AIMS Educational Foundation Magnificent Microworld Adventures 127pp, 8.5x11, paperback $16.95 (with the companion video, $39.80) 1997 1-881431-53-3. Order from the AIMS Foundation, P.O.Box 8120, Fresno, CA 93747-8120, 888-733-2467. Grades 4-9. Activities Integrating Math and Science (AIMS) is a nonprofit foundation; they publish an extensive series of manuals. This one introduces the microworld with several microscopy lessons, biographies of famous microscopists, and about 20 biological exercises. There is a valuable emphasis on measurement and math. Several of the exercises (examine a preserved sea star, experiment with the osmotic properties of a potato slice) are good biology but require no magnification. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Blueford, J.R. Microscopes in the Classroom 102pp,. 8.5x11 spiral bound. Sold in the MSN Microscope Trunk for $599.00, with 5 basic compound microscopes, prepared slides and other specimens; not sold separately. 1996 1-56638-253-X Order from Math/Science Nucleus, 4009 Pestana Place, Fremont, CA 94538-6301; (510)490-6284. Middle school. Although this manual is not sold separately, its being advertised nationally so it needs a listing. It suffers from arguable science (e.g., viruses are non-living), and confusing optics. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Brady, S. and Willard, C. Microscopic Explorations 165 pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $21.00 (MSA members may request a 15% discount) plus $4.00 shipping 1998; revised fourth printing, 2007 978-0-924886-00-3 Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720-5200; 510-642-7771, FAX (510)643-0309. Also available from many school supply catalogs, web booksellers, and the National Science Teachers Association, 800-722-NSTA. Grades 4-8. Recommended http://www.lhs.berkeley.edu/GEMS/GEMS.html A collaboration between the Microscopy Society of America and the LHS has produced an outstanding Great Explorations in Math and Science (GEMS) guide. Its written in festival format, with ten explorations that can be presented simultaneously to circulating groups of students, or separately in the classroom. There is a rich assortment of supplemental information on microscopes and how to buy them, curriculum extensions, further reading, and sources of help. The units are more classic than unique; subjects include crystals, color printing, fingerprints, pond water, brine shrimp, etc. Its uniqueness lies in the carefully written inquiry science presentation of those topics and the thorough classroom testing of content that a GEMS guide receives. It will work well in any classroom; teachers arent expected to have special skills. A Spanish version of the copyable student worksheets is available from the LHS for $12.50. A complete kit of the materials needed to present Microscopic Explorations is be available from Carolina Biological, as item #11-3251; for about $400; contact them at www.carolina.com/GEMS or 800-334-5551. Although the items needed to present any GEMS unit are inexpensive office, supermarket and hardware supplies the list for Microscopic Explorations is long and it takes time to assemble them, so this is a useful option; 8 handheld 30x microscopes and a copy of Microscopic Explorations are included. Since this is a Project MICRO publication, were biased; you may prefer to read independent reviews at http://www.enc.org/resources/records/full/0,1240,014527,00.shtm, the Eisenhower National Clearinghouse (the U.S. Department of Education database) , and http://www.enc.org/resources/records/full/0,1240,014527,00.shtm, the National Science Teachers Association recommendations. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World British Nuclear Fuels plc The Young Detectives 52pp 1995 Out of print. Recommended 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Delta Education. Small Things: An Introduction to the Microscopic World 1987 Out of print 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Hixson, B.K. & Hutson, T.L. Microscopes 65 pp, paperback. 8.5x11 $8.95 1993 Order #WG3004 from the Wild Goose Co., Salt Lake City, UT 84115, 801-466-1172 or order #7373 from Edmund Scientific, 609-547-8880. Ages 10 and up. The subtitle is quite accurate: A comprehensive 3 week course that teaches the proper care and use of a microscope, identification of parts, optics, and several slide preparation techniques. Complete with tests, puzzles, and humorous illustrations. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Matthews, E. The World Right Under Your Nose! 80pp, spiralbound paper, 8.5x11 $19.95 1988 None Order from the author at 13570 S.W. Berthold St. , Beaverton, OR 97005,; Email: Eric Matthews Middle school Recommended This privately-printed manual is organized as a dozen classroom exercises; all are biological. Since topics such as blood cells, cheek cells, onion skin, and mold are included, it can be a useful followup to the beginning provided by Microscopic Explorations. All units have detailed setup instructions, copyable student worksheets, and tests. Two useful supplemental exercises present size estimation and depth of field. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Microscope World Experiments With the Microscope: Teacher Handbook 97pp, 8.5x11, paperback $79.00 with a 66 minute videotape 1992 None From Microscope World, Inc., P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-0528 or 800-942-0528 or Sargent-Welch (item # WL6019J-VHS) at 800-727-4368 Middle and high school http://www.microscopeworld.com This is a comprehensive manual similar to the one described above. A compound microscope is used to study a variety of biological subjects (see tape description in section 3. Around 25 pages are about observation of prepared slides. Theyre good biology, but they arent really experiments with the microscope. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Microscope World Experiments With the Mini-Microscope: Teacher Handbook 52pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $79.00 with a 50 minute videotape 1991 Order from Microscope World, Inc., P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-0528 or 800-942-0528 Middle school - adult Recommended http://www.microscopeworld.com This manual deserves a separate listing; its much more than a supplement to a videotape. Seven classroom sessions are fully supported with advice on lab preparation and procedure, background information, student worksheets, overhead masters, and quizzes. Topics include use of a 30x handheld microscope, measurement, and investigative observation of a variety of objects; see the tape description in section 3. Tape plus manual provide enough material to get a teacher or volunteer started in classroom microscopy. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Museum of Science, Boston Magnification and Microscopes 91pp, spiralbound Rental is $120 + shipping for 5 weeks use; homeschoolers can get a smaller kit for one week for $25. 1997 None The museum address is Science Park, Boston, MA 02114-1099. The manual is included with a rental kit for a class of 30. The kit includes 15 hand lenses, 15 handheld 30x microscopes, one 25-100x compound microscope, and all supplies for 5 weeks of microscopy. Call 800-722-5487 to order Middle school http://www.mos.org/ (select Teacher Resources) The manual included with this kit is well-written; it includes 17 sequenced 4-page lessons on all the basic subjects such as crystals, fingerprints, pond life, sand, and color printing. This kit makes it possible to present a good microworld unit in an isolated, unequipped location. Purchase of the kit materials would cost at least $300, so rental can be a good choice for a one-time presentation. There are suggestions on assessment and copyable worksheets. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World National Science Resources Center Microworlds Student book 61pp, teachers guide 122pp, paperback, 8.5x11 Teachers guide, #97-2702, $9.95; student activity book, #97-2703, $2.50; kit for class of 30, #97-2701, $295.00; Discovery Deck, #97-2799, $.39.95 1991 National Science Resources Center, Smithsonian Institution-National Academy of Sciences, Arts and Industries Bldg, Room 1201, Washington, DC 20560; order from Carolina Biological Supply Co., 2700 York Rd., Burlington NC 27215; 800-334-5551 Grade 5 Recommended This Science and Technology for Children unit would be best for grades 4-6. It contains 16 fully prepared lessons that can be selected for a shorter study. Use of a 30x microscope and observation of a wide variety of specimens are presented well, but the single unit on lenses is both brief and weak. Most of it is exceptionally good, however. For example: the concept of field of view is explained well, and the study of a halftone illustration is followed by a fine analogy with pointillism. The Discovery Deck is a 1997 addition to Microworlds. Its a boxed set of 30 9x12 doublesided cards that provide supplemental information on microscopes, microscopists and microorganisms, plus some classroom activities. It will be useful in a classroom discovery center, for further investigation by individual students. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Ruef, K. The Private Eye 224pp, paperback, 8.5x11 Teachers guide (add $3.50 shipping), $18.95; 5x loupe, $3.95; 10 or more loupes, each $2.30; kit for class of 36 (with 50x microscope), $570.00. 1992 0-9605434-1-4 The Private Eye Project, P.O. Box 646, Lyle, WA 98635; 509-365-3007 Grades K-12 and adult Recommended http://www.the-private-eye.com/ This is listed as a curriculum guide for want of a better place to put it; its unique. An educator would say that its a manual that shows how to use a 5x jewelers loupe to incorporate constructivist science into an integrated curriculum, over the full K-12 grade range. It actually does that, without the use of either scientific or educational jargon (like that in the previous sentence). The central role of imagery in science is used to link science to visual and verbal arts, and magnification is used as the key to observation. Study of simple found objects is followed by descriptive analogy and the development of theory. It lacks specific lesson plans with detailed materials lists, but its a wonderful introduction to the creative use of inquiry science in almost any classroom, by any teacher. Science professionals also can learn from it how to present their specialty in a classroom in a way that will communicate excitement and encourage further inquiry. Useful supporting information is available on the website. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Self, J Microscopic Discoveries 60pp, punched looseleaf, 8.5x11 $12.95 1984 Instructional Materials Equipment Distributors, 1520 Cotner Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90025; 213-879-0377, 213-272-5260 Middle school Selfs guide is more a collection of useful, copyable student worksheets than a fully explained curriculum manual. There are good sections on basic subjects such as pond water, cloth and paper, but some are vague (dust and duff) or arcane (what student will have the opportunity to sketch polar bear hair?). 