Imagine walking into a freshman biology lab during the second week of school–the chatter of busy students, feet shuffling around the room, and a focused stare on every face is what you would see in Mr. Seale’s Pre-AP biology class.

The students are following instructions on a handout they were given, conducting a “color change” lab.

“We’re mixing colors to create a desired result,” said Katie Deselle (9). “The lab is telling us what to mix, and we’re supposed to get a certain color.”

The teacher of the class, Mr. Seale, sat at his desk observing the students, watching to make sure the lab is executed correctly.

“They’re learning how to measure with accuracy, follow procedure, and learning how to work collaboratively and safely. So there’s lots of things thrown in here,” said Mr. Seale. “The lab is easy if they stay with the procedure. If they miss one step, they fail. It doesn’t take but one mistake.”

A couple of students sitting in the front of the room experienced the importance of following directions carefully.

“We messed up once,” said Sarah Dalton (9).

Her lab partner adds to the comment.

“We didn’t read the directions,” said McKenna Cooper (9) with a giggle.

The girls continue working, pouring colored water into test tube and measuring the amounts in each tube carefully.

“We have to put the test tubes in order, because that’s how we messed up last time,” said Sarah Dalton (9). “This lab taught me to make sure I read directions!”

On the other side of the room, another group is cleaning up their lab and finishing up documenting the results.

“Our lab was successful. The key to making the lab work was getting the exact measurements.” said Gillian Vaughn (9). “The lab was quite easy.”

While some students struggled with the lab, others seemed to catch on quickly and execute the lab perfectly.

“It’ll make them aware of how important it is to follow direction,” said Mr. Seale. “It’ll build a little confidence for them. That’s the whole point of the lab.”