MYP SCIENCE

LAB REPORT GUIDE

Evaluate the method

and suggest Define variables and
improvements define the problem

Make
Evaluate the hypothesis
hypothesis based on

Criterion B
evidence
Processing Inquiring
Criterion

and and
Evaluating Designing
Explain how
Explain your
to change
data using
and
patterns
measure
variables

Collect raw data, Design clear and

then process safe procedure
and present it with materials

1 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

Based on the MYP experimental cycle from the MYP Science Guide page 14

2 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 LAB REPORTGUIDE
MYPSCIENCE

MYP Science Aims

• cultivate analytical , inquiring
and flexible minds that pose
questions, solve problems,
construct explanantions and
judge arguments
• develop skills to design and
perform investigations,
evaluate evidence and
reach conclusions

How do I scientifically
inquire? The Scientific
Method
INQUIRING AND DESIGNING
Criterion B
The first part of any inquiry will be deciding This part of your process will include:
on what question you will try to answer,
and then how you will answer the question. • Variables (B.iii)
In science you must be very detailed • Defining the Problem (B.i)
BEFORE you do your experiment! • Hypothesis (B.ii)

• Procedure (B.iv)
• Materials (B.iv)

PROCESSING AND EVALUATING improvements.

Criterion C
After you have properly planned your
inquiry and submitted your materials list,
you may conduct your investigation!

You will collect your data, then process it to

create graphs and tables. This will help
you evaluate your hypothesis by finding
patterns in the data. You will finish by
evaluating your method and suggesting

3 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

This part of your process will include:

• Collecting Raw Data (C.i)

• Data Processing (C.i)
• Processed Data Table (C.i)
• Graphing (C.i)
• Patterns (C.ii)

• Evaluating the Hypothesis (C.iii)

• Evaluating the Method (C.iv)
• Suggesting Improvements (C.v)

4 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Inquiring
Variables (B.iii)
Variables are the part of your experiment that you will change and measure. Choosing appropriate
variables will also help you make it a fair test. In a scientific inquiry you will change only one type of
thing, and only measure one type of thing. The rest of the things you could change, you must
actually keep the same!

Independent variable Dependent variable Controlled variables

• the variable you decide • what you will measure • all the things you will keep
to change • make sure it is able the same
• always choose a range to be measured using • make sure you describe
based on research numbers! what they should be, and how
• make sure to include you will make sure they stay
appropriate labels that way!

Defining the Problem (B.i)

When you put your independent and dependent variables together, you can form a question
that you will try to answer through your experiment. Your research question is what you are trying to
answer when you write your conclusion or form your hypothesis. You must also explain why this is a a
problem that needs to be tested.
Research Question Is Testable Includes the independent and dependent
• this means it can be measured variables
• what units will you measure with? • you can write your question in form: How
does the (independent variable) affect the
You don’t already know the answer (dependent variable)?
• if you already know the answer, don’t
waste your time experimenting! Includes an explanation
• if you can easily find the answer on google, • explain how this is related to the topic
then maybe it’s not the best experiment being studied
• explain why it is a relevant question or
Does not try to test too much problem
• it is not too large of an experiment that will • includes scientific evidence or data from
take longer than you have to test, and write up your research
your report

Hypothesis (B.ii)
Your hypothesis is a statement you make BEFORE you do your experiment, that describes what you think
will happen. Our hypotheses are often wrong, and that’s ok! After your experiment you will see if your
data supports or contradicts your hypothesis.

Prediction Evidence Format

• what you think will happen • a description of why you • written in a format like:
• refers to the independent made your prediction “If I (increase/decrease)
and dependent variables • you should use sources such my (independent variable),
as books, magazines, the the (dependent variable)
internet, or other lab reports will (increase/decrease),
and experiments because (reasons with
• make sure to cite your information and citation of
sources! sources).

5 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Designing
Procedure (B.iv)
Your procedure is a very detailed description of what you PLAN to do, not a record of what you
changed. If you change anything, you can discuss it in your EVALUATION. Make sure to write a
procedure that not just you understand, but that is good enough that someone from another school
could do your experiment exactly the way you did!
Clear and easy to follow
• use proper vocabulary Controlled varibles Data
• use the variables in your procedure • make sure you • include how you will
• use the quantities in your materials list describe how you collect your data
• use a numbered list to help others will make sure they • more data is better!
know the steps and the order stay the same as don’t just test once,
• have someone proof read your instructions part of your why not 3, 5, 10, or
and see if it makes sense to them procedure! 20 times?

Materials (B.iv)
The materials you need for your lab are very important. Many students forget to ask for proper
materials, and then cannot complete their lab. It is important that you think through what you will
need, and specifically ask for it before the lab is supposed to start.

Materials Request Be Specific! Quantity

• if you do not make a request • you get what you ask for! • don’t ask for “water” or a
in enough time, you may not • someone else should be “beaker”, but “250ml of
be able to get the materials able to read your list and water” or a “500ml beaker”
you need for your lab go get you everything you • not “salt” but “10g of salt”
• if you’re not sure we have need, if they can’t, then
something...ask! you weren’t specific
enough!

6 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE Process
Collecting Raw Data (C.i)
Raw data is data that you collect in the experiment. Usually we use a table to collect the data if
it is measured. It is also possible to write our observations as sentences, or to take pictures or video
for further evidence.

