Microworlds

Students examine everyday objects as well as microorganisms with a variety of magnifying devices. They begin by investigating several common objects with the unaided eye. Using a variety of lenses, including hand lenses, acrylic spheres, and water drops, they learn that a magnifying lens must be transparent and curved.

Next, students use a microscope to view inanimate objects. They learn proper focusing and lighting techniques, as well as how to prepare slides. Students prepare a section of onion skin and observe its cells.

Students' attention then turns to living specimens. Using a microscope, they view three microorganisms-Volvox, Blepharisma, and the vinegar eel. They study the cell structure of these organisms and observe how the organisms feed, grow, and multiply. In a final challenge, students use the microscope to examine cultures they have grown from hay and grass infusions.

Trainer Tips

When making the hay and grass infusions (Lesson 10), we recommend the following:

1. Age the water at least 24 hours in an uncovered container before adding hay and grass. This gets rid of the chlorine, which can inhibit the microbial growth.

2. After adding hay and grass - store, loosely covered, in a warm location, such as a sunny window, for at least 2 weeks.

Interesting experiments can be done comparing results from using different kinds of water. Try fresh tap water, aged tap water, rain water, and pond water!

Parent Letter - English

Parent Letter - Spanish

Microworlds Storyline (pdf)

Living Materials Information & Care Sheets

Literacy / Book Lists

Teacher Recommended Resources

Recommended Websites

Sponsorship Opportunity

Sponsor the Microworlds unit! To learn about sponsoring a unit and all the other giving opportunities at The Einstein Project, please contact us at 920-884-8800 or einstein@einsteinproject.org.

What are people saying about the Microworlds Einstein science unit?

"Microworld books were very interesting!"
--Pam Dellise, Grade 4 teacher at Red Smith Elementary School, Green Bay, Wisconsin

"The books included with the unit were excellent!!!"
--Wendee Draves, Grade 5 teacher at West De Pere Middle School, De Pere, Wisconsin