Although practical work is a major component of science education, it is questionable whether it is used effectively in science classes or not. This article provides a critical review of practical work in science education by discussing the nature of practical work in schools. It is concluded that practical work, which is used in the context of suitable teaching styles, where students can relate to their learning, will be more beneficial to the students than the practical work in which students are led “cookbook” style through a set of instructions.

Keywords: Practical work, science education