Microworlds Targeted Grade Level -- 5 Developed by National Science Resource Center Distributed by Carolina Biological

Microworlds Module Overview

In Microworlds, students examine everyday objects as well as microorganisms with a variety of magnifying devices. They begin by investigating several common objects with the unaided eye. By using a variety of lenses, including hand lenses, acrylic spheres, and water drops, they learn that a magnifying lens must be transparent and curved. Next, students use a microscope to view inanimate objects. They learn proper focusing and lighting techniques as well as how to prepare slides. As a final challenge in this segment of the unit, students prepare a section of onion skin and observe its cells. Next, students' attention turns to living specimens. Using a microscope, they view three microorganisms--Volvox, Blepharisma, and the vinegar eel. They observe the cell structure of these organisms and how the organisms feed, grow, and multiply. In a final challenge, students use the microscope to examine cultures they have grown from hay and grass.

Descriptions of the Science and Technology for Children ^tm (STC) units © 1997 National Academy of Sciences. Reproduced with permission from the National Science Resources Center (NSRC), Washington, DC. For more information about the STC ^tm program and other NSRC programs and activities visit the NSRC web site. For information on ordering the STC ^tm curriculum visit the Carolina Biological Supply Company web site.

These web pages were created initially by Ingrid Rebman, Julian Harris Elementary, Decatur City Schools, and Becky Tucker, Woodmeade Elementary, Decatur City Schools. Please address comments or questions to hasp@dcs.edu

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