on 17/02/2025
How Often Should Students Be Doing Practical Work?
Aim to incorporate practical work at least once a week to keep students engaged in their learning. However, always ensure that each activity is relevant to the curriculum—practical work should never be done just for the sake of it! If it doesn't directly support learning objectives, reconsider whether it’s necessary.
Who Can Help Me Most?
Your lab technicians are invaluable in supporting practical lessons, along with your teaching colleagues. Be courteous, ask for help when needed, and always stay organised by ordering practical materials in advance.
If you're introducing a new practical activity at your school, check whether lab technicians need additional time to prepare the necessary materials and equipment.
What Types of Lessons Might I Run?
- Completion Practical – These structured, step-by-step experiments are excellent for skill-building and formative assessments. If you need resources, ask colleagues or explore online. SASTA has a strong network to help support your teaching.
- Design Practical – Students design and conduct their own experiments in groups. These are fantastic for assessment as they require planning, critical thinking, and execution skills. While they may seem daunting, they often require less behaviour management because students are engaged and take ownership of their learning.
- Demonstrations – When an experiment is too dangerous, time-consuming, or requires expensive reagents, teacher-led demonstrations can be a powerful alternative. Live demonstrations are far more engaging and effective than simply showing a video.
Is Your Lab Organised?
Consider starting the year with a lab clean-out (not a spring clean—maybe a February clean!). Look for unused equipment—another school might benefit from it, so don't throw it away!
Evaluate your equipment management strategies—could they be more efficient? How do you foster accountability among students? Encourage clean-up routines and reinforce lab safety from the very first practical lesson to establish good habits early.
When Should I Schedule Practical Lessons?
I LOVE afternoon lessons for practical work. Try scheduling theory-based lessons in the morning when students are fresh, leaving hands-on activities for later in the day. This approach can also help reduce behaviour issues.
How Can I Improve My Practical Lesson Delivery?
Seek feedback from your colleagues and mentors—observation and constructive input can be invaluable for refining your approach. Reach out to SASTA for support and guidance. Practical work is an essential and enjoyable part of teaching science, so make the most of it!
Jason Greenslade
Westminster School
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