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Sherer, M. & Isenberg, S. Microscope Study Out of print 1991 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Zook, D. & the Microcosmos Team The Microcosmos Guide to Exploring Microbial Space Out of print; try a used book seller. 1A Curriculum Guides The Microscopic World Baumgartner, R. I Dont Know, Lets Do the Experiment Microscopes, Cells, DNA, and You Web publication only 1996 Downloadable free from the www . Grades 6-10 http://chroma.mbt.washington.edu/outreach/hands_on_science.html The Center for Molecular Biotechnology Outreach Program at the University of Washington has chosen to publish its series of lesson plans on the web. Detailed lesson plans (with materials lists and supply sources) are divided into three groups. The first is an extensive introduction to light microscopes and lens optics; both flashlight style 30x microscopes and standard compound microscopes are used. Basic biological lessons follow, with student-prepared onion skin and pond life samples, plus an introduction to cells using purchased prepared slides. The third segment, a good introduction to DNA, doesnt use microscopy. 1B Curriculum Guides Optics Marson, R Focus Pocus (Science with Simple Things #42) 64 pp, 8x11, paperback $15.00 1996 0-941008-42-8 Order direct from TOPS Learning Systems, 10970 S .Mulino Rd., Canby, OR 97013; 888-773-9755 or tops@canby.com Grades 5-10 Recommended Twenty separate lessons provide a really good introduction to optics. Its good inquiry science, using really simple things like clothespins, jars, and paperclips. The lessons progress from basic refraction to lenses; then lens theory is applied to eyes, projectors, and microscopes. There are lessons on field of view, magnification, and measurement. There are copyable student worksheets, detailed supplies lists and instructions for the teacher, and a good set of test/review questions - with the answers. Its challenging enough for use in high school physics, and clear enough for selective use by a middle school teacher. It would be particularly good for home-school use. 1B Curriculum Guides Optics Optical Society of America, Educational Council Optics Discovery Kit 47pp, 4.5x5, looseleaf, including lenses, polarizers, diffraction grating, flexible mirror, hologram, color filters, and optical fiber. $15.00; classroom kit for 16, $130.00. +$6.00 shipping. 1990 From Edmund Scientific as #39140, or the Optical Society of America, 2010 Massachusetts Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036: For middle and high school. This is an outstanding value on optical supplies, but the instructions are extremely brief; the teachers guide that is supplied with the classroom kit (30pp, 8.5x11) is essential for success in the classroom. Only one of the 11 experiments deals specifically with magnification. The two plastic convex lenses provided could be used to make a low power student-constructed compound microscope. The concept of lens power, however, would be easier to understand if the lenses were of the same diameter. 1B Curriculum Guides Optics Sneider, C.I. & Gould, A. More than Magnifiers 48pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $10.50 1988 0-912511-62-1 Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720; 510-642-1016. Also available from the National Science Teachers Association, 800-772-NSTA, and most booksellers. For grades 6-9 Recommended http://www.lhs.berkeley.edu/GEMS/GEMS.html This is a Great Explorations in Math and Science (GEMS) teachers manual. It is a tested collection of inquiry-method optical experiments that uses the same pair of lenses to demonstrate the basic optic principles of magnifiers, cameras, telescopes, and projectors. A complete kit of the materials needed to present More than Magnifiers (including a copy of the manual) will be available soon from Carolina Biological, as item #11-4801; it will cost $168.50. Although the items needed to present any GEMS unit are inexpensive office, supermarket and hardware supplies (plus, in this case, specific lenses) it takes time to assemble them, so this is a useful option. Contact Carolina at www.carolina.com/GEMS or 800-334-5551. 1B Curriculum Guides Optics The National Learning Center, Washington, D.C. Lenses and Mirrors 125pp, paperback, 8.5x11 #5D-438-4600 teachers guide, $27.98, #58-738-4607 kit for 30, $ 399.00 1994, revised 1997 ISBN 0-87504-115-9 From Delta; a Delta Science Module II. 800-442-5444. For grades 5-6. This revised and radically expanded teachers guide has 11 units; one studies lenses and three look at image formation by a single lens and the eye. There are copyable worksheets and advice on assessment. The projects could provide a curriculum unit or enrichment for individual students who develop an interest in optics. 1B Curriculum Guides Optics Neo/SCI Intel Play QX3 Computer Microscope, School Edition: Curriculum Guide Manual : 8.5x11, 176 pp, spiralbound. Packaged with a software CD-ROM for either Windows or Mac, and 4 prepared slides; not available separately. Windows: 98 or later, USB port. Mac: OS 8.6-9.2.2, 300MHz G3 or faster, USB port. $79.95 2001, 2003 QX3 school upgrade # E2-55-2001 from Neo/SCI Corp., PO Box 22729, Rochester NY 14692-2729, 800-657-6689. Upper middle & high school www.neosci.com The QX3 is a n inexpensive (about $100) computer-linked microscope. It was designed and introduced by Intel, but is now produced as the QX3+ by Digital Blue (http://www.playdigitalblue.com/products/qx3/main) It was originally marketed as a toy, but several adult users have expanded its use; see http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/artjan00/jhqx3.html. Neo/SCI has developed software and a manual to greatly expand its classroom usefulness. Macintosh users have been frustrated by the lack of QX3 interface software; Neo/SCIs new (2003) CD is welcome. The manual begins with 20 pages of advice on microscope operation and image manipulation. Over 140 pages present 36 activities, divided into commonly used curriculum units (cells, forensics, ecology, earth science, etc.); each activity is further divided into teacher instructions and copyable student worksheets. 200 images on the CD support the various activities. There are 5 pages of detailed correlation of each exercise to the National Science Education Standards, which will help a teacher fit the materiel into a requirements-driven curriculum. This kit can provide home schoolers with an adequate computer with some good laboratory science. The QX3 will still be limited to demonstration usage n the classroom by the one scope - one computer linkage; few classrooms have multiple recent computers, and school computer labs wont like wet lab microscope use. NeoScis Macintosh software only works with OS 8.6-9.22; free framegrabber software for OS 10.1.5 and higher is available at http://homepage.mac.com/aireck/ . 1C Curriculum Guides Optics Delly, J.G. Teaching Microscopy 264pp, hardbound, 5.5x8.5 $45.00 2nd ed., 1994 ISBN 0-904962-14-8 Microscope Publications, 2820 South Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60616-3292. Adult. This book is intended for professional microscopists who want to teach. The three-chapter section on Microscopy courses for young people gives suggested course outlines for elementary, middle, and high school. It give the microscopist who wants to organize a multi-session class for a club, scout troop, or Saturday Academy ideas, but no detailed lessons. 1D Curriculum Guides Teaching Microscopy Abramowitz, M. Microscope: Basics and Beyond 26 pp, paperback, 7x10, packaged with The Basic Microscope, Use and Care, 19 minute VHS video. $20.00. 1985 Olympus Corp., Precision Instrument Division, 4 Nevada Dr., Lake Success, NY 11042-1179, 516-488-3880, or local Olympus dealers. Adult. The teacher who has access to a standard binocular microscope with a rotating nosepiece will be able to set it up with the information provided. The optical diagrams in the text are too complex for classroom use and the video presents one current Olympus model, but its still useful. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Bleifeld, M. Experimenting With a Microscope 110pp, hardbound, 6x9 1988 Out of print; try a used book dealer. Probably grades 6-9. This is a supplemental book that can provide some good ideas on slidemaking and looking at everyday objects, but parts of the text are less useful. The description of the electron microscope is confusing, advice on compound microscope use is inadequate, and two of the suggested exercises (with butterflies and goldfish) require close adult supervision to avoid cruelty to animals. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Bleifield, M Experimenting with a Microscope 110 pgs, 6x9, hardbound $12.00 ($1,00 used) 1988 0531105806 Venture Books Grades 5-8 Recommended Introductory microscopy hasnt changed since this book was published in 88. Its still clearly written advice on how to use a compound microscope, and how to prepare common specimens. Its a bargain, and there are even new copies still available on the internet. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Bowman, D., Buckley, P., Francis, R., and Suiter, K. Scope It Out: Standards-Based Microscope Lessons for the Middle School 56pp, 8.5x11, spiralbound $5.00 1996 Published by the Appalachia Educational Laboratory, PO Box 1348, Charleston WV 25325-1348, 800-624--9120, aelinfo@ael.org, www.ael.org Middle school.teachers Specific attention to educational research supporting inquiry science, the national science education standards, the unique advantages of microscopes in teaching science, ways to assess student performance, and classroom lab safety combine to make this a valuable resource for the teacher who wants to upgrade a science program. The references and appendices all relate to those topics. The remaining 30 pages contain over 20 single-page lesson plans written and tested by teachers in Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia; many can be used as extensions of the introduction provided by Microscopic Explorations. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Carryl, F. How To Use a Light Microscope 85pp, 5.5x8.5, paperback $7.30 1985 From F.M.Carryl, 134 Bruton St., Decatur, GA, 30030, 404-373-4658, or order #32-W-1216 from Wards Natural Science, PO Box 5010, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403-5010; 800-962-2660. Adult. A compact manual covering all aspects of basic microscopy. The subject is approached via definitions of technical terminology, which could help a teacher who has access to a research-grade light microscope. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Dyson, J., Evenett, P., and Hammond, C. The Beginners Microscope 30pp, 6x8, paperback #2.00 including mail (check to RMS Microscopes for Schools) 2000 Orderable only within England, from Chris Hammond, Dept. of Materials, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT. Adult Recommended The Royal Microscoical Society has published a simple, helpful guide to RMS-approved school microscopes ( 15-25x monocular dissecting scopes with metal body and rack-and-pinion focusing), plus information on where to find specimens and how to prepare them. Its jargon-free and easy to understand. The supplier data wont help in the USA; refer to the MICRO website for American sources. