Calibrating and measuring in microscopy: A paper-based activity

This activity aims to help students learn the skills of measuring using an eye piece graticule and calibrating a stage micrometer without the extra challenge of using a microscope.

Once students are successful at this activity they can then progress to using the skills with a microscope.

The challenges of teaching students to calibrate a microscope whilst using one include that it’s difficult for a teacher to demonstrate exactly what to do, difficult for students to point out exactly what they are talking about when asking questions, and difficult for teachers to identify the specific issues students are having when they struggle to grasp the skill. By transferring the activity onto paper these challenges are avoided.

The images in the Slides for Printing presentation should be printed on paper and acetate (instructions are given in the Teaching Notes document and in the slide notes). Students then use these sheets to work out the thickness of a sunflower leaf. The Teaching Notes provide comprehensive instructions on how to do this and the main Presentation document has instructions for students.