Name:

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Peer Editor: ___________________________

IB-SL. Physics.Rubric
Mrs. Roley
Each item will earn a grade of 0-2 inclusive.
Design
Aspect 1 : Defining the problem and selected variables

Background (section with title)
Give a background introduction to explain the theory and concept behind the lab. Include discussion of
concepts as well as relevance to class. (Section with title)
Clearly state the research question. Research questions should be of the form how does y depend on x? This
question should relate the dependent variable being tested to the independent variable being monitored
State the dependant and independent variables. (data being collected in lab)
State the controlled variables. Make sure you account for every other variable that will be held constant.
Hypothesize what will occur in the experiment.
Average

Aspect 2: Controlling variables
Fully describes all of the materials being used in the experiment. Exclude no detail. (section with label)
Draw and label a diagram of the apparatus used in the lab. Digital images are acceptable
Explain how the dependant variable will be measured
Explain how independent variable will be measured and how it will be manipulated or changed
Explain how the controlled variables will be kept constant
Average

Aspect 3: Developing a method for the collection of data
Write a clear method so another student could complete the experiment with no extra verbal advice.
(section with title)
Procedure is written in the past imperfect form. Ex: The car was released, not, I released the car
A good range of data is represented for the dependent variable. State your range.
Average

Data Collection and Processing

Aspect 1: Recording Raw Data
Construct and label a Raw Data table(s) with the independent variable in the far left column. Table is typed with
only one independent and one dependant variable per table.
Each column has a heading that includes units and uncertainty. ( Choose the larger value from the estimated
uncertainty and the calculated uncertainty) [1/2(max-min)
Explain how any estimated uncertainties were arrived at (estimated or calculated) [placed under table]
List values in the data table with no more precision then the uncertainty. Ex: If the uncertainty is 0.2 the
measurement should only be quoted to one decimal place.
Record all data and averages for all repeated measurements.
Average

Peer
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Aspect 2: Processing Raw Data
Construct and label a Calculations table(s), separate from the raw data. Independent variable is listed in the far
left column. Table is typed with only one calculated value and one independent variable per table.
Each column has a heading that includes units and uncertainty.
Record all calculations that must be done with the appropriate significant figures.
Write out one example of each calculation done to the raw data in a separate calculation section below the
processed data
Report all error with each calculated value.
Average

Aspect 3: Presenting Processed Data
Digitally present the processed data in a graph with independent variable on the x axis and dependent variable
on the y axis
Properly title and label graph with units on both axis
Include accurate error bars for both x and y axis if appropriate
Include a best fit line
List equation for best fit line on graph
Linearize data when appropriate
Average

Conclusion and Evaluation
(Completed in three paragraphs)
Aspect1: Conclusion
State what was found in the investigation
State whether your graph supports your hypothesis
State whether the graph is linear. If graph is not linear explain why. Consider removing outliers and re-graphing
if appropriate.
Explain best fit line including explanation of slope, y intercept and give meaning of these as it relates to the data
Average

Aspect 2: Evaluation
State with evidence, whether your conclusion was reasonable or not.
Calculate with uncertainty the slope of the best-fit line. Show calculation.
Compare the slope of best fit line with accepted value when possible (% error calculation)
Discuss the slopes accuracy and uncertainty
Discuss how well you were able to keep the controlled variable(s) constant
Discuss the range of data and the number of repetitions of process. (Include discussion of time management if it
limited you)
Average

Aspect 3: Improving the Investigation
Explain ways of improving the investigation. Limit your discussion to ways to reduce uncertainty.
List possible improvements to the lab and how they would positively affect the results
Discuss modifications to apparatus or method that will positively affect results
Average