Bin 6: Let's Magnify
The ‘Let’s Magnify’ bin encourages children to investigate the world around them just like real scientists! With a National Geographic microscope, magnifying glasses, pipette, specimen dish, tweezers, 10 different insects in resin, and easy-to-follow instructions, kids will be able to conduct tons of science experiments. Children can closely observe plants or insects and their intricate details, promoting curiosity and exploration. Recommended for children age 3+.
Early Learning Standards Met:
North Dakota - Scientific Reasoning, Social, and Emotional Development.
Minnesota - Cognitive Development: Mathematics, Science and Social Systems, Social and Emotional Development, and Approaches to Learning.
Do Together
Ideas for how to use this bin:
- Use a magnifying glass and microscope to view a wide range of specimens
- Explore the prepared plant slides
- Create your own slides
- Investigate textures of rocks
- Examine coins
Watch or Play Together
Use this media connection to spark interest, model skills and approaches, or explore a concept:
- Analyze: SciGirls, Super Sleuths (Video 3:27)
- Field Trip: Explore Scientific, Rise and Shine: Science Time (Video 5:00)
- Insect Predators, Kratts Brothers (Video 2:05)
Talk and Wonder Together
Maximize learning using these prompts during or after the activities:
- What are the differences between a magnifying glass and a microscope?
- How do specimens look different using each?
- What can you see using the microscope that you can’t with just your eyes?
- What else could we study using the microscope?
- Why do scientists use microscopes?
- If you were a scientist, what would you study?
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