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Kimel, L. MiniScope Teachers Guide and Lesson Plan 22pp, paperback, 8.5x11, $10.70 1970 Order #95-3731-W from Carolina Biological, 800-334-5551 Grades 4-6. The Mini-Scope is a low cost ($8.50, from Carolina) student-assembled single lens microscope; this book contains objectives and detailed lessons for eight weeks of work. In addition to the usual biological exercises, there are good units on textile fibers and crystal growing. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Leonard, W.H. A Practical Guide for Microscope Use and Care 25pp, paperback. 8.5x11 $10.00 1994 Order from Swift Instruments, Inc., P.O. Box 562, San Jose. CA 95106; 408-293-2380 or 800-523-4544. Adult. Swift is a major manufacturer of school microscopes; this clearly written manual provides good advice on the use and care of dissecting and compound microscopes. Although it will benefit Swift owners most, its written in general terms. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Levine, S & Johnstone, L. Fun with Your Microscope 1998 Out of print; see Levine, S. & Johnstone, L. 2002 Science Experiments with a Microscope 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Levine, S. & Johnstone, L. Fun With Your Microscope 80 pgs, 8x10, paperback $9.00 (used) 1998 0-8069-9946-2 Sterling Publishing Co. Age 9-12 Recommended The same authors have two other very similar books; all are useful, but theyre so similar that one is enough. The micrographs are particularly helpful, because they show specimens prepared according to the directions in the book, rather than professional examplews. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Levine, S. & Johnstone, L. Science Experiments with a Microscope 80pp, hardbound, 8x10 $10.05 2002 0-8069-8971-8 Sterling Publishing Co., NY. Middle school. This is an unrevised paperback reprint of the out-of-print 1998 hardback Fun with Your Microscope. The same authors published the excellent The Microscope Book in 96; it has the same format, length, and publisher, and much of the content is similar. Its not clear if this is intended as a revision, since the earlier book isnt even cited. This one has less information on the microscope itself and the same useful advice on specimen preparation, including how to build a hand microtome. There are detailed materials list and instructions with each exercise. The three dozen observations are mostly biological and they arent exact duplicates of The Microscope Book. Theyre illustrated with color micrographs of samples prepared with the simple preparation methods described in the book, which is a big help for the beginning microscopist. All of the micrograph magnifications, however, are presented in a confusing manner; who can interpret a caption like ...coin at 31.25x - enlarged? A few magnifications are simply incorrect, by a factor of 10. Although there are Science Fair suggestions, a glossary, and a good index, theres no bibliography. The earlier book, which is still in print, is a better choice. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Levine, S. & Johnstone, L. The Microscope Book 80pp, paperback, 8x10 $10.05 1996 0-8069-4898-1 Sterling Publishing Co., NY. Middle school. Recommended Few current books equal this one as a general introduction to microscopes and microscopy for middle school students. Over three dozen clearly written exercises include materials lists, step-by-step instructions, and explanation. A third of the book is devoted to optical principles, including such frequently ignored topics as field of view, measurement, and depth of focus. Another third is biology (including making a hand microtome and a well slide), and eight exercises present geology, crystal growing, forensics, and air pollutants. Good line drawings and color photomicrographs are used generously. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Marson, R. TOPScope! 20pp, paperback, 4x5.5 $3.00 (#101), or $5.00 with 2 lenses (#101-103) 1997 TOPS Learning Systems, 10970 S. Mulino Rd., Canby, OR 97013; 888-773-9755. Inquiries: tops@canby.com Grades 6-12. Recommended Most homebuilt microscopes are a bit complicated to make, but this booklet provides a clever design for a 25x simple microscope that really works. Its made from a $.50 lens, a lens mount copied from the booklet, two Mason jar top rings, and a baby food jar. The booklet also has good advice on classroom use and specimen prep. This would make an excellent low-cost class project, requiring just one booklet per class plus a lens (available from TOPS) for each student. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Molitor,D.L. Fun at Forty Power; Microscope Projects for Beginners 43pp, paperback, 5.5x8.5 $2.00 1983, 1991 0-9629834-0-3 The Lab Bench, 21 Morningside Dr., St. Paul, MN 55119-5006; 612-730-7184. Grade 6-adult. Recommended This inexpensive, useful pamphlet includes a brief description of preparation methods for a variety of specimens including unique suggestions for preparation of surface replicas using drugstore supplies and section stain from a tropical fish store. Its a supplemental teachers manual. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Nachtigall, W. Exploring With the Microscope 160 pp. paperback 6.5x9.5 $14.05 1995 0-8069-0866-1 Sterling Publishing Co., NY. Adult. Recommended Although this book is intended for adult amateur microscopists, it is well written and will provide teachers and classroom volunteers with much useful information on serious light microscopy; its unequalled as a basic reference for beginners. Almost half of the book is devoted to simple preparation methods for biological specimens and descriptions (with good illustrations) of commonly encountered organisms. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Neo/SCI Exploring with a Microscope: Investigation 8.5x11 , 17 pp paperback+ 26 looseleaf copyable student worksheets. Packaged with a class materials kit (supplies only; no microscopes). $62.95 1999 # 20-1063 from Neo/SCI Corp., PO Box 22729, Rochester NY 14692-2729, 800-657-6689. Middle school www.neosci.com The manual contains clear instructions on making a water-drop microscope, using a basic compound microscope, preparing slides, and making simple measurements. The kit includes a box of slides, coverslips, methylene blue, polarizing materiel, a few feathers, etc. A hand microtome is included, but there is no advice on its use. Its a nice assortment, but a questionable value for the price. Neo/SCI also has a CD-ROM with the same title; it can be used to supplement this kit. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Petersen, C. The Microscope 8 x 9, paperback,80 pp. $9.95 2006 0-531-13902-6 Franklin Watts/Scholastic Middle & high school Recommended www.scholastic.com/library publishing This excellent book is part of the series Inventions that shaped the world. It goes well beyond Leeuwenhoek and places microscopy accurately within history, from the ancient Greeks to the present. The many uses of microscopy and various new types of microscopes are described. Its well written and illustrated and has references, a glossary, and a good index. BUT a seriously incorrect description of transmission electron microscope optics keeps it from being highly recommended; a purchaser should remove pages 61-62. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Rogers, K. The Usborne Complete Book of the Microscope 96pp, 8.5x11, paperback ~ $10.00 Usborne, 1998 ; Scholastic, 2001 Usborne, 0-7460-3106-8 ; Scholastic, 0-439-43136-0 Usborne Publishing Co. Ltd./EDC Publishing, Tulsa, OK., & Scholastic, Inc. Middle and high school. Recommended Usborne books have an earned reputation for good design and spectacular illustrations; this one is no exception. It isnt just a pretty face; its full of accurate, well-written information on microscopes, simple preparation methods, and the microworld. Most of the excellent micrographs are colorized (its well done and is explained), and magnifications are given for almost all of them. Subjects will interest the young beginner: common objects, crystals, the human body, bugs, rocks, simple nanotechnology. It concludes with a bit of history, advice on buying a first microscope, a glossary, and a good index. Scholastic, Inc. has reprinted this book as The Usborne Internet-Linked Complete Book of the Microscope. The cover says only available for the school market, but its easily orderable. The many website links are really good (several have been added to MICROs bibliography); theyre accessed via a publishers website. Hopefully, this should keep them current. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Science Kits & Boreal Laboratories Boreal Microscope Manual 46pp, 8.5x11, paperback $12.95 1998 Order #55841-30 from Science Kits & B0real Laboratories , Tonawanda, NY & San Luis Obispo, CA, 800-828-7777 or St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, 800-387-9393 High school Although specific SK & BL microscopes are featured (3 compound with illuminators, 2 stereo dissecting), many school scopes are so similar that the excellent care and use instructions and full page drawings will be useful with many others. Theres a 10 page student workbook on microscope use, plus quiz pages for scope components. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Stevens, M.B. The Microscope on a Budget 247pp, 5.5x8.5, paperback $13.00 1993 0-9638839-1-7 Logical Image Research, P.O.Box 1523, Buda, TX 78610. Also available from Nasco, 4825 Stoddard Rd., Modesto, CA 95356-9318 as #SB23799M; 800-558-9595. High school - adult. Subtitled a complete guide to the low cost light microscope for the laboratory, photographers, and hobbyists, this book delivers solid information; its a good buy. Homemade equipment (including exciting but seldom-discussed things like darkfield and Rhineberg illumination) is described in detail for the low-budget teacher or (adult-supervised) student. Both basic biological microtechnique and microcrystal preparation are described in detail. There are photography, supply source, reference, glossary, and index sections. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Stewart, G. Microscopes: Bringing the Unseen World into Focus 96pp, hardback, 7x10 $19.95 1992 1-56006-211-8 From Lucent Books, Inc., P.O.Box 289011, San Diego, CA 92198-9011; 800-231-5163. Grades 5-8. Recommended The Encyclopedia of Discovery and Invention is a collection of two dozen slim volumes on selected topics. This one fills a gap in childrens literature on microscopy; it traces the history of microscopes in a well-written account that stresses the importance of microscopy in the development of our understanding of disease. Electron microscopes and some of the newer methods are included. There are minor errors in the chapters on the new microscopies, and the explanations of optical theory are brief, but neither problem diminishes the usefulness of this book. