4 Frequent and varied practical science
Students should experience a practical activity in at least half of their science lessons. These activities can be short or long and varied in type.
On average, across the year and across all the sciences, at least half of lessons should involve direct practical activities, whether hands-on or teacher demonstration
Practical activities can be short or long. There should be enough long science lessons (of at least 50 minutes) in the timetable to give teachers flexibility about when they do experiments
On average, across the year and across all the sciences, at least half of lessons should involve direct practical activities, whether hands-on or teacher demonstration
Practical activities should be varied and balanced in type
Guidance and reports
Microbiology investigations
Interesting contexts to illustrate a range of biological concepts, from the nitrogen cycle to respiration.
SAPs: Post-16 Biology investigations
Allow students to practice skills such as microscopy, serial dilutions, using standard curves and data analysis.
GCSE Biology: Recommended practicals
Covering a range of topics including photosynthesis, cells, germination, totipotency and ecology - reliable, affordable, and engaging.
Reliable protocols for plant biology
Tested materials to support the A-level practical endorsement in England.
SAPs: Biotechnology practicals
A great range of ideas, from fruit juice production to fungal pathogens.
NCBE
Products, advice and reliable protocols for biotechnology practicals in schools.
Nuffield: Practical Biology
A useful set of resources covering a range of topics.
