ERIC Number: EJ964070
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2011-Dec
Pages: 4
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0036-8148
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Time for Slime
Tessmer, Michael; Cowlishaw, Richard
Science and Children, v49 n4 p38-41 Dec 2011
An introduction to microscopy is common in the elementary curriculum, but microscope work with elementary school children can be a challenge. There is equipment maintenance to consider, as well as the difficulty of using the microscope for many children. These authors have found that using a digital microscope connected to a projector breaks down these barriers. Although the initial costs of a digital microscope may seem prohibitive, there are several advantages. These include only needing to purchase and maintain one quality piece of equipment, guaranteeing that each student will see what you want them to see, and the ability to reach a relatively large audience. The wonder and thrill of seeing microscopic organisms on a large screen captivates young children and engages their natural curiosity. A microscope connected to a digital projector can help students make connections between the microscopic and macroscopic world. In this article, the authors describe an inquiry-based activity designed primarily for the K-2 classroom in which students look at the microscopic parts of an aquatic food chain. Students will ask questions and make observations about the world around them, and then see the differences at the microscopic level. The authors also provide information on how to adapt the activity for older elementary age children. (Contains 2 online resources.)
Descriptors: Elementary School Students, Teaching Methods, Science Activities, Science Instruction, Laboratory Equipment, Elementary School Science, Wildlife, Food, Biology
National Science Teachers Association. 1840 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA 22201-3000. Tel: 800-722-6782; Fax: 703-243-3924; e-mail: membership@nsta.org; Web site: http://www.nsta.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A