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Stewart, G.B. Microscopes 48 pgs, 6x9, hardbound $2.00 (used) 2003 0-7377-0945-6 KidHaven Press 3-6 www.gale.com/kidhaven This inexpensive, easy- to- read book provides a brief introduction to the history of microscopy. There are minor errors of fact 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Stwertka, E. & Stwertka, A. Microscope: How to Use It and Enjoy It 78 pgs, 6x9, paperbacki $2.50 (used) 1988 0671670603 Julian Messner Publishers Age 9-12 Although this book is out of print, its still available on the internet at a bargain price. Its a simple, brief introduction to compound microscope use and slide preparation. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Woog, A. Great Medical Discoveries: The Microscope 128 pgs, 7x9, hardback $5.60 (used) 2004 1-59018-302-9 Lucent Books High school Recommended www.gale.com/lucent About half of this book is devoted to microscopy. There is a good historical introduction, and light and electron microscope optics are explained well WITHOUT ray path diagrams or equations, which is a big help for a young beginner. Even some of the newest microscopies (scanning tunneling, confocal) are described. There is an extensive bibliography. But the other half of the book is about medecine, and topics like genetic engineering, robotics, and microsurgery that have little or no connection to microscopy are included. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Young, M. The Microscope: a Buyers/Owners Guide. 21pp, 6x9, paperback $1.00 1992 Edmund Scientific #37238; 101 E. Gloucester Pike, Barrington, NJ 08007-1380; 609-547-8880. High school. Component parts, operation, and care of a simple student compound microscope are described clearly and briefly. There is a useful glossary of optical terms. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Richardson, A Microscopes 24 pgs, 8x8, hardbound $7.60 (used) 2004 0-7368-2517-7 Capstone Press Elementary www.capstonepress.com Although this book is formatted as an easy reader, it shows compound microscopes - which arent useful in the primary grades. It doesnt provide enough information for the teacher who wants to use the explorations suggested. The included publishers website offers no relev ant links. 2A Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Rainis, K.G. Microscope Science Projects and Experiments: Magnifying the Hidden World 128 pgs, 6x9, hardback $19.50 2003 0-7660-2090-8 Enslow Publishers, Inc. Middle school Recommended www.enslow.com Many microscopes sit idle because their young owners dont know what to do with them. This book is full of solid information. A quarter of the text introduces basic optics and microscope use; the remainder is a wide variety of studies which are formatted as investigations that can be middle school science fair projects. Plants, protists, pencils, fibers, feathers, etc. all get attention. Many of its method illustrations are repeated in the authors Cell and Microbe Science Fair Projects. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Alcamo, I.E. MicroGames and Puzzles 59pp, 8.5x11, paperback $15.95 1995 0-89863-184-X Star Publishing Company Adult. Micro in this title means microbiology rather than microscopy or the wider microworld. Its mostly crossword puzzles; a few are simple enough for high school, but its more suitable for college-level microbiology. The one microscopy puzzle requires advanced knowledge. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Anderson, R. and Druger, M., eds. Explore the World Using Protozoa 240pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $29.95 1997 0-87355-159-1 Order #PB137X from the National Science Teachers Association, 800-722-NSTA. High school. Recommended http://www.nsta.org.pubs The NSTA has collaborated with the Society of Protozoologists to produce a selective, reviewed collection of 28 investigations; microscopes are the only specialty equipment required. This manual shows how to present an entire live biology class (morphology, physiology, ecology, ethology, taxonomy - everything!) with protozoa. Its intended for grades 9 and up, but parts can be adapted for use as a middle school supplement. More information is available at the NSTA website . 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Bender, l. Atoms and Cells Through the Microscope 1989,1993 Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Bial, R. A Handful of Dirt 32 pgs, 10x8, hardbound $11.00 2000 0-8027-8698-7 Walker & Company Elementary There are only four micrographs among the beautiful photos in this childrens book about soil ecology, but its thought-provoking text will encourage an inquiring child to look closely at their everyday world. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Bodanis, D. The Secret Garden: Dawn to Dusk in the Astonishing Hidden World of the Garden 1992 Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Boudart, J. Microscopic Investigations: Insects & Spiders 8.5x11 paperback, 32 pp $2.98 2001 1-56911-744-6 Order directly from Learning Resources, (800)222-3909 Age 8-11, grades 3-6 www.learningresources.com This collection of seven investigations has advice for teachers, copyable student worksheets, and quizzes. Most of the observation doesnt require a microscope; a magnifying glass will do. There is a heavy emphasis on vocabulary (which is too complex for grades 3-4); a textbook will be needed to develop understanding. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Boudart, J. Microscopic Investigations: Plant Biology 8.5x11 paperback, 32 pp $2.98 2001 1-56911-745-4 Order directly from Learning Resources, (800)222-3909 Age 8-11, grades 3-6 www.learningresources.com This collection of seven investigations has advice for teachers, copyable student worksheets, and quizzes. Most of the observation doesnt require a microscope; a magnifying glass will do. There is a heavy emphasis on vocabulary (which is too complex for grades 3-4); a textbook will be needed to develop understanding. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Breger, D. Journeys in Microspace 201pp, 8.5x11, hardback $46.00 1995 0-231-08252-5 Columbia University Press, NY, NY All ages. The subtitle, The Art of the Scanning Electron Microscope, describes Dee Bregers book accurately. Although there is extensive documentation, the over 200 images were selected for their aesthetics rather than for their scientific content. An introductory eight image sequence of a feather at increasing magnification can be useful in the classroom, but this beautiful book will be at home on a coffee table. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Breger, D. Through the Electronic Looking Glass 68pp, 8x8 $19.95 plus postage. 1995 0-942927-90-7 Available from Cygnus Graphic, P.O. Box 32461, Phoenix, AZ 85064-2461, 602-279-7658, or internet booksellers. All ages. All ages. This interesting little book is subtitled 3D Images from a Scanning Electron Microscope. Thirty images are presented in red-blue stereo (two pairs of glasses are included). Very effective, if you can see stereo (this reviewer cannot!). Subjects have been selected for their stereo effect and include hair, velcro, bugs, microfossils, etc. The text explains SEM, stereo, and each image well. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Buckman, R. Human Wildlife: the Life That Lives On Us 9x9, 203 pp, paperback $14.00 2003 0-8018-7407-6 Johns Hopkins University Press Adult www.press.jhu.edu Children love gross things, and this book is full of them in striking, well-photographed detail. There are photographs and light and electron micrographs of fleas, ticks, mosquitos, etc. that will fascinate, but the photos of things like worms and botflies are sure to frighten children; a teacher will need to select with care. The text is friendly, informative, and well-written. The photo credits are informative, but microscopy would have been better served with more information on the magnifications of the micrographs, and on the artificial colorization used in some of the scanning electron micrographs. There is a good index. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Burgess, J., Marten, M., and Taylor, R. Microcosmos 1987 Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Burnie, D. Microlife 44pp, 8.5 x 11, hardback $12.95. 1997 0-7894--2036-8 Available only from the publisher or homeschool book groups: DK Family Learning, 1706 Heil Quaker Blvd., LaVergne, TN 37086, 800-352-6651. Middle and high school. The Dorling Kindersley guides are beautifully illustrated; this one has 15 two-page spreads of bacteria, viruses, bread mold, dust mites, pollen, pond life, etc. The brief text is accurate, but no magnifications are given. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Canault, N. Incredibly Small 47pp, 8.5x11, hardback 1993 0-02-716455-1 Out of print; try a used book dealer. All ages. Many SEM picture books are just collections of ugly bugs, with no useful educational content; this is an excellent exception. The psudocoloring is explained, and real life colors are used. Three dozen everyday objects are presented, such as salt, sugar, dust, dog hair, polystyrene, and pollen. All are put into context with unmagnified photos and intelligent text. There are a few confusing translations from the original French text (e.g., pollen is the male seed of a flower). 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Church, J. Beakman & Jaxs Microscope Book 1995 Out of print, fortunately. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Cobb, V. Blood and Gore - Like You Have Never Seen Before 32pp. 9x9, paperback $4.99 1997 0-590-92665-9 Scholastic/Arrow Book Club, P.O.Box 7503, Jefferson City, MO 65102-7503; 800-724-6527. Middle school. There are over 60 light and electron micrographs; half of them are by Dennis Kunkel, coauthor of the popular MicroAliens. All are in pseudocolor; some of the coloring is natural, but a lot isnt. Its an inexpensive, clearly written introduction to human histology, and the micrograph of a smokers lung presents a powerful message. Most of the micrograph magnifications are seriously exaggerated 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Cobb, V. Dirt and Grime 33pp. 9x9, paperback $4.99 1998 0-590-92666-7 Scholastic/Arrow Book Club, P.O.Box 7503, Jefferson City, MO 65102-7503; 800-724-6527. Middle school. Many colorized micrographs dramatize the home microworld (dust, germs, mold, bugs, garbage, etc.). One of the few non-SEM images (viruses) is identified as a SEM image, and most of the micrograph magnifications are seriously exaggerated. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Dabdoub , R. Micro Art 128pp, 10.3x7.3 $19.95 2003 1589800737 Pelican Publishing All ages Not yet reviewed. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Discovery Scope, Inc. Activity Booklets 6-15pp each, paperback, 5.5x8.5 $3.00 each. 1992 Discovery Scope, Inc. , 3202 Echo Mountain Drive, Kingwood, TX 77345, 800-398-5404 Middle school-adult. Titles available in this series are: Investigating Wetlands, Investigating Arthropods, Investigating Seashore Life, Investigating Termites, Investigating Protozoans, and Macrophotography. Theyre well written but relatively expensive, considering their brevity; all emphasize the handheld Discovery Scope and its accessories.. The photography booklet is particularly useful and is recommended for the teacher or advanced student who wants to do still or video photos. