Biology practical work in schools can often be seen as difficult to set up and often with disappointing results for students, as well as being time consuming and boring. In some schools there does seem to be less biology practical work than both chemistry and physics due to these perceived issues.

This online course will help you, as a technician, to change this perception about biology practical work. The course will cover a range of engaging and simple biology practical work, good practice on preparation and hints and tips to making more troublesome practicals work (and make it easier for you to prepare). We will discuss where these practicals can fit into the syllabus and look at where to source the materials used.

During the day there will be a mixture of live demonstrations, videos, and chats about good practice.

Programme 9.00-10.30

• Introduction
• Microscopy practicals
• Biotechnology (enzymes) practicals
• Microbiology (good practice / resources only

11.00-12.30

• Plants practicals
• Dissections
• Human health and disease

13.30-15.00

• GCSE and A level core practicals and ideas Resources Plenary and feedback

Outcomes - You will be able to:

• Describe a range of biology practicals
• Implement good biology preparation practice
• Evaluate the importance of biology practicals in your school's SOW

The course will be delivered using Zoom sessions, which will include group work/discussion and power-point slides. Participants will need access to a PC, or laptop or tablet / ipad type device, with good audio and a microphone, to maximise engagement on the day.

For queries, please email conferences@ase.org.uk

• Technician - Supporting Practical Biology 7th Oct 9:00 – 15:00  
• Technician - New Technicians getting started 14th Oct 9:00 – 15:00        
• Technician - Practical Chemistry 4th Nov 9:00 – 15:00   
• Technician - Practical Physics       18th Nov 9:00 – 15:00
• Technician - Supporting Students 2nd Dec 9:00 – 15:00