Language practice task: writing a methods section
Below are some instructions for an experiment to measure wind tunnel drag. Imagine you have carried out this experiment and followed all the instructions. Now you have to write your own methods section.
Use the comments to have a go. We have given the first two steps as an example. Remember to use sequence words and the passive voice!
A. Procedure:
- Note the aerodynamic shape and dimension in the experimental record, and the number of the wind tunnel for the experiment.
- Ensure the wind tunnel is off and no air is passing through the working section.
- Zero the velocity and drag readings.
- Input a small value of “Fan speed” and turn the fan on.
- Once a steady state has been reached, record the velocity and drag (as well as uncertainty) from the software.
- Repeat step 5 with increased values of fan speed, to obtain a suitable number of readings.
- Perform the same experiment with alternative aerodynamic models.
B. Experimental Method
First, the aerodynamic shape, dimension and wind tunnel number were noted. Following this, the wind tunnel was checked to ensure that it was off and no air was passing through the working section. …