Do it before the experiment

•
don’t wait until you start the experiment to figure out
how to record your data, do it as part of the plan before you Time Temp #1Temp #2
start (seconds) (C) (C)
Can it be messy?
• as long as you can read it!
• you’ll be doing a final version in your lab report 0 23 23
Where do the variables go?
• independent on the LEFT
• dependent on the RIGHT 30 20 19
No labels in the tables
• DO NOT include labels in the table, only include them in 60 17 16
the title boxes!

Data Processing (C.i)

After you have completed your experiment you will need to process your raw data. Do you need
to find the mean, median, or mode? Maybe a percentage, total, or difference is best? How about a
t-test? It will depend on your data!

No averages! Show your work Explain in words

• find the mean, median, or • include the formulas used • include a few written
mode not the average! • include one example of sentences to explain why
• you may need to find more your processed data for you chose the formula you
than one depending on your each different type of did
data formula you used • don’t just say, “because I
have to process my data”!

Processed Data Table (C.i)

After you have processed your data, you need to present it in a second table. This will be the
table that you use to make your graph, and your conclusion.

New table Smaller table Variables

• create a second table after your data • yes, it is going to be • independent variable
processing section smaller than the raw in the left column
• DO NOT just add a section on to your data table! • dependent variable in
raw data table, it should be a separate • do not include all the right column(s)
table the raw data in the
new table, just the
processed data

7 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 Process
Graphing (C.i)
MYPSCIENCE

Use your processed data to create a graph that

shows the results of your experiment. It should
be neat, including proper titles, and must be the
proper type of graph!

Type of graph
• depends on the type of data your
independent variable produces
• continuous data = line graph or scatter plot
• discreet data = bar or pie chart

Don’t forget to include...

• title
• x and y axis
• axis titles including units
• proper scale of numbers

Computer or hand drawn?

• both are fine, but the computer doesn’t
always make good science graphs,
sometimes it is quicker and easier to draw
them by hand
• hand drawn graphs need to be neat!

Continuous data
• data that could be any number on a
continuum
• starts, changes, stops
• changes over time are usually continuous
• imagine the slope of a hill

Discreet data
• data that has only certain options
• imagine a set of steps
• number of people, shoe size, type of
exercise are all types of discreet data
• whenever you create groups you create
discreet data, i.e. - 0-5minutes,
6-10minutes, 11-15minutes are discreet groups
even though time is usually continuous
• if you want to compare different groups, or Oxygen 20.95
show which group is the largest, then a Argon
vertical line diagram is best Nitrogen
0.93 Other
• if you want to compare parts of a whole, 78.08
0.04
then a pie chart is best

8 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

By Rambo's Revenge (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0] or GFDL, via Wikimedia Commons

P.K.Niyogi at Wikipedia GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Gases of the Air

9 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Process
Patterns (C.ii)
Before evaluating your hypothesis you need to first identify the patterns in the data. Is the dependent
variable increasing or decreasing? Is there a linear relationship, or exponential? How exactly are the
variables related or not related?
Increase, decrease, or Common graph types
constant Relationships between
variables • is this a linear relationship,
• data does not go “up”, it can you represent it with a
increases • direct = both increase, or
both decrease line of best fit?
• data does not go “down”, it
decreases • indirect = they are • is this an exponential
opposite relationship?
• data does not stay the
same, it is constant • do you see a normal
distribution?
• sometimes data does 1, 2, or
all 3 of these at different
points

10 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE Evaluation
Evaluating the Hypothesis (C.iii)
When you evaluate your hypothesis, you will be discussing if it was supported or not. This
should reference your data, graph, and the patterns you found. Make sure to have a very clear statement of your
final conclusion.
Did you prove it?
Data, data, data Research
•
you cannot prove your •
make sure to •
have you found information
hypothesis correct, you can
discuss the data, elsewhere to support your
only support it
actually use numbers ideas? if so, then use a proper
•
make sure to discuss the
with units to discuss citation
data that supports your
your findings
thinking •
refer to the table and graph
to help support your
thoughts

Evaluating the Method (C.iv)

Your method probably wasn’t perfect, that’s ok, as long as you discuss the issues. There are
two types of errors in your method, the first type is reliability. Reliability according to Worthen is
“The measure of how stable, dependable, trustworthy, and consistent a test is in measuring
the same thing each time (1993).

The second type of error in method is validity. Worthen describes a method as being valid in “the
degree to which they accomplish the purpose for which they are being used” (1993).
Meaning, does your method actually measure what you are trying to measure.
Reliability of Method Validity of Method
Consistency
Proper variables
•
did your method allow for a consistent
• make sure your variables are actually the
set of data to be collected, or did the
correct ones to assess what you’re trying to
measurements change because of your
investigate
method?
• if you’re interested in health, is measuring
•
two people measuring the same thing
someone’s weight the most valid
differently is an issue with reliability
measurement, or would BMI be better?
Measuring tools
•
using poor tools to measure may affect Proper tools
reliability • make sure your measurement tool is the
•
counting out loud is not a very reliable way proper way to measure your variable
to measure time, a stopwatch is much more • if you want to measure the change in acidity,
reliable then blue-red litmus paper will not give you a
valid set of data, you may need a pH probe

Suggesting Improvements (C.v)

Now that you have identified areas of reliability and validity that need improvement, make sure to
suggest specific ways to improve on these.
Specific Realistic though! Just don’t suggest using
•
your suggestions •
make sure that your lightsabers!
should be very specific, suggestions are realistic
not “try harder” or “do •
this does not mean
more” that you cannot suggest
using equipment that
we do not have
11 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.
 Research
•
you may need to do
a bit of research to
find suggestions. “I
don’t know” is not
acceptable. Find out!

