Light microscopy: observing and drawing cells
I can use a light microscope to observe and produce scientific drawings of cells.
Light microscopy: observing and drawing cells
I can use a light microscope to observe and produce scientific drawings of cells.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A light microscope can be used to observe animal and plant cells.
- The parts of a light microscope and their functions.
- The sequence of steps setting up a light microscope to observe cells, including changing the magnification and focus.
- Observations from a light microscope can be recorded in a labelled scientific line drawing with an indication of scale.
- The magnification and real size of structures observed with a microscope can be calculated.
Keywords
Light microscope - A type of microscope that uses visible light and a system of lenses to generate magnified images of small objects.
Lens - A piece of glass or other transparent material with curved sides, used in a microscope to magnify objects.
Magnification - Making small objects appear larger in order to see more detail.
Focus - A point where light rays converge to form an image.
Common misconception
Cells are inert 'building blocks' like bricks. Microscopes can see structures as small as molecules.
The lesson explores what cells are, including that they are living units, and considers what can and can't be seen using a light microscope.
Equipment
Light microscopes, pre-prepared slides.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
