Light Microscope GCSE Biology Practical
Microscopy: using a light microscope to observe, draw and label a selection of plant and animal cells.
Optical microscopes are widely used in biological science. The GCSE curriculum requires students to observe, draw and label a selection of plant and animal cells. A magnification scale must be included. Students should be familiar with the names and functions of the microscope parts from their work at Key Stage 3. A revision of this before the practical would be beneficial.
Microscope styles can vary between manufacturers, but the mechanics and workings are generally the same.
Equipment (per pair of participants)
• M-100FLED microscope
• Selection of prepared microscope slides
• Ruler
• Pencils
• Alcohol-free cleaning wipes
Observing Animal and Plant Cells Using a Microscope
Method
- Preparing for Observation
- Choose a Slide
- Select a slide containing an animal cell for initial observation.
- Position the Slide
- Place the slide on the microscope stage and secure it with the stage clips.
- Select the Objective Lens
- Rotate the objectives to select the lowest power magnification (usually 4x).
- Position the Stage
- Without looking through the eyepiece, use the coarse focus knob to raise the stage until the slide is close to the objective lens.
- Ensure the slide does not touch the lens.
- Viewing the Specimen
- Focus at Low Power
- Look through the eyepiece and slowly turn the coarse focus knob in the opposite direction to lower the stage.
- Adjust until the specimen comes into approximate focus.
- Use the fine focus knob to achieve a sharp image.
- Switch to Higher Power Magnifications
- Locate a group of cells and rotate the objectives to the 10x magnification lens.
- Adjust the focus using the fine focus knob for clarity.
- Repeat for the 40x magnification lens, using the fine focus knob to bring the specimen into clear view.
- Draw Observations
- Use a pencil to draw a detailed diagram of the observed cells.
- Clearly label any visible components (e.g., nucleus, cytoplasm, cell membrane).
- Calculate Magnification
- Multiply the eyepiece magnification by the objective lens magnification to determine the total magnification of the image.
- Repeat for Plant Cells
- Change Slide
- Replace the animal cell slide with a slide containing plant cells.
- Repeat the Observation Process
- Follow the same steps for focusing, magnification, and drawing as outlined above.
Additional Notes
- Microscope Variability: While styles and designs of microscopes may differ slightly between manufacturers, their basic operations are generally the same.
- Safety Tip: Handle the slides carefully to avoid damage or contamination.
Technician tips
• Microscopes should be serviced annually. General microscope servicing can be completed by the Technician Team, given time.
CLEAPSS have some excellent online resources which can help with the maintenance of microscopes:
GL294 Microscopes fixing common faults
PS042 Repair and service agents for microscopes
GL372 Setting up and using a microscope
• Microscopes should be wiped in between each student use using alcohol-free cleaning wipes
To do this practical you will need
Need some Biology inspiration and help?
Observe, draw and label animal and plant cells using our light microscope for the GCSE Biology required practical. At Philip Harris, our high-quality light microscopes are suitable for all manners of microscope work from basic use. To do this practical, you will need a monocular LED microscope, prepared microscope slide, rulers, pencils and cleaning wipes. Shop Philip Harris for more science equipment ideal for your school or lab.