12 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Rules:
1. Read all procedures and ask questions
if necessary. Follow directions and
class rules.
2. No Food! Never taste or drink
anything in the lab.
3. Absolutely no horseplay. The
consequences will be immediate
removal from the room, no excuses.
4. Treat living things humanely

Lab Safety Procedures!

Attitudes in Science
Safety and Emergency Procedures: Lab Instructions and Clean-up:
1. Always do your best to assure the safety of 1. Make sure that no solids go down the sink
your classmates and yourself. Be aware of drains (sand, dirt, plant parts, etc.).
your surroundings and be careful when you
move around. 2. Shoes are recommended.

2. Wash hands with soap and water 3. Tie back your hair and wear goggles when
after experiments or handling using an open flame or harmful chemicals.
animals.
3. Use common sense!
3. If you catch on fire: stop, drop, and roll.
Know the location of the fire blanket. 4. Wash and put away materials as instructed.
Clean up your work area, washing the table
4. Let your teacher know right away if glass if necessary. No team member leaves until
or anything else breaks. table clean up is finished.
13 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.
MYPSCIENCE LAB REPORT
Name:
Group:
B.ii Independent
variable
Data Range:

i (x axis)

Dependent How will I measure this:

variable
(y axis)

Controlled How will I make sure these stay the same:

variables

Define the Problem

B. How is the , dependent on ?

Hypothesis : What I predict, with support from sources

B.i IF I the

i THEN the will

BECAUSE

Procedure : Step-by-step list of what I will do

B.i
v
Materials : Specific list of what I need, including quantities

14 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE LAB REPORT
C. Raw Data
i

Data Processing : Write the formulas you use, and show a few examples
C.
i

Processed Data Table : A new table with only your processed data

C.
i

Graph : Attach your graph to the back of the lab write-up sheet
Patterns : Explain what your data using words like increase or decrease

C.
i
C.ii

15 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE LAB REPORT
C.ii Evaluating the Hypothesis : Discuss your graph and data to
evaluate if your hypothesis was supported or not.
i

Evaluating the Method &

C.i Suggesting Improvements: Discuss the reliability and validity
of your method, and suggest improvements. (add as many points as you
v need)

C.v Method Significance Improvement

(low, moderate, high)

16 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

Criterion B: Inquiring & Designing
i. outline an appropriate problem or research question to be tested by a scientific investigation MYP 1
ii.outline a testable prediction using scientific reasoning
iii. outline how to manipulate the variables, and outline how data will be
collected iv.design scientific investigations
Level The student is able to:
1-2 i. select a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation
ii. select a testable prediction
iii. state a variable
iv. design a method with limited success.

3-4 i. state a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. state a testable prediction
iii. state how to manipulate the variables, and state how data will be collected
iv. design a safe method in which he or she selects materials and equipment.

5-6 i. state a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. outline a testable prediction
iii. outline how to manipulate the variables, and state how relevant data will be collected
iv. design a complete and safe method in which he or she selects appropriate materials and
equipment.

7-8 i. outline a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. outline a testable prediction using scientific reasoning
iii. outline how to manipulate the variables, and outline how sufficient, relevant data will be collected
iv. design a logical, complete and safe method in which he or she selects appropriate materials and
equipment.

Criterion C: Processing & Evaluating

i. present collected and transformed data
ii. interpret data and outline results using scientific reasoning
iii. discuss the validity of a prediction based on the outcome of the scientific investigation
iv. discuss the validity of the method
v. describe improvements or extensions to the method

Level The student is able to:

1-2 i. collect and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. interpret data
iii. state the validity of a prediction based on the outcome of a scientific investigation, with limited success
iv. state the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation, with limited success
v. state improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation,
with limited success.

3-4 i. correctly collect and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and outline results
iii. state the validity of a prediction based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. state the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. state improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation.

5-6 i. correctly collect, organize and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and outline results using scientific reasoning
iii. outline the validity of a prediction based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. outline the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. outline improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation.

7-8 i. correctly collect, organize, transform and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and outline results using correct scientific reasoning
iii. discuss the validity of a prediction based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. discuss the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. describe improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation.

17 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 Task Specific MYP 1
Clarifications MYP Lab
Report
i. outline an appropriate problem iii. outline how to manipulate the

B or question to be tested by a
scientific investigation
ii. outline a testable prediction
using scientific reasoning
variables, and outline how data will
be collected
iv. design scientific investigations

1-2 I have selected a problem from I have selected a hypothesis I have stated a variable. I have a procedure written
those provided. from those provided. down for my lab.

3-4 I have stated a problem as a My hypothesis is testable. I have stated how to manipulate the My procedures are safe.
research question. independent variable, and stated I have selected the materials I
how to measure the dependent
will need.
variable.

