This work is aimed to improve the teaching effect of the practice link in water pollution control engineering. Hereinafter we have described the reform of the activated carbon adsorption experiment. On one hand, we changed the traditional data analysis method of COD adsorption experiment according to our practice experience. On the other hand, we added a new comprehensive decoloration experiment, in which the effects of AC dosage, dye kind, AC kind and temperature were discussed. Via practice, the reform was proved to be successful in increasing students' ability of applying theory to practice as well as their research interest.