Microscopes!: An introduction to microscopes and cells, including where the cell got its name

Students are introduced to magnification tools and the microscopic world. Depending on the age group, these can include a hand lens, magiscope, dissecting microscope, and compound microscope. Students examine items such as a slice of cork, the material in which cells were first discovered, plant parts, and/or very small organisms. Depending on the age-group, students draw what they observe, calculate and record the magnification of their image, and compare the images they can see with the different magnifiers. This lesson can be extended to include many different types of materials. Materials available: Supplies list and directions, student worksheet for mid to late elementary school.

Microscopes! Supplies and Directions (pdf 184)
Microscopes! Handout (pdf 199 KB)
Microscopes! Handout version 2 (pdf 193 KB)