5-6 I have stated a problem as a My hypothesis is testable, and I have given brief details on how to My procedures are safe and
research question that connects with includes my variables. manipulate the independent complete. Someone else could
our topic. variable, and stated how to probably do my lab because I describe
measure the dependent variable to how to collect data.
collect relevant data. I have selected the materials I
will need, including quantities.

7-8 I have given brief details on how my My hypothesis is testable, and I have given brief details on how to My procedures are safe,
problem is connected to the topic includes my variables, with my manipulate the independent complete, and logical. Someone else
we are studying. I have stated the reasons as a ‘because’ statement. variable, how to measure the would have no problem with my lab
problem as a research question. dependent variable to collect because I describe how to work with
relevant data, and how to the variables and collect data.
manipulate the controlled I have selected every material I
variables. will need, including quantities, and I
won’t need to ask for anything on
the day of the lab.

ii. interpret data and

C
iii. discuss the prediction of a
i. present collected and iv. discuss the validity of the v. describe improvements
outline results using based on the outcome of
transformed data the
method or extensions to the
scientific reasoning
scientific investigation method

1-2 I have presented the data I I have attempted to I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have stated how I
collected in my experiment recognize patterns and hypothesis. method. suggest improvement
using tables or graphs. draw conclusions from the to my procedures.
data.

3-4 I have presented the data I I have used knowledge and I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have stated how I
collected in my experiment understanding of science to hypothesis by stating if it method by listing errors suggest improvement
by using the correct type of recognize patterns and has been supported or not, in my procedures and lab to limitations in my
graph, including titles, axis draw conclusions from the based on my data. work. procedures.
labels. data.

5-6 I have organized the data I I have correctly used I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have given brief details of
collected in my experiment knowledge and hypothesis by briefly method by briefly how I suggest
using tables that include understanding of science to mentioning the data to state considering my procedures and improvement to
units in the proper place. My recognize patterns and if I my hypothesis has been lab work. limitations in my
graph is the correct type, draw conclusions from the supported or not, based on procedures.
including titles, axis labels, and data. I have given some my data.
I have used lines of best fit. details of how and the
variables are related.

7-8 I have correctly organized the I have correctly used I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have provided details of
data I collected in my knowledge and hypothesis by method by considering the how I suggest
experiment using tables understanding of science to considering many strengths and limitations of improvement to
that include units in the recognize patterns and possibilities. I have used the my procedures and lab work. I limitations in my
proper place. I have draw conclusions from the data to clearly state if I my have discussed the validity and procedures. These
processed my data using data. I have correctly given hypothesis has been reliability of my methods, and suggestions are realistic and
proper methods and showed some details of how and the supported or not. I use addressed its significance. based on scientific reasoning
examples. My variables are related. scientific reasons and and research.
graph is correct, including sources to help explain my
titles, axis labels, and I have reasons.
used lines of best fit.

18 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

Criterion B: Inquiring & Designing MYP 2-3
i. describe a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation
ii.outline a testable hypothesis and explain it using scientific reasoning
iii.describe how to manipulate the variables, and describe how data will be collected
iv. design scientific investigations

Level The student is able to:

1-2 i. state a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation, with limited success
ii. state a testable hypothesis
iii. state the variables
iv. design a method, with limited success

3-4 i. state a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. outline a testable hypothesis using scientific reasoning
iii. outline how to manipulate the variables, and state how relevant data will be collected
iv. design a safe method in which he or she selects materials and equipment

5-6 i. outline a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. outline and explain a testable hypothesis using scientific reasoning
iii. outline how to manipulate the variables, and outline how sufficient, relevant data will be collected
iv. design a complete and safe method in which he or she selects appropriate materials and equipment

7-8 i. describe a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. outline and explain a testable hypothesis using correct scientific reasoning
iii. describe how to manipulate the variables, and describe how sufficient, relevant data will be collected
iv. design a logical, complete and safe method in which he or she selects appropriate materials and
equipment.

Criterion C: Processing & Evaluating

i. present collected and transformed data
ii.interpret data and describe results using scientific reasoning
iii. discuss the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of the scientific investigation
iv. discuss the validity of the method
v. describe improvements or extensions to the method

Level The student is able to:

1-2 i. collect and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data
iii. state the validity of a hypothesis with limited reference to a scientific investigation
iv. state the validity of the method with limited reference to a scientific investigation
v. state limited improvements or extensions to the method

3-4 i. correctly collect and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and describe results
iii. state the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. state the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. state improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation

5-6 i. correctly collect, organize and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and describe results using scientific reasoning
iii. outline the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. outline the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. outline improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation

7-8 i. correctly collect, organize, transform and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and describe results using correct scientific reasoning
iii. discuss the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. discuss the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. describe improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation.

19 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 Task Specific MYP 2-3
Clarifications MYP Lab
Report
i. describe a problem or question ii. outline a testable hypothesis iii. describe how to manipulate the

B to be tested by a scientific
investigation
and explain it using scientific
reasoning
variables, and describe how data
will be collected
iv. design scientific investigations

1-2 I have stated a problem as a My hypothesis is testable. I have stated the variables. I have a procedure written
research question. down for my lab.

