School Maths Lab

CBSE has issued detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for schools to set up and manage a Mathematics Laboratory. The guidelines are designed to move away from rote memorization towards experiential, hands-on learning.

I. Infrastructure  
The laboratory should be equipped with the following infrastructure to provide a stimulating learning environment: 

• Room size: A dedicated lab of at least 500 square feet is recommended, with seating for up to 40 students.
• Furniture:
  o Demonstration table for the teacher.
  o Work tables with storage space for students to perform activities.
  o Lab stools for seating.
• Storage: Racks and lockable cupboards (almirahs) are necessary for the safe storage of equipment and consumables.
• Teaching facility: A whiteboard or blackboard is required. A smartboard with internet access is also a recommended facility.
• Display: Display boards should be available to showcase student work and mathematical concepts.

II. Materials

• Essential equipment: The lab must contain a variety of materials and kits, including:
  o Geometry: Geometrical solids, tangrams, geo boards, clinometers, and measuring instruments.
  o Algebra: Algebraic identity models like (a+b) 2 = a 2 +b 2 +2ab
  o Arithmetic: Abacus, integer boards, and number charts.
  o Probability: Probability kits, dice, and coins.
  o Mensuration: Mensuration kits, measuring jugs, and beakers.
  o Paper-based materials: Isometric sheets, graph paper, and squared dotted paper. 

III. Management and maintenance 

To ensure the lab functions effectively, the following procedures must be followed: 

• Personnel: A qualified math teacher should be in charge of the lab. Other lab staff should also have a background in mathematics.
• Preparation: Staff should arrange all necessary materials and instruments on the tables before a class arrives for a practical session.
• Maintenance:
  o A list of all equipment and materials should be prominently displayed on a wall.
  o Inventory should be regularly checked and updated.
  o Equipment must be properly labeled and stored securely.
• Hygiene: The lab must be kept clean and free from dust. 

IV . Safety guidelines 
Safety and security are paramount in a school lab. The SOP includes clear guidelines for both students and staff: 

• Lab layout: Ensure wide doors for unobstructed exits and ample space for movement between workbenches.
• Emergency preparedness:
  o Fire extinguishers must be readily available near the laboratory.
  o A first-aid kit and basic medical facilities should be accessible.
  o An emergency plan must be in place and known to all staff.
• Safety rules:
  o Display “Do’s and Don’ts” at prominent places inside the lab.
  o Conduct additional experimental work only under strict supervision.
• Student conduct:
  o Students should not handle any equipment until instructed by a teacher.
  o They must follow all written and verbal instructions carefully.
  o Report any spillage, breakage, or injury to the teacher immediately.
  o Ensure hands are dry when handling electrical switches or plugs.
  o Never work alone in the laboratory.
  o Wash hands with soap and water before leaving the lab. 

V. Pedagogical and assessment procedures 
The SOP also dictates how the lab should be used to improve learning outcomes: 

• Activity-based learning: Teachers should use the lab to demonstrate, explain, and reinforce abstract mathematical concepts through concrete objects and activities.
• Time allocation: It is recommended that 15–20% of the total mathematics time be dedicated to lab activities.
• Record work: Students are required to maintain a record book documenting at least 10 skill-based activities throughout the academic year.
• Internal assessment: At the secondary level, 20 marks are allocated for internal assessment, which includes an evaluation of lab-based skills and record work.
• Manuals: Schools and publishers should refer to NCERT guidelines and manuals for age-appropriate lab activities. 

VI. Special considerations 

• Waste management: The SOP requires schools to properly manage any waste generated during lab activities.
• Waste disposal: Specific instructions for disposal of materials and waste must be provided to avoid accidents.