Pre-labs are due at the beginning of the weekly laboratory sessions. All work should be done neatly, and must be dated appropriately. The prelab should be attached to the final report for grading.
The purpose of the prelab is to solidify in your mind the goals for the week's laboratory work and clarify any questions in the steps that you are suppose to follow. This will help the laboratory run more efficiently.
There are three (3) components to the prelabs:
1. The madness behind the method. Reference the laboratory handout procedure and include it in your submission. Catalogue the reasons for each step in the procedure, i.e., each solution used, each baking step, etc. If you have described the reason for a step in a previous prelab, you may reference that description rather than retyping it each time. If you do not know why a certain step is performed, note the fact that you do not know, find out from the T.A. or Professor during the lab session, and include it with your Lab Report.
2. Additional work. Complete any additonal prelab assignments/problems given on the lab procedures handout.
Ideally, all laboratory reports are kept in laboratory notebook. Record in your notebook the details of the experiments that you are conducting and keep it neat. Note in particular any deviations from normal procedures (as given to you).
There are three (3) components to the laboratory report:
1. Procedure. Note any changes made to the procedure and the reasons they were made. Also, note any problems or mistakes you encounter.
2. Observations. Include all relevant results from the lab work.
3. Discussion. Include the analysis of your results and any important sources of error.
This is where you should consolidate your knowledge about the subject matter of this laboratory assignment. Answer neatly all questions asked in the lab handout.
LAB REPORT:
Lab report that includes pre-lab, lab and post-lab writeups are due on the date that is posted on the web.
This document was adapted by AGA from one drafted by Teaching Assistant Mike Erickson in 1998.