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Eames, C. and Eames, R. Powers of Ten 78pp. 6x4 paperback $9.95 1998 0-7167-3441-9 Optical Toys, P.O. Box 23, Putney, VT 05346 and W.H. Freeman, 41 Madison Ave., NY,NY 10010 Middle school-adult. Recommended Powers of Ten is a classic that appeared first in 1978 as a 16mm movie. That was followed by a book (see Morrison), then a video version of the movie (listed). The newest member of the family is this flipbook of the images, from the galaxy to a proton; its a lot of fun. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Edwards, F.B. & Aziz, L. Closeup: Microscopic Photographs of Everyday Stuff 48pp,paperback, 8x8 $6.95 1992 0-921285-24-8 Bungalo Books, PO Box 1338 Elliott Station, Buffalo, NY 14205. All ages. Recommended Twenty one common objects are presented as guess what this is scanning electron micrographs. Its an interesting assortment, including popcorn, candy, velcro and polystyrene foam, as well as the usual insects and flowers. The low cost would makes it a useful supplement for a SEM lab tour. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Ewing, W.A. Inside Information: Imaging the Human Body 1997 Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Gikow, L.A. Up Close: a Chapter Book 48 pgs, 6x9, paperback $4.95 2004 0-516-23729-2 Childrens Press, Scholastic Elementary The four chapters in this small book present Leeuwenhoek plus four living scientists who use microscopes. Unfortunately, the text doesnt explain the microscopy well. For example, a photo captioned With a SEM, the magnified object is seen on a computer screen shows a LIGHT microscope. A teacher who wants a role model book will do much berrer with Kramers Hidden Worlds, which features one of the three described here. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Grave, E.V. Using the Microscope: a Guide for Naturalists 201pp, paperback, 6.5x9 $9.95 1984, 1991 0-486-26916-7 Out of print; try a used book dealer. Recommended This is a well-illustrated introduction to amateur microscopy, originally published as Discover the Invisible by Prentice-Hall. The first 80 pages are a sophisticated introduction to the basic compound microscope; photomicrography is included. Gives a brief history of the early microscopists. Identifies many of the more common microbes, and chapters 3 and 4 have good suggestions for crystal observation. Adult. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Greenaway, T. 3D Eyewitness: Microlife 56 pp, paperback, 6x13 $16.95 1998 0-7894-3454-7 Dorling Kindersley. Out of print; try a used book dealer. All ages. The DK 3D Eyewitness series uses an (included) mirror viewer to produce excellent full-color (some artificial, some real) stereo. This volume has 30 photos of a varity of subjects. In addition to the inevitable insects, there are crystals, house dust, fibers, molds, plant parts, and small invertebrates. All are supported by text and supplemental photos, but, regrettably, there is no magnification information. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Headstrom, R. Adventures With a Hand Lens, Adventures with a Microscope, and Nature Discoveries with a Hand Lens 1941-1968 Dover; Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Horton, C. Animals (Under the Microscope) 32pp, hardback, 8x10 $22.60 1997 0-8368-1605-6 Gareth Stevens Publications, 1555 N. RiverCenter Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53212, 800-542-2595 Elementary school. Thirteen full page images are provided., each with an accompanying text page. Some are macrophotos, some are LM, some are SEM; the imaging mode for each isnt identified and there is no magnification information. Several images (e.g., intestinal villi, sections of an armadillo plate and a rhinoceros horn) arent explained well, and the glossary of technical terms isnt complete. Other titles in the Under the Microscope series are Forests, Insects, Ocean Life, Our Backyard, Our Bodies, Our Food, and Our Home; they have not been reviewed. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Horton, C. Under the Microscope: Ocean Life 32 pgs, 7x10, hardbound $1.00 (used) 1997 0-8368-1606-4 Gareth Stevens Publishing Elementary http://gsinc.com Some of the twelve images in this book for young readers are microscopy and some are macrophotography. There are no context photos or drawings to make the macro images understandable. There are multiple text errors; for example, sea urchin eggs are said to be in the MALE reproductive organ. A teacher who wants to study plankton will find real information in the fine three book series Sea Soup, from Tilbury House Publishers, www.tilburyhouse.com. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Janulewicz, M. Yikes: Your Body, Up Close 30pp. 10x10 hardback $15.00 1997 0-689-81520-4 Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Out of print; try a used book dealer. Ages 5-10. SEM images, mostly of human body parts, make an eyecatching volume. The text is interesting and jargon-free. Regrettably, the rather arbitrary colorizing of the images isnt explained, as in so many other books of the same genre, and there is no information on the magnifications used. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Johnson,G., Bleifeld, M., & Beller,G. Hunting With the Microscope 137pp, 5x8 $5.25 1985 0-668-04783-6 Arco Publ. Co. Out of print; try a used book dealer. Grades 8-12. This is a book of uneven quality. Really excellent advice on the selection of a magnifier or a student microscope is followed by a poorly written and illustrated description of electron microscopes. A nice, chatty description of pond organisms is marred by the description of a rotifer as having the amazingly girlish name of Melicerta. Very interesting chapters on microscopic detective work and detecting pollution have poor illustrations. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Johnson, K. and White, J.R. Whats with the Mutant in the Microscope: Stuff to Know When Science Says Your Uncle is a Monkey 142 pp, 5x8, paperback $7.99 1999 0-7642-2187-6 Bethany House Teen - young adult. The only microscope here is the word in the title; its actually a creationist analysis of evolutionary theory. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Jones, C. & Ball, A. Close-Up 64 pp, 6x6, hardback 5.95 pounds (USA currently $9.50) 2004 0-565-09172-7 Published by the Natural History Museum, London; available online. Any About 30 excellent scanning electron micrographs are presented; half are insects and most are colorized. Each has a paragraph of informative text. The vocabulary is adult, and a high school level of biological knowledge is assumed. There is no table of contents, index, or glossary. Younger children will enjoy the well-photographed bugs. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Kramer, S. and D. Kunkel, photographer Hidden Worlds: Looking Through a Scientists Microscope 57 pp, paperback, 11 x 8.5 $5.95 2001 0-618-35405-0 Houghton Mifflin Co., 215 Park Ave. South, New York,NY, 10003 Grade 4-8 Recommended www.houghtonmifflinbooks.com Hidden Worlds is an award-winning ( and low cost!) book about the excitement of observation and the beauty of the microworld. The micrographs are excellent, and the types of light and electron microscopes used to produce them are described clearly, without technical jargon. Chapter titles include Becoming a Scientist, Working as a Scientist, Seeing Hidden Worlds in Nature, and How to Become a Scientist. Its dramatic presentation and readable text will capture the imagination of the children who read it. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Lankford, D., Alderson,J., Kemp, F., and Milum, L. Scoping Things Out 8.5x11, spiral bound $14.95 1990 Ken-A-Vision, Inc., 5615 Raytown Road, Kansas City, MO 64133, 816-353-4787; available from Nasco as # SB27634M; 800-558-9595 Mostly high school. Although the subtitle is the Ken-A-Vision lab activity book its emphasis is entirely lab activities rather than that companys video projection system. There are 19 biological science and 4 physical science exercises, each with a detailed two page treatment (one page of each is a copyable student worksheet). Some are simple (look at cork), but many are not (Gram staining of bacteria). 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Levine, S., Humphrey, E. and Johnstone, L. 3-D Bees and Micro Fleas 48pp, paperback, 8x8 $9.99 1999 1-894042-18-2 Somerville House Books. Out of print; second edition in preparation. Ages 8-12. Good stereo is a visual delight, and a fine way to encourage enthusiasm for the microworld. This book delivers, because the 24 inage pairs are in full color, viewed with an (included) folding prism viewer which produces good stereo. The well-written, informative text presents 13 different insects, plus many related activities. But there are problems. The striking full color is artificial, since all the images are taken with a scanning electron microscope - and that isnt explained. Sizes are given with micrometer scale bars, which young readers wont understand, in spite of a brief introductary explanation. The cover promises magnifications up to 400,000 times, yet no pair even reaches 400x. Nevertheless, with adequate teacher guidance it could be a helpful supplement to insect study. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Levine, S., Humphrey, E. and Johnstone, L. 3-D Lungs and Micro Tongues 48pp, paperback, 8x8 $9.99 1999 1-894042-16-6 Somerville House Books, 3080 Yonge St., #5000, Toronto, Ontario M4N 3N1, Canada. Out of print; second edition in preparation. Ages 8-12. This companion to 3-D Bees and Micro Fleas (described ) is identical to it in format, virtues, and faults. The topics here are crystals, plants, small invertebrates, fish, more insects, spiders, bacteria, and vertebrate lung and red blood cells. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Levine, S., Johnstone, L., & Humphrey, E. Extreme 3-D: Scary Bugs, Extreme 3-D: Wierd Animals, Extreme 3-D: Your Body 8.5 x 11, 48 pp, hardbound $ 14.95 each 2005 1-59223-365-1, 1-59223-364-3, 1-59223-366-x Silver Dolphin Books 8 - adult Recommended www.silverdolphinbooks.com Shar Levine and Leslie Johnstone have written some of the best childrens how-to microscopy books. For this new series they are joined by electron microscopist Elaine Humphrey. The result is a series of far better quality than the various ugly bug picture books that were published in the 90s. Bugs includes insects, spiders, and millipedes, weird animals are invertebrates, several phyla of vertebrates, and tarantulas, and body has body parts plus parasites and bacteria. The micrographs are excellent, the red-green stereo is effective, and the text is well-written and informative. The books are well-made; the binding and 3-D glasses are more durable than most. All three use the same four page explanation of stereo vision and microscopy. Two pages are devoted to each topic; the high magnification images are supported by text and several low magnification views of the organism. Since the low power images arent 3-D, even those with stereo vision problems will find the books interesting. