Practical classes have several aims. They should make you familiar with practical techniques. They should train you to use these methods precisely, but at the same time assess objectively the errors in your results, and their reliability. Beyond this, however, and particularly later in the programme, you will learn how to plan experiments to solve problems, and this will culminate in your research project in the final year of the programme.  You are strongly encouraged to attend all your practical classes, Biology is a practical subject and an ability to understand practical techniques is fundamental to your degree.  The work carried out in these classes may be assessed either through open assessment - submission of laboratory note books, worksheets and reports or in closed examinations.

You are encouraged to co-operate and discuss your work in practical classes, but clearly collusion  in assessed work cannot be allowed. The member of staff concerned will clarify the point at which co-operation in your work becomes collusion in an assessment.

Biochemistry students should note that Chemistry practical classes are compulsory.

Practical Class Assessment