Science Writing Science World 3/97 pages 10-11

Do not write in this book.

Procedure

A step-by-step plan on how to do the experiment

so that anyone can do the same experiment

exactly as you did it.

How to write a procedure:

1. Imagine yourself doing it --from beginning to end.

2. List all materials needed, including amounts and/or

measurements.

3. Test only ONE independent variable in this experiment.

4. Keep all other variables CONSTANT--the same. Then your

results will be consistent and reliable.

5. Include a control--a test or condition to compare your

experiment to.

6. Do several trials to check results.

7. Review plan for accuracy (correctness), completeness

(all details explained), and safety (eye goggles, glasses, apron,

etc.).

8. Share your procedures with someone who will try to

imagine doing it and who will give suggestions to you.

9. Revise steps or add new ones based on ideas your

partner suggested.

Improvement in Procedure Writing Practice:

Read Procedure A.

Read Procedure B.

Mark beside numbers:

x if changed information

# if added information

What is:

the research question?

the independent variable?

the dependent variable?

constant?

control?

trials?