3-4 I have stated a problem as a My hypothesis is testable, and I have given brief details on how to My procedures are safe.
research question that connects with includes my variables. manipulate the independent I have selected the materials I
our topic. variable, and stated how to
will need.
measure the dependent variable to
collect relevant data.

5-6 I have given brief details on how my My hypothesis is testable and I I have given brief details on how to My procedures are safe and
problem is connected to the topic provided details about my manipulate the independent complete. Someone else could
we are studying. I have stated the variables using words like variable, how to measure the probably do my lab because I describe
problem as a research question. ‘increase, decrease, no change’, and I dependent variable to collect how to collect data.
have supported it clearly using relevant data, and how to I have selected the materials I
scientific reasoning in my ‘because’ manipulate the controlled will need, including quantities.
statement. variables.

7-8 I have provided details on a My hypothesis is testable and I I have provided details on how to My procedures are safe,
problem I want to investigate, provide details about my manipulate the independent complete, and logical. Someone else
and how it is connected to the variables using words like variable, how to measure the would have no problem with my lab
topic we are studying. I have ‘increase, decrease, no change’, and I dependent variable to collect because I describe how to work with
stated the problem as a research have supported it clearly using sufficient relevant data, and how to the variables and collect data.
question that includes my correct scientific reasoning in my manipulate all the controlled I have selected every material I
variables. ‘because’ statement. variables. will need, including quantities, and I
won’t need to ask for anything on
the day of the lab.

iii. discuss the validity of a

ii. interpret data and

C i. present collected and

transformed data
describe results using
scientific reasoning
hypothesis based on the
outcome of the scientific
investigation
iv. discuss the validity of the v. describe improvements
method or extensions to the
method

1-2 I have presented the data I I have used knowledge and I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have stated how I
collected in my experiment understanding of science to hypothesis by stating if it method by listing errors. suggest improvement
using tables or graphs. recognize patterns and has been supported or not. to my procedures.
draw conclusions from the
data.

3-4 I have presented the data I I have used knowledge and I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have stated how I
collected in my experiment understanding of science to hypothesis by stating if it method by listing errors suggest improvement
by using the correct type of recognize patterns and has been supported or not, in my procedures and lab to limitations in my
graph, including titles, axis draw conclusions from the based on my data. work. procedures.
labels. data. I have given an account
of the variables.

5-6 I have organized the data I I have correctly used I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have given brief details of
collected in my experiment knowledge and hypothesis by briefly method by briefly how I suggest
using tables that include understanding of science to mentioning the data to state considering my procedures and improvement to
units in the proper place. My recognize patterns and if I my hypothesis has been lab work. limitations in my
graph is the correct type, draw conclusions from the supported or not, based on procedures.
including titles, axis labels, and data. I have given an account my data.
I have used lines of best fit. of how and why the
variables are related.

20 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

7-8 I have correctly organized the I have correctly used I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have provided details of
data I collected in my knowledge and hypothesis by method by considering the how I suggest
experiment using tables understanding of science to considering many strengths and limitations of improvement to
that include units in the recognize patterns and possibilities. I have used the my procedures and lab work. I limitations in my
proper place. I have draw conclusions from the data to clearly state if I my have discussed the validity and procedures. These
processed my data using data. I have correctly given an hypothesis has been reliability of my methods, and suggestions are realistic and
proper methods and showed account of how and why the supported or not. I use addressed its significance. based on scientific reasoning
examples. My variables are related. scientific reasons and and research.
graph is correct, including sources to help explain my
titles, axis labels, and I have reasons.
used lines of best fit.

21 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

Criterion B: Inquiring & Designing MYP 4-5
i. explain a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation
ii.formulate a testable hypothesis and explain it using scientific reasoning
iii.explain how to manipulate the variables, and explain how data will be collected
iv. design scientific investigations

Level The student is able to:

1-2 i. state a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation
ii. outline a testable hypothesis
iii. outline the variables
iv. design a method, with limited success

3-4 i. outline a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. formulate a testable hypothesis using scientific reasoning
iii. outline how to manipulate the variables, and outline how relevant data will be collected
iv. design a safe method in which he or she selects materials and equipment

5-6 i. describe a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. formulate and explain a testable hypothesis using scientific reasoning
iii. describe how to manipulate the variables, and describe how sufficient, relevant data will be collected
iv. design a complete and safe method in which he or she selects appropriate materials and equipment

7-8 i. explain a problem or question to be tested by a scientific investigation

ii. formulate and explain a testable hypothesis using correct scientific reasoning
iii. explain how to manipulate the variables, and explain how sufficient, relevant data will be collected
iv. design a logical, complete and safe method in which he or she selects appropriate materials and
equipment

Criterion C: Processing & Evaluating

i. present collected and transformed data
ii.interpret data and explain results using scientific reasoning
iii.evaluate the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of the scientific investigation
iv. evaluate the validity of the method
v. explain improvements or extensions to the method

Level The student is able to:

1-2 i. collect and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data
iii. state the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. state the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. state improvements or extensions to the method

3-4 i. correctly collect and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and explain results
iii. outline the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. outline the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. outline improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation

5-6 i. correctly collect, organize and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and explain results using scientific reasoning
iii. discuss the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. discuss the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. describe improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation

7-8 i. correctly collect, organize, transform and present data in numerical and/or visual forms
ii. accurately interpret data and explain results using correct scientific reasoning
iii. evaluate the validity of a hypothesis based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
iv. evaluate the validity of the method based on the outcome of a scientific investigation
v. explain improvements or extensions to the method that would benefit the scientific investigation

22 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 Task Specific
Clarifications MYP Lab MYP 4-5
Report
i. explain a problem or question to ii. formulate a testable hypothesis iii. explain how to manipulate the

B be tested by a scientific
investigation
and explain it using scientific
reasoning
variables, and explain how data
will be collected
iv. design scientific investigations

1-2 I have stated a problem as a My hypothesis is testable. I have given brief details on the I have a procedure written
research question that connects with variables. down for my lab.
our topic.