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Loewer, P. Pond Water Zoo 90pp, 7x9, hardback $16.00 1996 0-689-31736-0 Athenium Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster. Out of print; try a used book dealer. Middle school. This is a well-written natural history of commonly encountered pond life, from monera to micro-arthropods. The illustrations are excellent black and white drawings, and its written for young readers without being simplistic. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Lovett, S. Extremely Wierd Micro Monsters 48pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $9.95 1993 1-56261-120-8 John Muir Publications. Out of print. Middle school-adult. A variety of microorganisms, from viruses to insects, are covered; the images are psudocolored. Theyve been selected for visual impact; most (e.g., tapeworm, tardigrade) wont be seen by the average student, but theyre delightfully ugly. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Morrison, P. & Morrison, P. Powers of Ten 159pp, paperback, 8.5x9 $19.95 1985 0-7167-6003-7 A Scientific American Library book from W. H. Freeman & Co., 41 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10010. All ages. The usual sequence was reversed with this book; it was written after the success of the 16mm movie of the same name (now a video; see section 3. Its written for adults but is listed here because its a useful teacher reference for use with the tape. See Eames (above) for a companion flipbook. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World National Association of Biology Teachers Meet the Microbes through the Microworld Activities 65 pp pdf, 8.25x11 Free download. 1999 0-941212-25-1 The American Society for Microbiology has made this manual available on its website. Middle and high school. Recommended http://www.microbeworld.org/mlc/pages/activities.asp Seventeen activities are provided as separate pdfs, which makes downloading quick and easy, even without a high speed connection. Its well-written and thoroughly classroom-tested, with complete materiels lists and detailed instructions. Only one unit (Puddles) emphasizes microscopy, but its RECOMMENDED anyway. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Norden,B. & Ruschak, l. Magnification. 1993 Out of print, unfortunately. Recommended 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Oxlade, C. & Stockley, C. The World of the Microscope 48pp, paperback, 8x10 $8.95 1989 0-7460-0289-0 Usborne Publishing Ltd.; in the U.S., from EDC Publishing, 10302 E. 55th Pl., Tulsa, OK 74146. Order #081526 from Cuisenaire,, P.O.Box 5026, White Plains, NY 10602-5026; 800-237-0338. Approximately grades 6-9. A well-illustrated (several color drawings on each page) do-it-yourself student manual. The emphasis is on observation, with both biological and physical science projects. Proper use of a student compound microscope and simple specimen preparation methods are described. Optics are discussed briefly, but there are no optical experiments. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Rainis, K.G. Cell and Microbe Science Fair Projects: Using Microscopes, Mold, and More 128 pgs, 6x9, hardback $26.60 2005 0-7660-2369-9 Enslow Publishers, Inc. Middle-high school Recommended www.enslow.com This book builds on the authors Microscope Science Projects and Experiments: Magnifying the Hidden World; Many of its method illustrations are repeated from the earlier book. Cells, cell organelles, protists, bacteria, and fungi are discussed; as potential science fair projects. The student will need a good compound microscope and should know how to use it. There is a useful Microbe Identification Guide. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Rainis, K.G. Exploring With a Magnifying Glass 144pp, hardback, 8x10 $19.00 1991 0-531-12508-4 From Franklin Watts, New York, NY. Out of print; try a used book dealer. Middle - high school. This book begins with a good optics chapter that includes instructions for two homebuilt simple microscopes. Several nature study chapters follow, all with inquiry questions that could become science fair projects, since many of them require observation over several weeks or months. Material on photography, metals, paper, and fabric is included. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Rainis, K.G. and Russell, B.J. Guide to Microlife 287pp, 5.5x8.5, paperback $40.00 1996 0-531-11266-7 Franklin Watts, Danbury, CT Middle school - adult. Recommended The price of this book is both unfortunate and understandable. Unfortunate, because it should be in the library of every class that studies the microlife of our environment; understandable, because almost every page has one or more excellent color light micrographs. Its a comprehensive field guide to the microworld. The authors say that the 115 microorganisms described comprise 75-90% of those that may be encountered in the wild. The habitats described are diverse: the home, soils, plants and debris, and four aquatic environments, with detailed advice on collecting methods for each. Described organisms are equally diverse, ranging from monerans to millimeter-sized arthropods. Species descriptions include ecological information, advice on collection and culture, and frequent suggestions for further investigation. A companion videotape is available from Neo/Sci, P.O. Box 22729, Rochester, NY 14692-2729, 800-526-6689, www.neosci.com. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Ross, M.E. The World of the Small: Nature Explorations With a Hand Lens 63pp, hardback, 6x9 $15.95 1993 0-93966-662-6 From the Yosemite Association, Yosemite National Park, CA; 209-379-2648. Middle school. This is a well-written, nicely illustrated, rugged (its printed on card stock) introduction to nature explorations with a hand lens. Some of the suggestions are quite clever (search your car grille for insect parts to identify) but others wont be easy for a youngster to follow (search for ants marching up a stem and then look for aphids; watch the aphids and see if you can notice how the ants get honeydew). It will appeal to a young naturalist. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Sammon, R. & Sammon, S, & Burder, D.. Creepy Crawlies 24pp, 8.5x8.5, paperback $9.95 1993 1-57359-006-1 Starrhill Press, P.O. Box 21038, Washington, D.C. 20009-0538, 202-387-9805. Grades 3-6. Twelve spectacular 3D images (mostly SEM) of insects are sure to fascinate. Red-green stereo (glasses included) is used; both stereo and the bugs are explained briefly. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Shih, G. and Kessel, R. Living Images 1982 Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Silverstein, A. & Silverstein, V. The World in a Drop of Water 58pp, 6.5x9, paperback $3.95 1969, 1998 0-486-40381-5 Dover Publishing. Out of print; try a used book dealer. K - 8. Recommended This Dover reprint deserves to be back in print. The black and white micrographs may not be as dramatic as current full color illustrations, but theyre well chosen and really good. The text assumes no prior knowledge, and the style is informal and clear. It will be a big help for a child who finds pond water fascinating, and its inexpensive. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Simon, S. Out of Sight: Pictures of Hidden Worlds 32 pgs, 10x10, paperback $6.95 ($0.50 used) 2000 1-58717-149-X SeaStar Books All ages Recommended www.northsouth.com The emphasis here is dramatic photography. Fourteen of the three dozen photos are microscopy; medical imaging methods, strobe photos, and satellite and astronomical images are also included. The (adult) text is jargon-free, accurate and informative. Its definitely a book for all ages. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Siy, A. & Kunkel, D. Mosquito Bite 9x 9, 32 pp, hardback $ 15.95 2005 1-57091-591-1 Charlesbridge Publishing, (800)225-3214 Ages 6-11 www.charlesbridge.com Mosquito Bite isnt just another ugly bug book; it presents the mosquito life cycle in the context of childrens backyard play. Dennis Kunkels electron micrographs are, as usual, excellent. The design of the book will appeal to its intended audience (ages 6-11), but some of the concepts and vocabulary need support from an informed teacher or parent. Current concern about West Nile virus should make it a useful teaching aid. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Snedden, R. Yuck! A Big Book of Little Horrors. 32 pp, hardback, 10x10 $15.00. 1996 0-689-80676-0 Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Out of print; try a used book dealer. Although the cover describes this as a book for young readers, ages 5 - 10 its hard to classify. The micrographs are excellent, but theyre all artificially colored, which isnt explained (a strawberry is red, but a potato slice and a tooth are blue). Many lack magnification information, and there is no description of the microscope that provides images from 10X to 35,000X. The text is interesting, but it uses an adult vocabulary. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Stidworthy, J. Insects Through the Microscope 1993 Out of print 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Stwertka, E.& A. Microscope: How to Use and Enjoy It. 28pp, 6.5x8.5, paperback $4.95 1988 0-671-63705-3 Julian Messner, Simon & Schuster, Inc. Out of print; try a used book dealer. For grades 5-8. The title of this manual is deceptive; just ten pages are devoted to the microscope and its use. Basic observational subjects are described, but the line drawings arent very helpful. Technical vocabulary is emphasized. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Tomb, H. & Kunkel, D. MicroAliens: Dazzling Journeys with an Electron Microscope 80pp, hardback (paperback available and often discounted), 10x10, $16.00 1993 0-374-34960-6 Out of print but widely available from online used book dealers. Middle school - adult. Recommended This is a fine presentation of the SEM microworld, written for young people. It begins with an outstanding two-page nontechnical description of electron microscopes, and it uses an inquiry approach to the everyday worlds: the air, the water, the yard, the home, on you, and inside you. Its mostly low magnification biology, with interesting additions (e.g., a comparison of hooks on a seed with Velcro , with a sidebar on Velcros invention). After selling 500,000 copies, its out of print but still desirable. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World VanCleave, J. Microscopes and Magnifying Lenses 100pp, paperback, 8x8 $10.95 1993 0-471-58956-X John Wiley, NY ;from Delta as #51-022-0054 or Carolina Biological as BA96-0328. Grade 6 and up. Recommended This collection of 20 simple, interesting projects is best described by the books subtitle: Mind-boggling chemistry and biology experiments you can turn into science fair projects. The first seven exercises are an excellent introduction to simple and compound lenses, but most of the rest of the units use a simple magnifier and do not make good use of a compound microscope. Theyre all presented as preliminary experiments designed to encourage independent development as science fair projects. