Why it’s important to encourage student decision-making in practicals

By Emily Casserly and Lucy Wood2023-07-17T08:30:00

A cartoon of a science teacher allowing students to pick the equipment to use for a chemistry practical

Source: © Adam Larkum

Improve student engagement, motivation and behaviour by giving them more choice

Developing students’ decision-making in practical science enquiry is an important national curriculum aim for key stage 3 students in England, yet many students only experience practical work as a set of instructions that need to be followed. Teacher Emily reflects on how she has gradually changed her practice to incorporate student choice into practical work with her younger classes, and how it has led to improved learning outcomes.

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