Grade level(s): K-8
Subject: Life sciences
Topic: Using a microscope in the classroom
Estimated class time: 60 minutes
Objective To help students improve their skills in making slides and using a microscope.
Materials (Basic, 25-30 students) Materials (Comprehensive, 25-30 students) Preclass preparation (Teacher)
- Review the fundamental parts of a microscope and basic microscope operation.
- Review slidemaking techniques by preparing some slides for students to view and use as examples of proper technique.
Lesson outline
- Question and review
- Ask students to identify the fundamental parts of a microscope.
- Explain how the compound microscope differs from the dissecting microscope
- Ask students how much they already know about microscope operation and slide preparation.
- Introduce background information
- Explain proper microscope care and operation.
- Explain why compound microscopes and dissecting microscopes are used for different purposes.
- Explain the special techniques used to prepare specimens and create slides for microscopic study.
- Explain pertinent lab safety issues for slide preparation and microscopy.
- Guided practice
- Guide students through hands-on preparation of different types of microscope slides.
- Guide students as they view the slides they have prepared. Have them record their observations in writing and sketches.
- Independent practice/homework
Have students collect specimens at home, such as dust samples (from different areas of their houses), hair samples, or fingerprints, and bring them to school for study. - Wrap-up
Ask your students what they learned and how the different techniques can have practical applications, e.g., in forensics or medical research.
Assessment
Students will:
- Write about and sketch what they observed. (Note: If some students had difficulty viewing their specimens, ask them to explain what they think went wrong and how they can correct it the next time.)
- Describe procedures for preparing samples of other items they may wish to view under the microscope.
Cooperative learning ideas
- Have students compare and contrast their findings with those of their classmates.
- Have students work together to explain their findings and how they can improve their technique.
Cross-curriculum ideas
- Math: Young students count the number of specimens viewed on a slide, calculate magnification power, and learn about the metric system (e.g., the millimeter and micron). Older students can use the microscope’s mechanical stage to estimate the area of the viewing field at different magnifications and estimate the size of organisms viewed.
- Language: Students write a paragraph describing what they observed with the microscope.
- Art: Students sketch what they observed with the microscope.
Additional resources
