High school science sub plans face the same no-lab rule as middle school, but with more demanding content in biology, chemistry, physics and environmental science. The most useful sub days rehearse the analysis side of lab work, such as interpreting data, calculating values and evaluating experimental error, alongside a reading on current science and a set of practice questions in the style of end-of-course or AP exams. Students leave with skills that transfer straight back to the lab.
Provide a lab scenario with real-looking data. Students analyze, calculate and evaluate without touching equipment.
Unit conversions, rates, molar calculations or equations of motion make excellent independent practice with an answer key.
A short reading on a current discovery links the course to the real world and builds reading skills.
A short set of multiple-choice and free-response questions in end-of-course or AP style prepares students for assessments.
Avoid leaving a lab for a sub to supervise, even if it seems simple. Also avoid video-only lessons and textbook copying. If students are mid-way through a lab report, a work session on the analysis and conclusion sections can be an excellent sub day, provided the expectations are written out clearly. Be explicit about calculators, reference tables and whether students may work with a partner, because those three questions cause the most confusion for substitutes in science.
Mix and match to fill the period. Every one works on paper with no specialist knowledge.
Eight quick questions on the unit's core ideas and vocabulary to get students working immediately.
A described experiment with data to graph, a calculation to complete and questions on sources of error.
Calculations matched to the unit, such as Punnett squares, stoichiometry or velocity, with worked examples.
A short article on a real development, like CRISPR or battery technology, with discussion questions.
A short mixed set of multiple-choice and free-response questions modeled on end-of-course or AP formats.
One question that checks the key concept, so you know where to start when you return.
The checklist that stops the sub day going wrong before it starts.
Type your topic and LessonHQ writes a sub plan with sub directions, word-for-word scripts, timed tasks, early-finisher work and an answer key, already set to Grades 9-12. Edit it, then download as Word, Google Docs or PDF.
Popular searches: high school science sub plans Β· biology sub plans Β· chemistry sub plans no lab Β· high school science substitute plans
Yes. Choose the course and type the unit, and the explanation, questions and answer key are written for that course and grade, with no lab work required.
Yes. Choose AP Courses and type the course and unit, and the questions and answers are pitched at that level.
Labs on paper, Math in science, Science literacy, Test-style practice. Provide a lab scenario with real-looking data. Students analyze, calculate and evaluate without touching equipment.
The 6 activities on this page add up to about 60 minutes, so pick the ones that fit your class period or block. LessonHQ lets you set the length from 30 to 120 minutes and times every section for you.
A clear note that no labs, chemicals or equipment are to be used; Lab safety rules and the location of safety equipment; Calculator and reference sheet policy. Our free sub plan binder template has space for all of it.
Yes, you can start free with no card. Paid plans add higher monthly limits. Every sub plan exports to Word, Google Docs or PDF, fully editable.