individual.
Data Table(s) - Present your data in table form; it should ‘flow’ in terms of sequence of steps. Adhere to the calibrations of the measuring instrument when determining significant figures for your data.
Calculated Data – Calculated data should be recorded in a separate table (from measured data). Adhere to significant figure rules when calculating data.
Analysis - This section contains an analysis of your results. Most data should be presented in graph form. You will have to determine the best graph type. If a known value is given, calculate the % error for your results. If there is no known value, use standard deviation to present your results.
Reasons for Error - In the event of error greater than 5%, attempt to identify the variable(s) that are responsible for the error. Be specific; do not make generalizations.
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Day 3: Discussion
Conclusion - This is your opportunity to explain what you have learned from the lab.
Reread the purpose and consider what you have learned about the topic.
What skills were required on your part to be proficient with the lab?
NOTES:
Short Reports should be completed within 2 class periods after the collection of data.
Lab Notebooks may be assessed with a quiz for a lab grade (25 pts). You will be allowed to use your Lab Notebook for the quiz.
A Formal Lab Report will be written each semester based on one of your short reports (to be announced at a later date); therefore, the quality of your short report will determine the quality of your Formal Lab Report.