At Allegra School, we believe the most powerful learning happens when students can get hands-on with the world around them. Our recent Year 10 science practical is a perfect example of this, transforming theoretical knowledge into meaningful, memorable experiences.
As part of their unit on evolution and biological systems, our students explored the anatomy of fish through a hands-on dissection. This activity was carefully designed to bring theory to life, deepening understanding of species evolution by examining real examples of fish morphology and physiology.
The learning journey began with a guided presentation introducing the structure and function of key anatomical features. Students were then given the opportunity to conduct their own dissections, identifying organs and observing how the fish’s body is adapted to its environment. The excitement in the room was palpable, students were deeply curious about what they found inside, especially the eye lenses, which sparked a thoughtful discussion about size variation and visual capacity in aquatic environments.
This practical task didn’t stop at the dissection table. Students extended their learning by researching secondary data about the species of fish they examined, analysing the relationship between organ structure, body shape, and habitat. From there, they made informed predictions about how these animals might adapt over time to changes in their ecosystems.
One of the many highlights of this activity was the variety of ways students engaged with the content. Visual learners benefited from observing and documenting anatomical features, kinaesthetic learners thrived during the hands-on dissection process, and those who preferred research and reflection were able to delve into data and draw meaningful conclusions. In one group, students took their learning even further by creating a video blog of the process, a wonderful display of creativity and collaboration.
Beyond deepening their understanding of biology, students also developed essential skills in scientific investigation. They practised collecting and analysing both first-hand and secondary data, working together to evaluate their findings and build evidence-based arguments. Importantly, they also built confidence in using laboratory equipment safely and responsibly — skills that will serve them well in future scientific pursuits.
This activity exemplifies our commitment to creating supportive and transformative learning experiences. It’s a reminder that when students are given the chance to explore, question, and create, the impact extends far beyond the classroom.
