This activity is designed for advanced biology students, though it does repeat some of the elements used in the “e” lab they performed in basic biology. This advanced version of the lab builds on prior knowledge and adds additional lab skills, such as estimating size of specimens and staining.
The lab includes several sections with basic microscope tasks.
- Determining magnification of scanning, low and high power
- Labeling a typical classroom microscope
- Focusing with scanning, low, and high power
- Understanding field of view and working distance
- Estimating a specimen size (euglena and paramecium)
- Making a wet mount
- Staining specimens using the wicking technique
- Observing pond water
I usually plan two periods for this lab, which gives students plenty of time to explore various preserved slides I have and get plenty of practice. Most students do fine focusing with the scanning and low power. Focusing on high power requires they follow specific steps and have patience. This does take practice! Throughout the lab, students make sketches and answer questions. The goal is for students to become familiar with the microscope and be able perform basic tasks. In the past, I have actually done lab exams, where students must show me that they can do these tasks. Unfortunately, the lab exam takes a lot of time and not ideal for the fast pace of AP Bio.
I created a new version on Canva that is pretty to look at, but the doc file has the same basic tasks. When using Canva, you copy the template to your account and then you can change or edit any of the tasks.
I follow this activity with a quiz over the microscope and how to use the microscope. My classroom microscopes are all different, which does present some challenges. One of the questions asks students to compare different microscopes, so you will need to change that if yours are all the same.
Grade Level: 11-12 | Time Required: 2 – 3 hours
Related Activities
Basic Microscope Lab – simpler version using E slides and threads for freshman level biology
Microscope Labeling – learn the parts of the microscope and how to use it
Learn the Parts of the Microscope – coloring activity that describes each part, their function, and how to focus
Practice Quiz on the Microscope – self grading; identify parts of the microscope and how to use it