3-4 I have given brief details on how my My hypothesis is testable, and I have given brief details on how to My procedures are safe.
problem is connected to the topic includes my variables. manipulate the independent I have selected the materials I
we are studying. I have stated the variable, how to measure the
will need.
problem as a research question. dependent variable to collect
relevant data, and how to
manipulate the controlled
variables.

5-6 I have provided details on a My hypothesis is testable and I I have provided details on how to My procedures are safe and
problem I want to investigate, provided details about my manipulate the independent complete. Someone else could
and how it is connected to the variables using words like variable, how to measure the probably do my lab because I describe
topic we are studying. I have ‘increase, decrease, no change’, and I dependent variable to collect how to collect data.
stated the problem as a research have supported it clearly using sufficient relevant data, and how to I have selected the materials I
question that includes my scientific reasoning in my ‘because’ manipulate all the controlled will need, including quantities.
variables. statement. variables.

7-8 I have given a detailed account of a My hypothesis is testable and I I have given a detailed account of My procedures are safe,
problem I want to investigate provide details about my how to manipulate the independent complete, and logical. Someone else
using scientific facts and sources, and variables using words like variable, how to measure the would have no problem with my lab
how it is connected to the topic we ‘increase, decrease, no change’, and I dependent variable to collect because I describe how to work with
are studying. I have stated the have supported it clearly using sufficient relevant data, and how to the variables and collect data.
problem as a research question that correct scientific reasoning in my manipulate all the controlled I have selected every material I
includes my variables. ‘because’ statement. variables. will need, including quantities, and I
won’t need to ask for anything on
the day of the lab.

ii. interpret data and explain

C
iii. evaluate the validity of a
i. present collected and iv. evaluate the validity of v. explain improvements or
results using scientific hypothesis based on the
transformed data outcome of an investigation
the method extensions to the method
reasoning
I have presented the data I I have used knowledge and I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have stated how I
1-2 collected in my experiment understanding of science to hypothesis by stating if it method by listing errors suggest
using tables or graphs. recognize patterns and has been supported or not, in my procedures and lab improvement to
draw conclusions from the based on my data. work. limitations in my
data. procedures.
I have presented the data I I have used knowledge and I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have given brief details of
3-4 collected in my experiment understanding of science to method by briefly how I suggest
hypothesis by briefly
by using the correct type of recognize patterns and mentioning the data to state considering my procedures improvement to
graph, including titles, axis draw conclusions from the if I my hypothesis has been and lab work. limitations in my
labels. data. I have given an supported or not, based on procedures.
account of how and why the my data.
variables are related.
I have organized the data I I have correctly used I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have provided details of
5-6 collected in my experiment knowledge and hypothesis by method by considering how I suggest
using tables that include understanding of science to considering many the strengths and improvement to
units in the proper place. My recognize patterns and possibilities. I have used the limitations of my limitations in my
graph is the correct type, draw conclusions from the data to clearly state if I my procedures and lab work. I procedures. These
including titles, axis labels, and I data. I have given a detailed hypothesis has been have discussed the validity suggestions are realistic
have used lines of best fit. account of how and why the supported or not. I use and reliability of my and based on scientific
variables are related. scientific reasons and sources methods, and addressed its reasoning and research.
to help explain my reasons. significance.

I have correctly organized the I have correctly used I have evaluated my I have evaluated my I have given a detailed
7-8 data I collected in my knowledge and hypothesis by weighing method by weighing up account of how I suggest
experiment using tables understanding of science to up the strengths and the strengths and improvements to
that include units in the recognize patterns and limitations of the data I limitations of my specific limitations in my
collected, and have used the procedures and lab work. I procedures. These
proper place. I have draw conclusions from the
data to clearly state if I my have specifically discussed suggestions are realistic and
processed my data using data. I have correctly given hypothesis has been the validity and reliability of based on scientific reasoning
proper methods and showed a detailed account of how supported or not. I use my methods in the table and and research.
and why the variables are scientific reasons and sources addressed its significance.
examples. My graph is
related. to help explain my reasons.
correct, including titles, axis

23 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 labels, and I have used lines of
best fit.

24 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE

25 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 TEACHERGUIDE
MYPSCIENCE

Thank you to the following MYP

teachers who have helped this
guide evolve over the years.
• Park Eason
• Chris Briner
• Elizabeth Lee
• Stephen Taylor

How do I use this guide?

