Practical science

For teachers in England and Wales, the introduction of new A-level chemistry specifications has brought practical work back into the spotlight. The straitjacket of assessed tasks is gone. Teachers have a wonderful opportunity to plan the practical work they want to do, ensuring students develop skills throughout their course. How can they make the most of this opportunity to get the best out of practical work?

Derek Denby expains how to get the most out of lab work, from setting managable objectives and encouraging minds-on thinking to ensuring practical work is varied and placed in a context the students will understand.

This article includes examples of questions, objectives and investigations which could be used.