Amylase activity – A microscale approach in biology

Abstract

I have worked as a Technician at CLEAPSS for a number of years. CLEAPSS is an advisory service, providing support and advice for all aspects of practical work in schools and colleges across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Our aim is to promote safe and effective practical work in Science, Design &Technology and Art. We run training for science teachers and laboratory technicians, both in the UK and abroad, and we write guidance for our members in line with any relevant legislation regarding safety and the environment. Part of our work at CLEAPSS is to look at particular practicals that pose problems and through our contacts with teachers and technicians, as well as exam boards and other specialist organizations, we are in a unique position to gather information. We have developed a protocol, using information from these various sources as well as through trialing in our laboratory, to look at amylase activity and the effect of pH in particular. This microscale method is simple to carry out, requires minimal resources and gives reliable results.