Microscopy of a pondweed leaf: exploring depth of field and focal plane

This resource was developed as part of the series of articles Teaching Microscopy Using Plants published in School Science Review. It supports students to build confidence in using microscopes by exploring the concepts of depth of field and focal plane. Understanding depth of field and focal plane helps students to understand why they should begin observing a specimen with the lowest power objective and why they should use the focus knobs slowly and carefully. To find out more about how this resource can support students to become confident, independent microscopists, read the first article What does a microscope show me? available from the Growth Hub on the SAPS website.  www.saps.org.uk/growth-hub/teaching-microscopy-using-plants/