Format for an Extended Experimental Investigation Report

Sub Description
Heading
Title Use an appropriate title that describes the experiment
Abstract Summarise the background information, method (explaining what you did),
results (which result was best + which was worst) and conclusion. (150-200
words)
Contents Page List each section of the report and the page number it can be found on.
Introduction The problem, focus question or reason for the report is stated and relevant
researched information on this topic is included. In general it should include:
1. What is the question to be investigated? What is the experiment about?
2. What is the basic theory of this subject area? What have other researchers
found out about this subject?
3. What is the hypothesis to be tested? What are the possible outcomes of the
experiment?
4. How does your experiment compare with previous experiments done in that
area (is it going to confirm a current hypothesis, apply a method to other
subjects)?
5. Why is the subject important? How is it relevant to society or to a particular
community? (Present data to support your arguments).
*The introduction will include in-text referencing
Practical write Each practical must include:
up Aim- To determine/investigate..
Hypothesis If then because statement, a prediction and why you think this
will happen.
Variables- Independent variable (IV), dependant variable (DV) and control
variables
Risk assessment use a table with the sub- headings: Hazard, prevention,
management to record your safety information.
Equipment- List all equipment. Draw a labelled scientific diagram of the
equipment setup that. Digital photographs can also be used.
Method Numbered steps which describes how you did the experiment.
Past tense starting with a noun followed by a verb (Passive Voice) e.g. The
beaker was placed on the tripod.
Results Tables to present data collected during the experiment.
Label the table, put in all raw and quantitative data. Use correct units
Calculate: Averages, Observations (Qualitative data) can also be recorded.
Graphs of results( if possible) the independent variable is always on the x
axis
Photographs can also be used.
Analysis/Discu This includes an analysis and discussion of all practical results.
ssion 1. Which result was best and which was worst? Use theory to help explain
these results cite data from the results table to support your statements
2. Comment on and explain the results.cite data and link to info from the
introduction E.g. As seen in the graph, the water took 5 mins 23 seconds to
boil
3. Discuss any patterns and trends. Are the results on your graph going up or
down? Getting shorter or longer? etc.
4. Complete any relevant calculations. E.g. %s (you could calculate what
percentage one measurement is larger than another)
*Any information used from the introduction to explain the results should have
in-text referencing
Evaluation This will include an evaluation of each experiments validity.
1. What errors occurred during the experiment? Which variables were not well
controlled? Explain what effect each of these could have on the results.
2. Where could the accuracy of the experiment be improved?
3. Any ideas for future experiments?
Conclusion State concisely (1 or 2 sentences) what you have found out or shown in the
experiment and link back to the hypothesis e.g. The hypothesis was correct. The red
bananas increased the heart rate. Give an indication as to whether or not the
hypothesis was supported.
Bibliography List all resources and references. APA style as out lined in your diary.