Microscopes :: Where to Begin
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Microscope :: Getting Started
There are many questions that come to mind when considering microscopes. Do I need one? What kind do I need? What's the difference among them? How much do they cost? The answers depend, of course, on your family's science enthusiasm and budget. Let's say you are looking to buy a "good" microscope, then where do you begin? Perhaps you already have a microscope and are now confronted with the problem of how to use it. What can I do with a microscope? How can I integrate its use in my science curriculum? What types of lessons are suitable for my children?
It is my hope that this lens will help you to get started. The resources and links provided here were compiled to not only help you to buy a microscope but also to help you to learn how to effectively use it in your classroom. Take a few minutes to browse around and please leave a little note on the bottom sharing your own tips. :D
It is my hope that this lens will help you to get started. The resources and links provided here were compiled to not only help you to buy a microscope but also to help you to learn how to effectively use it in your classroom. Take a few minutes to browse around and please leave a little note on the bottom sharing your own tips. :D
Microscopes Microscopes Microscopes
I'm overwhelmed! Where Do I Begin?
Follow these links to learn more about microscopes and to help you make the best purchasing choice for your family.
- Buying a Microscope
- A homeschooling mom's guide to buying a microscope.
- Brock Magiscopes
- Over 20 years ago the Brock Magiscope® was created to fill the need for a simple, tough, and versatile microscope that could be used indoors or out, on everything from slides to rocks. Teachers needed an instrument that did not require electricity or complex mechanisms that frustrated everyone involved. Since that time, the Brock Magiscope® has evolved and established itself as the leader of the pack. If you want success with a microscope, ask anyone who owns one... there is nothing like a Brock!
- Great Scopes
- Informative microscope buyer's guide, free online science labs, plus stereo & compound microscopes for the novice to professional.
- Bargain Microscopes
- Bargain Microscopes is your one-stop source for the best deals on student as well as research grade optical light microscopy equipment. Discount Priced!
A Short & Simple Tutorial
How to Use a Microscope
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Brock Magiscopes are Great for Young Children
Lesson Plans & Printables
The resources listed here provide you with lesson plans to help you to integrate microscopes into your science curriculum.
- Mighty Microscopes
- A collection of lesson plans that I put together as part of an Intel Teach to the Future Grant application. These lessons are adaptable to all ages. Click on this link to download the mini-unit for free.
- Great Scopes
- Informative microscope buyer's guide, free online science labs, plus stereo & compound microscopes for the novice to professional.
- Biology Corner
- A vast collection of biology lessons and printables. Much to explore.
Great Books about Microscopes
Basic Vocabulary
A few key terms to get you started.
Depth of field How much of a three dimensional object can be seen in focus at any one time.
Eyepiece This is the top lens on a conventional light microscope.
Field of view The area visible through the microscope.
Focus To make the image sharp.
Focussing knob Two knobs that move the stage up and down until the image on the screen is sharp.
Object The thing being looked at using a microscope.
Objective lens This is the lens nearest to the object on a conventional microscope. Most microscopes have a low power, medium power and high power objective lens.
Magnification This is the difference between the sizes of an object and the image of it. Magnification is the image size divided by the object size.
Stage The platform onto which the object is placed for viewing with the microscope.
Transparent Light can be shone from below through transparent objects.
Eyepiece This is the top lens on a conventional light microscope.
Field of view The area visible through the microscope.
Focus To make the image sharp.
Focussing knob Two knobs that move the stage up and down until the image on the screen is sharp.
Object The thing being looked at using a microscope.
Objective lens This is the lens nearest to the object on a conventional microscope. Most microscopes have a low power, medium power and high power objective lens.
Magnification This is the difference between the sizes of an object and the image of it. Magnification is the image size divided by the object size.
Stage The platform onto which the object is placed for viewing with the microscope.
Transparent Light can be shone from below through transparent objects.
What Else Do I Need?
Many microscopes come with a small set of prepared slides to get you started. Once you are comfortable with using a scope, you'll want to start making your own slides to observe the micro-world that surrounds you. Here are a few things you will need.
Preparing a Wet-Mount Slide
What Microscope Do I Use?
When I purchased my microscope a year ago, my children were 3 and 5 years of age. I wanted a scope that while advanced now would grow with them and be suitable to them in their junior high years as well. I have been very happy with my choice.
Celestron 44104 500x Power Advanced Biological Microscope
Amazon Price: $106.95 (as of 06/03/2012)
This microscope features solid construction and all the basics. It is easy to set up and comes with a small set of prepared slides. The optics are fine for home use and it's easy to use.
Discover More :: Learn More
Check out these great lenses for more ideas on how you can easily integrate a microscope into your science curriculum.
How Do You Use Microscopes in Your Classroom?
Share your own tips and successful lessons with others.
Lensmaster
HarmonyArtMom wrote...
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***Blessed by an Angel***
Posted January 27, 2011
Lensmaster
by Makita
Eva is passionate about education and has extensive experience in both formal and informal settings. In 2001, she was awarded National Board Certification... more »
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