Planning a term of virtual lab lessons: a template for science departments

Virtual labs work best when they are planned into the scheme of work, not added at the last minute. Here is a template a science department can use in one planning meeting.

Step 1: Map the syllabus

List the practical outcomes for each class this term. Mark which ones your school can already teach with real equipment, and which ones it cannot.

Step 2: Match labs to gaps

For every outcome you cannot teach practically, pick a virtual lab. For outcomes you can teach, use the virtual lab for preparation before the real practical.

Step 3: Set a rhythm

A good starting rhythm is:

• one full virtual lab lesson every two weeks per class;
• one short ten-minute activity in other weeks;
• one real practical, prepared in the virtual lab first, each month.

Step 4: Share the load

Each teacher prepares worksheets for two or three labs and shares them with the department. Within a term, you build a shared library.

Step 5: Book the computer room

Agree a fixed slot in the computer lab for each science class. If your school has one computer room, work with the ICT teacher on a shared timetable.

Step 6: Assess and review

At the end of term, review:

• which labs students enjoyed most;
• which ones improved test results;
• what you will change next term.

A sample entry

• Week: 3
• Class: Form 2 (Grade 10)
• Topic: Rates of reaction
• Lab: Inorganic chemistry
• Type: full lesson, followed by a real practical in week 5

Keep the plan on one page so everyone can see it.

Book a demo and we will help your department build its first term plan.