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Yount, L. Antoni van Leeuwenhoek: First to See Microscopic Life 128pp, 7x9 $20.95 1996 0-89490-680-1 Enslow Publishers, Inc., Box 699, Springfield, NJ 07081 Middle school. Recommended Yount has merged well-researched biography with a clear explanation of the importance of Leeuwenhoeks scientific observations, and she manages to do this without jargon and with an engaging writing style. She concludes with advice on how to repeat some of his observations. No other comparable book exists for young readers at present; it qualifies as a must read for the youngster who is developing an interest in microlife. 2B Supplemental Books The Microscopic World Aust, S. Lenses: Take a Closer Look 32pp,, 10.5x9.5, paperback $7.95 1996 0-8225-9732-2 A Reading Rainbow book from Lerner Publications. Out of print; try a used book dealer. Ages 7-10 This attractively illustrated and accurately written introduction to seeing and percieving introduces the many uses of lenses in binoculars, microscopes, telescopes, etc., as well as many vision-related topics, such as eye exams, depth perception, optical illusions and blindness, but does not include why explanations with any topic. Magnifiers and microscopes receive four pages. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Burnie, D. Light 64pp, 8.5x11, hardback $15.95 1992 1-879431-79-3 Dorling Kindersley, 232 Madison Ave., NY,NY 10016. Grade 8-adult. This is part of the lavishly illustrated Eyewitness Science series. Although no more than ten pages are directly relevant to lenses and magnification, it will stimulate an inquiring student. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Cobb, V. and , J. Light Action! 1993 Out of print 2C Supplemental Books Optics DaMert Co. Discover Magnification. 8 pp, 4x5.5, looseleaf, ~ $5.00 1996 Contact the manufacturer, DaMert, 1609 Fourth St., Berkeley, CA 94710, 510-524-7400, for bulk orders and information on retail sources. Ages 8 & up. DaMert has packaged a magnifying bug box, a plastic folding triplet hand lens, and a cased Fresnel lens (with inch and centimeter scales} with a brief but excellent description of refraction and lenses. Although it isnt a book, youll find it in some bookstores and its a good introductory kit. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Doherty, P. and Rathjen, D. The Magic Wand and other Bright Experiments on Light and Color 125pp, 7.5x9 $10.95 1995 0-471-11515-0 John Wiley & Sons, NY Out of print; much of it is available on the Exploratorium website. All grade levels. Recommended http://www.exploratorium.edu/snacks/snacksbysubject.html The Exploratorium in San Francisco is famous for its interactive science exhibits. They have published a series of science snackbooks that give adults detailed instructions on how to duplicate those exhibits for classrooms or science museums. This one collects 25 easy-to-construct optics demonstrations that investigate reflection, refraction, polarization, and magnification. Many could be good science fair projects. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Edmund Scientific Popular Optics 192 pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $17.50 1974, reprinted 1993 Order #9445 from Edmund Scientific, 101 E. Gloucester Pike, Barrington, NJ 08007-1380; 609-547-8880. Adult. All about magnifiers is a 16 page chapter in this collection of projects for amateurs. A high school student or adult will find a wealth of information here for home workshop construction of optical equipment. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Hidalgo, M Color 32pp., 8x8, hardbound $16.95 2003 1-58341-228-X Creative Education, 123 S Broad St., Mankato, MN 56001 Elementary school Light and Color are part of the Lets Investigate Science series. They share more than their format; much text (on prisms, raindrops, the eye) is almost identical in the two. The text is more descriptive than explanatory, and that distinction becomes important in the discussion of prisms. We are told that they have perfect edges and sharp corners (which have no no effect on wavelength separation), but we are not told that the density of glass slows the various color wavelengths selectively, which creates the separated spectrum. The same fault mars the description of water drops and rainbows. The illustrations in both books are excellent color photographs, but one in Color ( pg. 11) is an artificially colorized scanning electron micrograph of rods and cones in the retina. The colorizing isnt explained, which is quite confusing since the text describes the cones differing sensitivity to the primary colors - its easy to think that their color in the image matches their sensitivity. One or two diagrams would have helped increase understanding, particularly for children whose learning style is more visual than verbal. For example, three pages in Color discuss the color wheel and its primary, secondary, ant tertiary colors, but the wheel isnt illustrated. Several pages discuss the psychology and physiology of color vision; a better title for this one would be Seeing Color.Neither book poses any inquiry science questions. Both use much technical vocabulary (electromagnetic, equlibrium, hemisphere, photosynthesis, pituitary, etc.). They can be useful as challenging readers for upper elementary grades, but not as science texts. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Hidalgo, M Light 32pp., 8x8, hardbound $16.95 2003 1-58341-230-1 Creative Education, 123 S Broad St., Mankato, MN 56001 Elementary school Light and Color are part of the Lets Investigate Science series. They share more than their format; much text (on prisms, raindrops, the eye) is almost identical in the two. The text is more descriptive than explanatory, and that distinction becomes important in the discussion of prisms. We are told that they have perfect edges and sharp corners (which have no no effect on wavelength separation), but we are not told that the density of glass slows the various color wavelengths selectively, which creates the separated spectrum. The same fault mars the description of water drops and rainbows. About half of the text in Light is about astronomy, geography, and energy; Light and Energy might have been a better title choice.Neither book poses any inquiry science questions. Both use much technical vocabulary (electromagnetic, equlibrium, hemisphere, photosynthesis, pituitary, etc.). They can be useful as challenging readers for upper elementary grades, but not as science texts. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Kipnis, N. Rediscovering Optics 259 pp, paperback, 8.5x11 $28.00 1992 0-9636784-0-X From BENA Press, 3200 Virginia Ave. S.,#304, Minneapolis, MN 55426, or order #OP287X from the National Science Teachers Association, 800-722-NSTA. Grades 8-12. This high school teachers manual uses diialogue and the historical development of optical concepts to present a series of experiments for lab and home. There are 30 pages on lenses, and half that number on telescopes and microscopes. Some knowledge of physics and physical science vocabulary is assumed. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Levine, S. and Johnstone, L. The Optics Book 80pp, paperback, 8x10 $10.95 1998 0-8069-9947-0 Stirling Publishing Co., 387 Park Ave. South, NY, NY Middle and high school. Recommended This slim volume equals the same authors The Microscope Book in quality. Three dozen easy-to-construct experiments are grouped into categories: light rays and reflection, the speed of light and refraction, light and color, polarization, eyes and vision, and optical instruments. Its well written and illustrated (with a glossary and good index). It will fascinate the interested youngster , or provide a teacher with excellent demonstrations of optical topics that are tricky to explain; fiber optics, for example, is modeled with a flashlight-illuminated stream of water. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Murphy,P & the Exploratorium Bending Light 8x10 hardbound, 48pp 1993 0-316258-51-2 Out of print; used copies available. Age 9-12 2C Supplemental Books Optics Robertson, W. C. Stop Faking It!: Light 106 pp, 7x10, paperback; study materials (filters, etc.) included. $15.00 2003 0-87355-215-61 National Science Teachers Association Press, 800-277-5300 Teachers www.nsta.org Stop Faking It! is a new series from the NSTA, subtitled Finally understand science so you can teach it. The text in the Light volume is clear and jargon-free; it will help a science-challenged teacher answer questions with confidence and accuracy. Just one chapter deals with lenses. Reviewed, high quality web links are provided for each chapter by a password-protected online service (SciLinks), which should insure that those links are kept current. No references to books are provided. There is no index, which is a serious omission for a book intended as a teachers reference. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Robson, P. Light, Color, and Lenses 1993, 1995 Out of print 2C Supplemental Books Optics Spears, P. Microscopes and Magnifiers 8pp, 8.5x11, looseleaf $3.50 1997 Order from Big Picture Science, P.O. Box 717, Conifer, CO 80433. For teachers. Big Picture Science is a newsletter for Montessori teachers of 6-15 year-olds. Its second issue is devoted to helpful advice on microscope selection for different age groups, plus suggestions on supply sources, microscope care and specimen preparation. The advice agrees in general with that given in Microscopic Explorations (see 1A, above), but some of the specific recommendations are different. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Tomecek, S. Bouncing and Bending Light 1995 Out of print 2C Supplemental Books Optics Wood, R. Light FUNdamentals 192pp, 7.5x9, paperback $14.95 1997 0-07-071809-1 , 0-791048-43-8 Learning Triangle Press of McGraw-Hill. Reprinted in 1999 by Chelsea House. Grades 4-7 The physics of light is investigated in 30 clearly-presented experiments; most require only items found around the home or classroom. Lenses and magnification receive less than 20 pages. Its an assortment that is probably better suited to home use, rather than the classroom. Interesting guess what factoids end each experiment, but some of them are confusing; e.g., Our eyes are the busiest muscles in our body. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Wood, R. Physics for Kids: 49 Easy Experiments with Optics 1990 Out of print 2C Supplemental Books Optics Zubrowski, B. Mirrors: Finding Out About the Properties of Light 96pp, 7x9, paperback $6.95 1992 0-688-10591-2 Beech Books, Morrow & Co Out of print; try a used book dealer. Grades K-6. This Boston Childrens Museum Activity Book is filled with wonderful activities that contribute to an overall understanding of the properties of light. Its discovery method projects are suitable for class or independent use. Flat, transparent, and curved mirrors are given equal coverage; the section on curved mirrors could lead to the optics of lenses. 