A microscope magnifies tiny objects so we can see them. Scientists use microscopes to study cells, bacteria, and other organisms too small for our eyes alone!
π§ Parts of a Microscope
Where you look through (usually 10x)
Different magnifications (4x, 10x, 40x)
Platform for slides
Illuminates specimen
Coarse and fine adjustment
Support structure
π How to Use a Microscope
- Start with the lowest objective (4x)
- Place slide on stage and secure with clips
- Turn on light source
- Look through eyepiece
- Use coarse focus first (big knob)
- Use fine focus to sharpen image
- Increase magnification only when focused
Total magnification = Eyepiece Γ Objective
Example: 10x eyepiece Γ 40x objective = 400x magnification
𧫠Cells
All living things are made of cells. Some organisms are single-celled (bacteria), others have trillions (humans)!
Cell parts to look for:
- Nucleus β control centre
- Cell membrane β outer boundary
- Cell wall β (plants only) rigid outer layer
- Chloroplasts β (plants) photosynthesis
- Vacuole β storage
βοΈ Activities
After viewing a specimen, draw and label:
- Specimen name: ___________
- Magnification used: ___________
Draw your specimen here (neat, labelled)
π©βπ« Teacher Notes
- Science: Living World β cells
- Science: Nature of Science β practical skills