Biology Lab Report Format

5% TITLE & DATE: The title of the lab report should be simple and obvious, telling the reader what
was studied or investigated in the lab. Write the lab name at the top of the page on the right side and
the date on the left side.

5% PROBLEM: Write the scientific problem we are investigating in this lab. It should be written as a
question and be as specific as possible.

10% HYPOTHESIS: This statement is a possible explanation for a set of observations or answer to a
scientific question. It is bases on observations and previous knowledge or experience. Do not use any
personal pronouns (I, We, etc.); rather, keep this in third-person format.

10% MATERIALS: This is a list of all materials used in the lab. It is written in a vertical column
without commas. To save space, you may use more than one column (space appropriately).

10% PROCEDURE: This is a detailed step-by-step account of the tasks performed to run the
experiment, with specific directions on how each of the above listed materials were used. Each step
should begin with an action word (verb). For example, Pour 15 mL of water in to the 100 mL beaker.
Reading the procedures should allow anyone to duplicate the experiment. Write in numbered list form,
like directions for a recipe.

20% DATA/OBSERVATIONS: This section must include all of the raw quantitative (numerical) data
collected (temp, mass, volume, etc.) and any qualitative (descriptive) observations made (changes in
color, etc.). All data recorded should be in neat and well-organized tables. Important: Be sure to
identify your independent, dependent, and controlled variables!!!!

20% DATA ANALYSIS: This section contains any calculations and graphs to show relationships
between the data collected. Make certain that your graphs have correct ranges, are properly labeled
(title, label x & y axis), and indicate the units used. The independent variable is placed on the x-axis
(horizontal), and the dependent variable is placed on the y-axis (vertical).

20% CONCLUSIONS: This section is written in paragraph form. It is a summary of the investigation
and its significant findings. The following questions should be addressed:
*What can be determined from your data analysis?
*Did the data support the hypothesis?
*Do you accept or reject your hypothesis based on the data?
*What are some possible explanations for data that did not support the hypothesis?
*What part of the lab is most likely responsible for the most experimental error & why?
* What further study could be done on this topic?

FOR ALL SECTIONS:

Be sure to clearly indicate the heading.
Draw all lines for charts/graphs/etc with a ruler.
Use third person format (no I, We or You).
Check spelling and grammar carefully.