Standard and objective:

1a Use appropriate instruments to observe, describe and compare various

types of cells (e.g., plant, hair).
Activity title: Using the Microscope
Description: The invention of the microscope was a break though for scientists.
It opened up a new world of living organisms and insight into the structure of
living things. For a microscope to be useful, it must be used properly and
handled carefully. In this activity, you will learn to care for and focus a
microscope.
Materials needed: : Microscope, slide, cover slip, newspaper, scissors, water
and dropper
Prior knowledge needed: Name of equipment
Time required: One period
Special teacher procedures, safety notes, and suggestions: Make sure that
the students use the equipment carefully and watch the power cords.
Student sheet or handout (if needed) see following paper.
Scoring guide: Five points for each of the questions and 5 points for the
drawings. Total of 35 points

7th Grade Science

Name___________________

Title: Using a Microscope

Introduction: The invention of the microscope was a break though for
scientists. It opened up a new world of living organisms and insight into the
structure of living things. For a microscope to be useful, it must be used properly
and handled carefully. In this activity, you will learn to care for and focus a
microscope.
Materials: Microscope, slide, cover slip, newspaper, scissors, water and
dropper
A

B
C
D

Procedure:
1. Label the parts of the microscope indicated.
2. Prepare a microscope slide by cutting out a small letter e from a newspaper.
Add a drop of water to the slide and place it on the e.
3. Carefully place a cover slip over the e.
4. View under LOW power objective first. Draw what you see in the circle below.
If the microscope needs to be focused, use the LARGE adjustment knob.
5. View under MEDIUM power next. Use the large or small adjustment knob for
focusing if needed. Draw what you see.
6. Draw under high power next. Use the fine adjustment knob to focus. DO
NOT use the large adjustment knob.
7. Cut a piece of colored picture from the newspaper. Flesh tones are especially
interesting. Make a wet mount. Draw what color it looks like to your eye
8. Observe under low power first, then move up until you think you have the best
power to draw it under. Use colored pencils or crayons to draw what you see.

Prediction: (What do you think the e will look like?)

Data:
e drawings:

___________________
low power

__________________
medium power

______________________
high power

Newspaper color picture

What color it looked like to the eye

Under the microscope

Analysis:
1. What are two things that are different about the e when you see it under a
microscope?
2. Which power do you see more of the e on?
3. Which power is the e most greatly magnified under?
4. Why is it important to start looking at an object under low power?
5. How do newspapers make colors on photographs?
Conclusion: (look at your prediction)