This lesson explains how to write a lab report that covers all the sections expected in an IGCSE Physics practical assessment.
Structure of a lab report
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Title: State the experiment clearly, e.g., “Investigating how the length of a wire affects its resistance.”
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Aim: One sentence stating what the experiment investigates, e.g., “To investigate the relationship between the length of a constantan wire and its resistance.”
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Variables:
- Independent variable: the variable you change (length of wire)
- Dependent variable: the variable you measure (resistance)
- Control variables: variables kept the same (wire material, wire diameter, temperature)
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Equipment list: Name every piece of apparatus.
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Method: Step-by-step instructions, written in past tense or imperative form. Detailed enough for someone else to repeat the experiment.
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Risk assessment: Identify hazards and precautions. E.g., “Hot wire: switch off the power supply between readings to prevent the wire from overheating.”
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Results table: Ruled table with headings and units. Include repeat measurements and calculated means.
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Graph: Plot the dependent variable against the independent variable. Include a best-fit line.
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Analysis: State the relationship shown by the graph. Calculate any relevant values from the gradient.
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Conclusion: Does the result support the hypothesis? Refer to the data.
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Evaluation: Identify sources of error. Suggest improvements. Assess the reliability of the results.
Key tips
- Use correct scientific vocabulary.
- Be specific about measurements (e.g., “measured the length to the nearest mm using a metre ruler,” not “measured the length”).
- Include units in all column headings and calculated answers.
Need a Plan Based on Actual Work?
A private taught trial can help distinguish whether the repeated difficulty is mainly Physics knowledge, Mathematics, practical reasoning or exam technique before regular lessons are discussed.