Welcome to Practical Biology

This website is for teachers of biology in schools and colleges. It is a collection of experiments that demonstrate a wide range of biological concepts and processes.

Experiments are placed within real-life contexts, and have links to carefully selected further reading. Each experiment also includes information and guidance for technicians.

We hope that you will share your experiences of making experiments work in the classroom by submitting your ideas about a particular experiment or contributing an idea for a new experiment to add to the site.

Why use practical work in Biology?

Biology is a practical science. Practical activities are not just motivational and fun: they also enable students to apply and extend their knowledge and understanding of biology in novel investigative situations, which can aid learning and memory, and stimulate interest.

Good quality, appropriate biology experiments and investigations are the key to enhanced learning, and clarification and consolidation of theory.