A new web resource from the British Standards Institute is designed to assist teachers of key stages 4 and 5 applied science GCSEstudents. Supporting the GCSE double award, the site covers microscopy, micro-organisms, qualitative analysis, quantitative analysis, electrical properties and other physical properties. Each topic page contains lesson plans and practical assignments, such as putting colour into fireworks, testing for freshness by counting the micro-organisms in milk, and examining and comparing human and animal hair. A section titled Scientists and Standards illustrates the importance of following standard procedures to enhance consistency.

www.bsieducation.orgEducation14-19topic-areasapplied sciencedefault.shtml