Small Organisms: Using microscopes to learn about small organisms

(El/MS) This is an organism du jour activity that depends on what is available for students to examine on the day of the activity. Students use a hand lens, dissecting microscope and possibly a compound microscope (depending on the age of the students and what is available that day for organisms) to examine and draw at least one organism then identify it as plant, animal, or something else and explain why they think it is that type of organism. Students then share their organisms with the class through a microscope with digital video camera attachment. Materials available: Supplies list and directions, student worksheet for in-class activity, directions for event, handout for event.

Small Organisms Supplies and Directions (pdf 220 KB)
Small Organisms Handout (pdf 221 KB)
Small Organisms Handout for Early Readers (pdf 297 KB)