Middle School Teacher how-to

How to Run a Science Lab Safely

Labs are engaging when they’re safe and organized.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Labs are engaging when they’re safe and organized. In short: review; demonstrate; assign, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review safety rules and PPE.

  2. Demonstrate the procedure.

  3. Assign lab roles.

  4. Monitor groups closely.

  5. Stop the class if safety rules are broken.

  6. Debrief results and clean up.

Safety reminders for middle school teachers

  • Follow lab safety rules
  • Supervise hallways and transitions
  • Know emergency procedures
  • Report concerns as a mandated reporter

Subject endorsement · Team teaching · Advisory · Pacing guide · Unit plan · Formative assessment: see the full middle school teacher glossary.

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