Supporting The Scientific Method
WITH STUDENTS RATIONALE
I always print out a paper copy and give it
This guide is based on the assumption that
to the students at the beginning of each
there is no reason all DP students cannot
year (pages 1-12, plus the grade specific
earn full marks on their labs. As MYP
rubrics). I also post a digital copy for
teachers it’s our job to make sure they
students to access all year. We go back to
enter the DP ready to go! That means more
the guide over and over when working on
focus on skills, less on cramming content.
labs.
It takes a long time in MYP 1, but by MYP 5
they are writing labs that would have put
In MYP 1 I print out the lab report template me to shame in university!
page by page, and on the reverse side I
copy the section we are focusing on
PRINTING
(variables, pattern, improvements, etc).
The pages that follow are designed to be
copied to the back of a lab report template.
In MYP 2-3, I give students a digital The idea being that if you are focusing on
template to work from. In MYP 4-5, word
hypotheses, then you could hand out the
process themselves and can tweak the
first page of the lab report template with
format to suit their labs.
only the hypothesis section copied to the
back.

Works Cited
IBO. (2014). Middle Years Programme. Sciences Guide. Cardiff.

Worthen, B. R., Borg, W. R., and White, K. R. (1993). Measurement and evaluation in the school. NY: Longman.

26 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Inquiring
Variables (B.iii)
Variables are the part of your experiment that you will change and measure. Choosing appropriate
variables will also help you make it a fair test. In a scientific inquiry you will change only one type of
thing, and only measure one type of thing. The rest of the things you could change, you must
actually keep the same!

Independent variable Dependent variable Controlled variables

• the variable you decide • what you will measure • all the things you will keep
to change • make sure it is able the same
• always choose a range to be measured using • make sure you describe
based on research numbers! what they should be, and how
• make sure to include you will make sure they stay
appropriate labels that way!

27 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Inquiring
Defining the Problem (B.i)
When you put your independent and dependent variables together, you can form a question
that you will try to answer through your experiment. Your research question is what you are trying to
answer when you write your conclusion or form your hypothesis. You must also explain why this is a a
problem that needs to be tested.
Research Question Is Testable Includes the independent and dependent
• this means it can be measured variables
• what units will you measure with? • you can write your question in form: How
does the (independent variable) affect the
You don’t already know the answer (dependent variable)?
• if you already know the answer, don’t
waste your time experimenting! Includes an explanation
• if you can easily find the answer on google, • explain how this is related to the topic
then maybe it’s not the best experiment being studied
• explain why it is a relevant question or
Does not try to test too much problem
• it is not too large of an experiment that will • includes scientific evidence or data from
take longer than you have to test, and write up your research
your report

28 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE Inquiring
Hypothesis (B.ii)
Your hypothesis is a statement you make BEFORE you do your experiment, that describes what
you think will happen. Our hypotheses are often wrong, and that’s ok! After your experiment you will
see if your data supports or contradicts your hypothesis.

Prediction Evidence Format

• what you think will happen • a description of why you • written in a format like:
• refers to the independent made your prediction “If I (increase/decrease)
and dependent variables • you should use sources such my (independent variable),
as books, magazines, the the (dependent variable)
internet, or other lab reports will (increase/decrease),
and experiments because (reasons with
• make sure to cite your information and citation of
sources! sources).

29 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Designing
Procedure (B.iv)
Your procedure is a very detailed description of what you PLAN to do, not a record of what you
changed. If you change anything, you can discuss it in your EVALUATION. Make sure to write a
procedure that not just you understand, but that is good enough that someone from another school
could do your experiment exactly the way you did!
Clear and easy to follow
• use proper vocabulary Controlled varibles Data
• use the variables in your procedure • make sure you • include how you will
• use the quantities in your materials list describe how you collect your data
• use a numbered list to help others will make sure they • more data is better!
know the steps and the order stay the same as don’t just test once,
• have someone proof read your instructions part of your why not 3, 5, 10, or
and see if it makes sense to them procedure! 20 times?

30 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE Designing
Materials (B.iv)
The materials you need for your lab are very important. Many students forget to ask for proper
materials, and then cannot complete their lab. It is important that you think through what you will
need, and specifically ask for it before the lab is supposed to start.

Materials Request Be Specific! Quantity

• if you do not make a request • you get what you ask for! • don’t ask for “water” or a
in enough time, you may not • someone else should be “beaker”, but “250ml of
be able to get the materials able to read your list and water” or a “500ml beaker”
you need for your lab go get you everything you • not “salt” but “10g of salt”
• if you’re not sure we have need, if they can’t, then
something...ask! you weren’t specific
enough!

31 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE Process
Collecting Raw Data (C.i)
Raw data is data that you collect in the experiment. Usually we use a table to collect the data if
it is measured. It is also possible to write our observations as sentences, or to take pictures or video
for further evidence.

Do it before the experiment

•
don’t wait until you start the experiment to figure out
how to record your data, do it as part of the plan before you Time Temp #1Temp #2
start (seconds) (C) (C)
Can it be messy?
• as long as you can read it!
• you’ll be doing a final version in your lab report 0 23 23
Where do the variables go?
• independent on the LEFT
• dependent on the RIGHT 30 20 19
No labels in the tables
• DO NOT include labels in the table, only include them in 60 17 16
the title boxes!

32 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Process
Data Processing (C.i)
After you have completed your experiment you will need to process your raw data. Do you need
to find the mean, median, or mode? Maybe a percentage, total, or difference is best? How about a
t-test? It will depend on your data!

