One of a series of resources from Science & Plants for Schools (SAPS) investigating key topics in plant biology. A simple yet accurate protocol looking at the results of the enzyme catalase. Catalase is a widespread enzyme, protecting the cell from toxic effects of hydrogen peroxide by catalysing its...

One of a series of resources from Science & Plants for Schools (SAPS) investigating key topics in plant biology. A standard protocol which is used to extract phosphatase enzymes from plants, including a method to calculate the rate of reaction. Phosphatases are enzymes widespread in plants easily extracted from...

This resource is designed to meet the specifications for the A-level practical endorsement in England (CPAC). However, given its focus on adaptation and evolution, it will make a valuable resource for those following a variety of different specifications, such as the Advanced Higher Biology Organisms and Evolution...

This resource, aimed at primary level, helps to develop an understanding of what plants need to grow well. It provides an opportunity to plan and carry out a fair test looking at the effect of fertilizer on growing radishes. It includes detailed notes on setting up and...

This is one of a set of resources developed to support the teaching of the primary national curriculum. They are designed to support the delivery of key topics within science and design and technology. This resource focusses on the investigation of how different supply voltages affect the brightness of a lamp....

Understanding the osmotic potential of plant cells is a key part of understanding...

From Science & Plants for Schools (SAPS), this practical activity was developed for Scottish Highers specifications, but the protocol can equally well be used for other specifications. 

Students look at potato cyst nematodes, a serious pest of food crops. This is a good example of parasitism to study as...

In this resource, pupils carry out an investigation into the presence of vitamin C, an antioxidant, in the different parts of different plants. This is put in the context of Dr Jess Chu, a young scientist researching Malaysian rainforest plants to see if they have any antioxidant, anti-cancer or antibacterial...

In this resource, students investigate the antibacterial properties of plants. Their investigation is placed in the context of a case study of Julian Ma, ...

In this resource, students investigate the biodiversity of different habitats, looking at the relative abundance of different plant species. Students carry out a practical activity in the school grounds or other green space, comparing the diversity of habitats using Cairns' sequential comparison index.

Their...

Aimed at students aged 11-14, this worksheet explores the causes of different illnesses, focusing on the contribution that DNA makes. The questions explore the role of DNA in health and how genes play a role in causing single-gene disorders and multifactorial conditions. The resource is part of a collection of...

In this investigation, students learn about carrying out a fair test, by running a blind trial of organic and non-organic herbs to see if they can identify any differences in taste. The investigation is put into a STEM careers context through an initial case study of James Seymour, a scientist who works as a...

This resource from the Nuffield Foundation provides material for teaching 'the nature of science' for students aged 11-16. The units were designed to help teachers and learners explore questions such as:
*How and why do scientific ideas change and develop?
*...

This protocol allows students to investigate the effects of the hormone auxin (Indole Acetic Acid or IAA) as a plant growth regulator. The investigations give opportunities to look at auxiliary bud development, root development, and leaf abscission in Coleus. The method is suitable for independent investigations by...

Students research the theoretical principles of thermography and create a thermogram.  They will need to:

• find out about hot body radiation and the medical uses of thermography
• Create a thermogram. Temperatures are...