In-Class Writing: Discussion of Results

Before you begin writing:

• Review your textbook (pp. 40-45) and the class PowerPoints
• Identify the main finding, support, and discrepancy
• Two patterns are possible: Main finding >> Support or Support >> Main Finding
• Remember that the DoR is written in the present tense

Paragraph 1:
• What does the results table show? List only the important sections that you will discuss.
• 2-3 sentences: Support for the main finding
o Are the values consistent in each trial? (Less than 3% from the accepted value)
o Does the average g agree with the accepted value?
• 1-2 sentences: Main Finding
o Remember that the main finding is connected to the Aim.
Paragraph 2:
• Identify a discrepancy (anomaly, error) if it exists.
o Where is the discrepancy? What is the value? Why is it considered a discrepancy?
o What is the reason for the discrepancy?

Useful Vocabulary
anomaly anomalous discrepancy error Therefore
consistent inconsistent determine find agree in agreement with
due to as a result of slightly significantly within approximately
concluded As can be seen in…

Describing Values (_______ value)

accepted standard observed calculated obtained average

In-Class Writing: Conclusion

• Review your textbook (pp. 47-50) or the class PowerPoints
• Summarize the following in one sentence each:
o Aim
o Main finding
o Support
o Discrepancy
 Discussion of Results - 20%
Content
• Reference to the Results
• Clearly stated main finding, related to the Aim 8
• How the main finding was reached: all available support for the MF, including key values
• Specific identification of error in the results, the value, and how it is known as an anomaly
• Explanation of a probable cause for error (may relate to variables in the Introduction)
Organization and readability Must be logical and clear (coherent and cohesive)
Overall order:
1. Reference to the figure 4
2. Main finding followed by support; or support leading to MF
3. Error identification
4. Error explanation
Findings and error in separate paragraphs
Language can include:
• Most verbs in present tense
• Phrases and vocabulary suitable for the discussion 8
• Cause and effect language
• Language of comparison
• Expressions of agreement/disagreement/consistency between data items
• Expressing possibility e.g. with modal verbs
Conclusion - 15%
Content:
Restatement of: 6
• Main finding
• key support for the MF
• any error and its cause
Organization must be logical and clear (coherent and cohesive) and in the following order
• Main finding/restatement of the aim
• Support 3
• Error and cause (1 sentence)
No extraneous or new information
Language
• Paraphrasing of information in other report sections; not copied directly 6
• Present perfect passive
• Perfect passive modal
Marking Guide for the Discussion of Results and Conclusion