GCSE Biology Required Practical: Using a Microscope

Key Stage 4

Meaning

Use a microscope to make labelled diagrams of plant and animal cells with a magnification scale.

Method

1. Place a sample of onion cells on to a slide.
2. Place a drop of 0.01M Iodine Solution onto the cells.
3. Place a cover slip on the cells and use tissue paper to remove any excess iodine solution from the edges.
4. Place the slide onto the stage of the microscope and focus the image.
5. Note the magnfication of the eyepiece lens and the objective lens.
6. Sketch a cell including a magnification scale to indicate how much larger you drawing is than the actual cell.

1. Place a sample of animal cells on to a slide.
2. Place a drop of Methylene Blue onto the cells.
3. Place a cover slip on the cells and use tissue paper to remove any excess Methylene Blue from the edges.
4. Place the slide onto the stage of the microscope and focus the image.
5. Note the magnfication of the eyepiece lens and the objective lens.
6. Sketch a cell including a magnification scale to indicate how much larger you drawing is than the actual cell.