Science-Microworlds



 ˜  MicroWorlds ˜  

" I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious."
//~ Albert Einstein// ~

In this unit, students investigate both living and non-living specimens with a variety of magnifiers, including the microscope. They learn about the properties of lenses—transparency and curvature—and the relationship between magnification and the lens. Students examine the role of light and reflection in magnification through a variety of hands-on and collaborative activities. They develop technical skills such as focusing and lighting adjustment and learn to prepare specimens for viewing on microscope slides. Through first hand observation and experimentation they will discover that all living things are made of cells, which are composed of such sub-cellular structures as the nucleus and cell wall. Observation of living microorganisms such as // Volvox // allows students to understand how these organisms grow. Students will use scale models to investigate the size of such microbes relative to every day objects. Lastly, they will have the opportunity to learn about the Scanning Electron Microscope as they explore its high capabilities and powerful magnification through interactive websites and digital images!


 * Science Study Guide for test on 3-12-08**

[|**http://www.sciencespot.net/Pages/kdzbio.html**] //This is an excellent resource where students can learn about cells and miscroscopes. Includes microscope facts and history as well as a collection of motivating and interactive excercises.//

[|**Learning About Light & Lenses**] //This website is a great resource for students who want to review light and lens concepts we studied earlier in the unit as well as for students who want to strengthen their understanding of key light and magnification principals.//

[|**Virtual Electron Microscope**]//This engaging and informative activity allows students to view a variety of magnified living organisms (from real SEM images) as they attempt to match each specimen with its identity.//

[|**The Scanning Electron Microscope**] //An interactive website where students can learn about and ecperiment with the Scanning Electron Microscope!//

[|**Microbe Zoo Snack Bar**] //This Digital Learning Center for Microbial Ecology provides students with a unique look at microbes in our ecosysytem as they explore a virtual zoo filled with exotic specimens. Investigate these strange creatures that we encounter every day and that are essential for human health and survival on planet Earth! The zoo includes pictures of microbes; data about their size, scientific classification, feeding habitats, and much more.//

[|**Audio on how to use a microscope**]

[|**Parts of a microscope**]

[|**How to use a microscope**]