![5 Classroom Projects with a Digital Microscope 5 Classroom Projects with a Digital Microscope](https://mcstaging.learningresources.com/media/aw_blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Digital_Microscope.png)
5 Classroom Projects with a Digital Microscope
- Gabrielle Fischer Posted On Jan 25, 2017 | STEM
Sometimes a fresh perspective is all that’s needed to make a familiar school subject seem new and exciting. That’s what makes a digital microscope so cool! It magnifies objects so students can see details missed by the naked eye.Sound like a new way to get your classroom engaged? Check out these project ideas for Science and Math to get you started.![digital microscope](https://www.learningresources.com/media/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/twist-microscope.png)
![digital microscope](https://www.learningresources.com/media/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/twist-microscope.png)
Explore Melting Ice (Grades 2-3)
- Place two ice cubes on a plate. Ask students to predict what will happen when salt is placed on one of the ice cubes.
- Sprinkle some salt on one ice cube. Place the digital microscope above the salted ice cube and have students observe for one minute.
- If possible, take pictures of both ice cubes and label them. Have students discuss and write what they see.
- Then, after four minutes and eight minutes, have them take pictures. They can again discuss and write what they see.
- Have students generate conclusions about the effects of salt on ice.
The Skinny on Skin (Grades 2-4)
- Have a volunteer come to the front of the class.
- Use a digital microscope to get a close look and picture of the child’s skin on the back of their hand. Discuss what is observed.
- Ask students if they think the skin will look different on the palms of the child’s hand.
- Discuss possible reasons why they are different.
Counting Change (Grades 2-3)
- Hold several coins in your hand under the digital microscope. Adjust the focus then slowly move your hand so the students see part of each coin.
- Have the students write an estimate of the total value of the coins.
- Show the students the coins and calculate the actual amount as a group. Students write actual amounts next to their estimates.
- Have students whose estimates were closest to the amount explain how they determined their answers.
- Repeat the process with varying amounts and types of coins.
Micro Measures (Grades 2-3)
- Place a ruler under the digital microscope so the students can see a full centimeter. .
- Place a paper clip under the Twist and ask students to predict if the paper clip will measure a full centimeter, more than a centimeter, or less than a centimeter.
- Place the ruler beside the paper clip and focus the microscope so the students can read the measurement.
- Repeat with other small objects found in the room.