Chaminade Chemistry Lab Write-up
Dr. H. W. Wright
Chaminade Chemistry course includes a laboratory that is meant to show the relationship between the concepts of chemistry presented in the lecture, and the behavior of real world materials. Also basic laboratory techniques are learned that students will use in any further laboratory courses. During this course 14 laboratories will be completed. 
You are required to record only in ink (preferably typed) all experimental observations and data/results as they occur. Unless otherwise indicated all Chemistry Lab Write-ups should be done in blue or black ink. Do not use pencil.
The laboratory reports should be concise accounts of your work using your own words, your best English grammar, correct spelling, and complete sentences. These lab reports account for a third of your total class grade and will have a total possible point value of 15 as per the chemistry rubric described in class and on the net at CCPScience.com under Grading Rubric for Chemistry Lab. Reports that are not turned in on time will get -3 points for each class period they are late.
All Labs must include a purpose, hypothesis, materials, procedure, observations, and conclusion. Below I have outlined what each of these sections of the lab write-up is meant to convey. Remember, when writing your lab report, to adhere to ALL writing rules in completing these sections. Express yourself as though you were writing an essay in your English class. Elaboration is ALWAYS the key! INCLUDE THESE "ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS" IN WRITING EACH PARAGRAPH:
I. TITLE
The Title of the experiment should describe the experiment in 5 to 7 words so someone searching on the web or looking in a file could know what your lab is about quickly.
II. PURPOSE:
What is the reason for doing the experiment or what is there to be learned from doing the experiment?
III. 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".
IV. 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.
V. PROCEDURE:
The step-by-step process that is followed in carrying out the experiment. Preferably, 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.
VI. OBSERVATIONS:
Scientists record observations in journals or logs. Observations are never destroyed once recorded. In this case pretend I am blind and you are attempting to relay what you felt saw tasted and heard. Remember that there are two kinds of observations. When giving quantitative information always include the label that goes with the measurement.
Observations are of two categories:
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.
It is often best to organize your data in tables or graphs or in some cases diagrams to convey that which was observed as clearly and precisely as possible
VII. CONCLUSION:
The conclusion is a written summary of what was actually learned from doing the experiment. The conclusion will either support or reject the proposed hypothesis. The conclusion should consist of at least three paragraphs and be a synopsis of what occurred in the experiment ultimately describing what happened and what you learned. If the conclusion is weak pointless and without understanding, I will assume your lab experience was weak, pointless, and without understanding.
Paragraph one of the conclusion:
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 of the conclusion:
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 of the conclusion
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?