Microscopes!
All grade levels in British Columbia include observing and investigating in the science curriculum. Younger grades start by using magnifying glasses, then upper elementary introduces microscopes, and high school uses microscopes in cell biology. Recently, I had the opportunity to practice my microscope skills using elementary-friendly microscopes.
The microscopes were very easy to use. We were able to press the on button and start using the microscope. The microscopes come with small microscope slides to use; however, we used items that were laid out for us, like moss, bark, cork, etc. I included microscopes in my AHA reflections because I never had the opportunity to use a microscope until high school, and even then, we had to share with up to 4 people. My experience left me confused and unprepared for university biology. It is so important to expose learners to things that they are going to see in later grades. When I found out about elementary appropriate microscopes, I was so excited because I did not even know something like that existed! I love them so much, I might even buy a class set one day!
I believe microscopes can go beyond science. An activity I have brainstormed is using small print texts and having the students find new words using the microscopes. The possibilities are endless! Check out the article linked to the image below that explains how microscopes increase student engagement!
