SENECA LAKE LAB REPORT

Introduction:  While on the boat there was 3 different groups. Out of the three groups one measured plankton samples, Dredge samples, and chlorine consitration pl
Research Question:  A detailed and FOCUSED research question including what will be measured and what will be changed (stating your independent and dependent variables).
Hypothesis:  This is your prediction of what you will find from your experiment, so state it clearly.  Then support your prediction with scientific theory, including references to your background sources.
Variable Identification:  Include a table that lists controlled variables and how you controlled them (should be as comprehensive as possible).
Controlled Variable Method to control the variable


Experimental Setup :  Write a paragraph that describes where the experiment was performed, and what materials were used (use a passive voice, no “I” or “we”).  Include a diagram / photo of the experimental set up.  Label it and annotate it with descriptions of how you manipulated/controlled variables.   This photo or diagram should clearly illustrate exactly what you did.
Procedure:  Use numbered steps (like a recipe), and use a passive voice in the past tense.   You should always explain how to change, measure, and control variables; how to collect sufficient data, i.e. include repeats.  Specify what was measured, and what units were used.  After reading this, someone should be able to repeat your experiment and get similar results.
Data:  Include a paragraph that describes all qualitative data (and singular quantitative data) that you collected.  For multiple data readings, include a table with your raw data that follows these guidelines:
* Your raw data should be typed into tables with clear, descriptive titles for each table and headings for each row / column.  Give it an appropriate title.
* Units should not be included in each cell of the table but be summarized in the heading for the column. 
* It is best to present processed data in a separate table with a sample calculation below the table. 

Results :
* Graphs should be of the processed data or should include some processing in them, if that is more appropriate. 
* Graphs should have clear descriptive titles and labeling of the axes with appropriate scales used. 
* Statistical analysis of the data may be necessary and could include simple statistical descriptors such as mean, mode or median.
Discussion:  This should place your experiment in context (including reference to background sources), linking it to scientific knowledge.  This is also where you analyze your data, and explain trends you see in your graphs. What is implied by your results/graphs?  This section should also compare your data with that found in literature and you should cite sources for comparison.  Make sure this section is clear and uses logical reasoning.  Be very descriptive; don’t assume that the reader knows what you mean.
Evaluation:  This should analyze the weaknesses and limitations of your data and method. You must include improvements to the experiment (for each weakness you identified) and possible experimentation that could investigate the research question further.   What could you do to improve your investigation of this research question?  Also, discuss human error.  What mistakes may you have made when controlling variables and recording data?
Conclusion:  This is a relatively concise paragraph that describes whether your data supports your hypothesis.  Do not use the world “prove”.  Your data will not “prove” anything, it will only provide varying degrees of support for your hypothesis.  Make sure you support your statements with direct examples from your data.  Your conclusion needs to be reasonable.  Don’t overstate the degree to which it supports your hypothesis, and definitely do not twist your data to make it fit better with your hypothesis.
References – These should be listed in a standard format such as MLA.