'In class' labs will consist of the student writing a prelab before coming to class, performing the experiment, analyzing the data and writing the conclusion during the class period. 'In class' labs will be submitted to the TA at the end of the class period. 'In class' lab reports must be the work of the individual student except for data collected during the lab period. Group reports are not allowed.
The 20 points for the 'in class' lab reports will be allocated as follows:
Prelab For each 'in class', you must prepare a prelab. To familiarize students with the nomenclature, equipment, and procedures for each lab, students are required to submit a 250 to 350 words summary (prelab) of the lab to be performed. Prelabs must be completed before coming to class. The prelab must be typed. The prelab can not be copied from the lab manual but should be in the student's own words. It must be the work of the individual student. All important concepts, physical principles and laws should be clearly explained. Theoretical information should be clearly explained and its relevance to the experiment clearly defined. In addition, be sure to include your name, your TA's name and the course and section number. The prelab summary will form the introduction to your lab report.
Data Procedure and Analysis: The lab manual has detailed instructions for performing the experiment. As you go through the experiment, you will record data values individually or in tables. You will be ask to do calculations and make graphs. Questions will be ask which you should answer in the provided space. While it is normally not necessary, you may use additional sheets of paper if more space is required. Additional sheets should be clearly labeled and referenced.
Conclusion: The conclusion is where you state whether or not you confirmed the principle being tested and present a thorough description of any relevant errors. Was the objective stated in the purpose section attained? If a physical parameter was measured, what is the value? How does the value compare to the accepted value? What is the 'uncertainty' in your value e.g. percent error? You can use additional paper if the space provided in the manual is insufficient.