The Microscope

Author Names: Jan Coley & Sherry Pewitt

Grade level:  Grades 5-12

Subjects
 

Science

Time Frame
Three to five 30 minute classes

Objectives

In this lesson, students will:

• Identify the parts of a compound microscope
• Identify the use of each part
• Be able to focus the microscope to view slides.
• Draw and label what they see in the field of vision

Compound microscope, newspaper, prepared slides.  These internet sites:
http://nsm.fullerton.edu/~skarl/EM/Microscopy/MicroscopeParts.html
http://www.wisc.edu/botit/Botany_130/Microscope/Unlabelled_side.html
http://ofcn.org/cyber.serv/academy/ace/sci/cecsci/cecsci006.html
http://www.mpcc.cc.ne.us/steinbeck/orientation/lssn1-9.html

1. Identify and discuss the parts of a microscope

2. Students will label parts of the microscope on the web page and teacher-generated worksheet

3. Students practice using the microscope using the letter “e” from newsprint

4. Students will view prepared slides

5. Students will draw the image in the field of vision
 

Curriculum Frameworks Addressed by this Lesson:
Grades 6-8
PROCESS OF SCIENCE
Observing is a process used to develop an awareness of the surrounding environment.
 Tennessee Standard 1.1a - Observing is a process used to develop an awareness of the surrounding environment.
Benchmarks: By incorporating prior knowledge with the process of observation, a better understanding of one’s environment may develop.
Tennessee Standard 1.1b - The human senses and technological instruments are used to gather information from the environment.
Benchmarks: Scientific investigation is enhanced through the use of technology.
THEME: 1.6 COMMUNICATING - An essential aspect of science is the act of accurately and effectively conveying oral, written, graphic or electronic information from the prepare to the user.
Tennessee Standard 1.6a - The sharing and disseminating of results should be done in a clear and concise manner.
Benchmarks: Human beings learn complicated concepts from others through various methods of communication. Scientists are linked worldwide both personally and professionally through international scientific organizations.
 

For additional relevant information, visit the following Web sites:

• http://nsm.fullerton.edu/~skarl/EM/Microscopy/MicroscopeParts.html
• http://www.wisc.edu/botit/Botany_130/Microscope/Unlabelled_side.html
• http://ofcn.org/cyber.serv/academy/ace/sci/cecsci/cecsci006.html

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