AP Lab Report Rubric

IMRaD format 5-4 3 2 1-0

Introduction: Background Introduction is thorough, connecting

the material of the course to the
and Objectives
activity of the lab.
The introduction provides the reader
with key terms.
Appropriate, properly formatted
citations are provided.
The underlying scientific concept of
the lab mentioned and is clearly
explained.

Introduction: Research Research Question is stated

Question/Hypothesis Rationale is provided for question.
Testable Hypothesis is stated and is
justified clearly in an “If...then…”
format specifically predicting the
relationship between dependent and
independent variables that may be
supported or rejected.
Independent and dependent variables
are specific and measurable..
Background research supports the
manipulation of variables and indicates
that manipulation will address the
hypothesis or research question.

Methods: Materials Materials list is complete (according

to lab report guidelines including if
possible size, concentration, and
quantity).
Concentration of chemical reagents
 used (when known), scientific names
of organisms are named, volumes of
apparatus, etc. are provided.

Methods: Procedure Procedure is concisely written using

third person past tense.
There is an acceptable range of
variance in the independent variable.
Constants are clearly identified.
Control group is identified.
Labeled Diagram or photo is
provided.
Validity measures are addressed.
The procedure allows for the
collection of “sufficient relevant data”
The protocol states that data will be
combined (if necessary).
Procedure is safe and ethical.
At least one, properly formatted
citation is provided.

Results: Data Collection Clearly describes how raw data were

calculated and organized for analysis.
Raw data is recorded.
Processed data is recorded.
Both quantitative data and
qualitative data are recorded.
Data adheres to precision guidelines.
Units are present on quantitative
data.
Results: Data Presentation Report includes at least one graph and
two data tables (raw data and
processed data)
All tables, graphs, drawings, and
calculations adhere to lab report
guidelines (titles, labels, units present)
Relevant statistical analysis of data is
demonstrated.
Calculations are clearly demonstrated.
Data are summarized in a clear,
concise, logical manner. Patterns are
identified & described, but no
conclusions drawn.

Discussion: Conclusions Conclusion is based on reasonable

interpretation of data.
Clear connection is made between
hypothesis and data collected.
Clear connection is made between the
lab activity and the understandings of
the course.
Discussion of limitations of the
experiment is provided.
Discussion of unexpected results is
provided (when applicable).
Applicability of the conclusions of this
experiment to other situations is
provided.
Discussion: Experimental Statement of confidence in the
experiment is provided and justified.
Evaluation
Measures to ensure validity are
discussed.
Recommendations for refining the
experiment are provided.
Identification and discussion of
sources of error is provided.
Specific recommendations to address
identified weaknesses are provided.

Suggestions for future avenues of

research are provided.

Overall: Aesthetics Report demonstrates proper spelling,

grammar, and consistent design
considerations (formatting, spacing,
etc.)

Report adheres to APA citation

conventions in-text and in the
reference section.

Report is shared correctly, posted

publicly on course blog correctly, and
posted in a timely fashion.

Lab Notebook Data The quality and accuracy of your

Verification lab data serves as a score
multiplier for your overall grade,
ranging from .9 at the low end, to
1.1 at the high end. In other
words, if you keep poor records, it
can cost you up to 10% of your
total grade earned. Likewise,
keeping exemplary records in
your lab notebook can earn you an
additional 10% on your score.