Science Lab Report Format (Year 8)
Each individual must write and submit his or her own lab report. Lab reports should be neatly typed in
Google Docs and in font between 10 and 12 points. Rules of conventions should be followed.
Each experiment is different and therefore may require a slightly different lab report. Below is a list of
the possible components of a lab report and the order in which they should be arranged. With each lab,
you will be instructed on which components to include. The components must be in order and labeled!
Title (1 point)
The title of the lab will be provided to you and should be written on the top line of your paper.
Problem Question (1 point) The question is clear, complete, and testable.
Hypothesis (3 points) The hypothesis is written to show a prediction between two variables.
It must be testable.
It should be written in an if…then…because format.
If = independent variable (change), then = dependent variable (measure/ prediction), because = why.
Materials (1 point) All the materials, including quantity, should be listed.
Aligned on the left side.
Procedure (3 points) Lab procedures should be written as instructions for performing the lab.
Write as numbered steps, aligned on the left side.
No personal pronouns; use commands.
Results – Observations and Data: (5 points) You need to record all observations that you make
during the experiment This should be detailed descriptions of what you saw happening during the
experiment. You do not tell why you think something happened, just what you observed. Changes and
patterns should also be recorded. Data is the numerical result of your experiment. Include questions,
and needed tables, graphs, and calculations. Questions should be well written, related to the lab, and
completely answered. Tables, graphs, and diagrams/blueprints must be neatly constructed with straight
lines done with a ruler. You should include titles, labels, and units on all tables, graphs, and diagrams.
Label independent and dependent variables, when appropriate. You may cut out graphs and charts and
neatly glue them onto your paper (no tape). Show any calculation that you performed on the data (be
sure numbers are clearly labeled). Use averages when appropriate. Include multiple trials.
Conclusion (6 points) Conclusions should be at least a paragraph in length and address the following
ideas:
Restate the problem question & hypothesis.
Restate the independent and dependent variables.
Summarize the experimental data. Be sure to include specific data in the conclusion. Explain/analyze
your results. Give meaning to data.
Explain how the hypothesis is either supported or rejected. This is the answer to the original question.
This is where you tell if you hypothesis was correct or not and WHY you have come to that conclusion.
Your answer must be based on the results of the experiment, not on your opinion or what you may have
wanted or expected to happen. reason(s) for error.
Relate the experiment to the real world or develop related new questions.
Total (20 points)