No averages! Show your work Explain in words

• find the mean, median, or • include the formulas used • include a few written
mode not the average! • include one example of sentences to explain why
• you may need to find more your processed data for you chose the formula you
than one depending on your each different type of did
data formula you used • don’t just say, “because I
have to process my data”!

33 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Process
Processed Data Table (C.i)
After you have processed your data, you need to present it in a second table. This will be the
table that you use to make your graph, and your conclusion.

New table Smaller table Variables

• create a second table after your data • yes, it is going to be • independent variable
processing section smaller than the raw in the left column
• DO NOT just add a section on to your data table! • dependent variable in
raw data table, it should be a separate • do not include all the right column(s)
table the raw data in the
new table, just the
processed data

34 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

 Process
Graphing (C.i)
MYPSCIENCE

Use your processed data to create a graph that

shows the results of your experiment. It should
be neat, including proper titles, and must be the
proper type of graph!

Type of graph
• depends on the type of data your
independent variable produces
• continuous data = line graph or scatter plot
• discreet data = bar or pie chart

Don’t forget to include...

• title
• x and y axis
• axis titles including units
• proper scale of numbers

Computer or hand drawn?

• both are fine, but the computer doesn’t
always make good science graphs,
sometimes it is quicker and easier to draw
them by hand
• hand drawn graphs need to be neat!

Continuous data
• data that could be any number on a
continuum
• starts, changes, stops
• changes over time are usually continuous
• imagine the slope of a hill

Discreet data
• data that has only certain options
• imagine a set of steps
• number of people, shoe size, type of
exercise are all types of discreet data
• whenever you create groups you create
discreet data, i.e. - 0-5minutes,
6-10minutes, 11-15minutes are discreet groups
even though time is usually continuous
• if you want to compare different groups, or Oxygen 20.95
show which group is the largest, then a Argon
vertical line diagram is best Nitrogen
0.93 Other
• if you want to compare parts of a whole, 78.08
0.04
then a pie chart is best

35 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

By Rambo's Revenge (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0] or GFDL, via Wikimedia Commons

P.K.Niyogi at Wikipedia GFDL or CC-BY-SA-3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Gases of the Air

36 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Process
Patterns (C.ii)
Before evaluating your hypothesis you need to first identify the patterns in the data. Is the dependent
variable increasing or decreasing? Is there a linear relationship, or exponential? How exactly are the
variables related or not related?
Increase, decrease, or Common graph types
constant Relationships between
variables • is this a linear relationship,
• data does not go “up”, it can you represent it with a
increases • direct = both increase, or
both decrease line of best fit?
• data does not go “down”, it
decreases • indirect = they are • is this an exponential
opposite relationship?
• data does not stay the
same, it is constant • do you see a normal
distribution?
• sometimes data does 1, 2, or
all 3 of these at different
points

37 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE Evaluation
Evaluating the Hypothesis (C.iii)
When you evaluate your hypothesis, you will be discussing if it was supported or not. This
should reference your data, graph, and the patterns you found. Make sure to have a very clear statement of your
final conclusion.
Did you prove it?
Data, data, data Research
•
you cannot prove your •
make sure to •
have you found information
hypothesis correct, you can
discuss the data, elsewhere to support your
only support it
actually use numbers ideas? if so, then use a proper
•
make sure to discuss the
with units to discuss citation
data that supports your
your findings
thinking •
refer to the table and graph
to help support your
thoughts

38 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Evaluation
Evaluating the Method (C.iv)
Your method probably wasn’t perfect, that’s ok, as long as you discuss the issues. There are
two types of errors in your method, the first type is reliability. Reliability according to Worthen is
“The measure of how stable, dependable, trustworthy, and consistent a test is in measuring
the same thing each time (1993).

The second type of error in method is validity. Worthen describes a method as being valid in “the
degree to which they accomplish the purpose for which they are being used” (1993).
Meaning, does your method actually measure what you are trying to measure.
Reliability of Method Validity of Method
Consistency
Proper variables
•
did your method allow for a consistent
• make sure your variables are actually the
set of data to be collected, or did the
correct ones to assess what you’re trying to
measurements change because of your
investigate
method?
• if you’re interested in health, is measuring
•
two people measuring the same thing
someone’s weight the most valid
differently is an issue with reliability
measurement, or would BMI be better?
Measuring tools
•
using poor tools to measure may affect Proper tools
reliability • make sure your measurement tool is the
•
counting out loud is not a very reliable way proper way to measure your variable
to measure time, a stopwatch is much more • if you want to measure the change in acidity,
reliable then blue-red litmus paper will not give you a
valid set of data, you may need a pH probe

39 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.

MYPSCIENCE
Evaluation
Suggesting Improvements (C.v)
Now that you have identified areas of reliability and validity that need improvement, make sure to
suggest specific ways to improve on these.
Specific Realistic Research
•
your suggestions •
make sure that your •
you may need to do a bit of
should be very specific, suggestions are realistic research to find suggestions.
not “try harder” or “do •
this does not mean “I don’t know” is not
more” that you cannot suggest acceptable. Find out!
using equipment that
we do not have
though! Just don’t
suggest using
lightsabers!

40 Created by Brian Neises 2014. Acknowledgements on last page.