AP Biology format for Lab Report

General Information: Unless you are instructed otherwise, all lab exercises are to be recorded in a hardback composition notebook, no exceptions. If there is an instructional handout prior to the lab, you may record your data, etc. there and then later transfer that information to your lab composition notebook. All graphs require either the composition notebook to be marked for graphing (containing grid lines) or to paste in graph paper for the required graphs. Reminder: Labs turned in late will not be accepted.

Grading: Labs will be worth 100 points each. If you follow the format outlined below, and provide thoughtful answers you should expect to receive an “A”.

Format: (for ALL lab reports: Please label each section. Do NOT number sections)

Title, date, and partners’ names. (3pts)

Hypothesis. To be written in an, “IF ….. THEN …..” statement. (The hypothesis should

clearly reflect the procedure, data, and analysis)(7pts)

Procedure. If there was a handout with a written procedure it should be summarized.

Be sure to write in 3rd person (NO “I “ or “Mary poured 3ml of the liquid

into the beaker”, but say “Pour 3ml of liquid into the beaker”. You must

use complete sentences. You must identify the independent and dependent

variables. You must include a schematic diagram if it is appropriate and label

all the parts.(20pts)

Results/Data. Data must be in a data table (including title, grid lines, column headings

with appropriate units, correct and consistent significant digits).(10pts)

Analysis. This is the ‘heart and soul’ of your lab. Skimping on this part of the report

will cost you the most points!(50pts)

A. Graphs. Size – ½ - 1pg with Title, X and Y axes labeled including units,

clearly indicated data points, supply a complete & accurate key if

necessary.

B. Calculations. Indicate all equations/formulas used. Show a set up for each

formula that contains explicit values used from data, Show any steps

(and numbered) involved with appropriate units.

C. Questions/Discussion. Answer any questions given in the lab handout in

complete sentences and showing great insight (Not ‘The lab went

well. Our data proves it’ but ‘The lab proved that … happened because

the data (listed by you) corroborates these findings as shown by the

calculations’)

Conclusion a) How does your data support or refute your hypothesis?(10pts)

b) How is this information useful to scientists and the population at large?

c)In what ways does this lab fit with this unit?