2C Supplemental Books Optics Blevins, W. You Can Use a Magnifying Glass 32 pp, paperback, 6x9 $4.95 2004 Childrens Press, Scholastic, Inc., or the internet Age 4-8 Recommended This pamphlet is part of the Rookie Read-About Science series; its a unique addition to the limited selection of primary grade books on magnification. There are nice photos on every page, and familiar things are emphasized. The text is suitable for a beginning reader; theres an illustrated glossary and even an index. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Bruna, D. Miffys Magnifying Glass All boards, 16 pp, 6xc6 $5.99 2003 1 59 226031-4 Bi8g Tent Entertainment, New York, NY Preschool Miffy is a character who is popular with the preschool set, but this board book wont improve her reputation. There is no magnifying glass; just four round holes in pages. A snail, chicken tracks, and a cow are shown; there is no attempt to simulate magnification. The final drawing, of dog poop, is so inappropriate that all of the parent-reviewers on a major Internet website are negative; half of the reviewers returned the book to the seller. MICRO agrees. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Bryan, S.J., Twinney, D., & Barber, J. Up Close! Exploring Nature With a Magnifying Glass 64 pp, hardback, 7x10 $12.00 2001 1-57584-428-1 A Readers Digest Explorer Guide. Readers Digest Childrens Publishing, Inc. Ages 7 and up. Recommended The magnifying glass that is included isnt really essential to deliver the message of this book; its about field observation of the living world. It delivers its message very well, with excellent drawings of plants and animals from marine, fresh water, and backyard environments. Just one of the several suggested experiments goes beyond biology; its simple crystal growing. Its an excellent introduction that will encourage an inquiring child to go on with further explorations at higher magnifications. A good glossary and index are included. Its actually 47 pages, followed by a blank journal, to encourage note-taking. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Bullock, L. Looking Through a Microscope 32 pp, paperback, 6x9 $4.95 2003 0-516-127912-2 Childrens Press, Scholastic, Inc., or the internet Age 4-8 Recommended This pamphlet is part of the Rookie Read-About Science series; its a welcome addition to the limited selection of primary grade books on microscopy. There are nice photos on every page, and familiar things like dust bunnies and insects are emphasized. The text is suitable for a beginning reader; theres an illustrated glossary and even an index. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Dalton, C., Sikora, T., & Sikora, E. Light 30pp, hardback, 8x9 $17.95. 2001 1-58952-014-9 Rourke Publishing, Vero Beach, FL Primary school This book tries to do too much, and falls short in the attempt. At first glance, it appears to be a beginning reader, with large type and barely a hundred lines of text in its 30 pages. But by page 10 it presents light as photons or electromagnetic waves - without making any attempt to relate the two concepts. There are repeated attempts to simplify physical principles, and the result is a series of confusing distortions. For example, light is defined as A natural or artificial bright form of energy that enables us to see. And: One kind of light gives off heat and one doesnt. The two experiments presented will both be hard to interpret without further information; the diagram of a prism used to explain the spectrum in the discussion of one experiment actually has light bending 90 degrees within the prism. Although several of the good elementary school books on light are currently out of print, Bernie Zubrowskis Mirrors: Finding Out About the Properties of Light, a Boston Childrens Museum Activity Book, would be a better choice. Primary school format, middle school vocabulary. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Early, B. Tiny Life in a Puddle 32 pgs, 6x7, hardbound $14.00 2005 0-516-25272-0 Scholastic, Childrens Press 1 - 3 Recommended This is part of the Rookie Read-About Science series; it has 14 photos of common protists and simple, brief text. Although its a useful addition to the small number of primary school books, its complete lack of size information is unfortunate. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Kumin, M. The Microscope 1963, 1984 Out of print. http://www.MSA.microscopy.com/ProjectMICRO/QuotesMicroscopes.html The full text of Maxine Kumins charming poem is available on the Project MICRO website (as quote #20). 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Maynard, C. Micromonsters: Life Under the Microscope 32 pp, paperback, 6x9 $3.95 1999 0-7894-4756-8 A Dorling Kindersley Eyewitness book. Ages 4-8. There arent many microscopy-related books for the primary grades available; this one has text rated for proficient readers and it uses DKs beautiful photos and drawings. The micromonsters are all organisms that attack humans: head lice, fleas, bed bugs, dust, eyelash and itch mites, amoebae, malarial parasites, tapeworms, and bacteria, complete with pictures of bites and skin lesions. Some young readers may find it wonderfully gross, but for others the graphic detail may be too scary. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Ontario Science Center Have Fun With Magnifying. 1987 Out of print 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Rotner, S. & Olivo, R. Close, Closer, Closest 32pp, 10x8.5, hardback $16.00 1997 0-689-80762-7 Atheneum Books for Young Readers, Simon & Schuster, 1230 Avenue of the Americas, NY, NY 10020 Preschool and primary. Recommended Ones first impression is that this is a nonbook. Wrong! Common objects (leaf, yarn, feather, Cheerios, comic book, dime, etc.) are photographed in glorious color, each at three magnifications including 20-30X microscopy. The text is minimal and the effect is outstanding. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Royston, A. Color , & Light and Dark 32 pp, paperback, 7x9 $6.50 2002 1-58810-238-6 & 1-58810-242-4 Heinemann Library, Chicago, IL Primary grades. www.heinmannlibrary.com These two books should be considered easy readers with a science topic, rather than science books. Basic concepts are presented well in Color (e.g., primary colors and color mixing) but an inquiring child will find confusing inconsistencies. For example, Color says the red colors this girl is wearing all look different but as printed, theyre identical. And red, blue, and yellow mixed together make brown while black is made when all pigments are mixed together. Light and Dark is free from such inconsistencies, but that inquiring child will ask why? when terms like transparent and opaque are introduced, and the text provides no explanation to help the teacher. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Selsam, M.E. Gregs Microscope 64pp,paperback, 5.5x8.5 $3.95 1963, 1990 0-06-444144-X HarperCollins Publishers, or Carolina Biological #972775. This is a nice easy reader about a child with a home microscope. Observation of common objects is presented with a good discovery approach, but Gregs family is depicted in a (very 1960s) sexist manner that diminishes its usefulness. Grades 1-3. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Wilkin, F. Microscopes and Telescopes pgs, 7x9, hardbound $0.50 (userd) 1983 0-516-01696-2 Childrens Press Primary grades Recommended Good primary-grade books are scarce; this out-of-print one is a gem. Its an easy reader that explains lenses! 30 pages are about lenses and microscopy. 2D Supplemental Books For the Primary Grades Childrens Television Workshop Crystals: Theyre Habit Forming 15 minutes $15.00 plus shipping. 1991 Order #2 in the 3-2-1 Classroom Contact series from GPN P.O.Box 80669, Lincoln, NE 68501-0669; 800-228-4630. A teachers guide to the entire 30 tape series is available for $12.00. Grades 4-6 Recommended Although it isnt strictly microscopy, crystal growing is an attention-getting project, and this tape explains crystal structure well. The formation of a crystal lattice is illustrated with a clever animation sequence (of a young gymnast) and with molecular models. Snow crystal growth is discussed and demonstrated with computer modeling. The 3-page teachers guide gives directions for crystal growing. 3 VideoTapes Nuridsany, C and Perennou, M MicroCosmos 1997 A Miramax Films Release distributed by Buena Vista Home Video, Dept. CS, Burbank, CA 91521. 75 minutes; rentable at large video stores (Blockbuster, etc.). In spite of the title, this feature film contains no microscopy. Its short macrophotography sequences, mostly of insects. 3 VideoTapes PBS Video Under the Microscope 1992 Dont be deceived by the title of this series. There are 13 excellent episodes, but none of them use microscopy! Microscope is used as a generic term for all inquiry science; flattering, but inaccurate. If youd like a PBS Video catalog anyway, call 800-424-7963. 3 VideoTapes Childrens Television Workshop Refraction: Facts of Light 15 minutes $15.00 plus shipping. 1991 Order as #25 in the 3-2-1 Classroom Contact series from GPN, Grades 4-6 Recommended An engaging middle school - age narrator plus effective use of both animation and a laser beam make this an excellent introduction to refraction and convex lenses. The example used is a lighthouse rather than a microscope, but lenses are lenses. The 4-page teachers guide provides simple pre- and post-viewing classroom experiments. 3 VideoTapes Optics Delta Education Lenses and Mirrors. 18 minutes $19.95 1994 Order item # 53-220-2639 from Delta Education, Inc., P.O.Box 3000, Nashua, NH 03061-9913; 800-282-9560. Grades 5-6. This video is divided into three parts: mirrors and reflection, lenses and refraction, and lenses and mirrors in action. The optical discussion is brief but reasonably clear, and the examples used are ones that will interest middle school students, such as car rearview mirrors, teleprompters, and near- and far- sighted eyes. Each tape section ends with questions that are sure to provoke discussion - but teachers may need to research the answers! 3 VideoTapes Optics Louisiana Public Broadcasting Optics: Beginning to See the Light 15 minutes $23.95 plus shipping. 1994 Order #602-8 in the Dr. Dads PH3 series from GPN, P.O.Box 80669, Lincoln, NE 68501-0669; 800-228-4630. Grades 3-6. Recommended Dr. Dad uses simple experiments with a flashlight and glasses of water to demonstrate refraction and the focal point of a lens to a group of students. One of the students then goes for an eye examination; its a good sequence that relates lenses to vision. Prisms and a fresnel lens are introduced, without much explanation. The four page teachers guide has both experiments and background information. 3 VideoTapes Optics Matulavich, P. Lenses and Magnification 20 minutes, $100.00 1989 Produced by Barr Films and distributed as #A556 by Clearvue/eav, 6465 North Avondale, Chicago, IL 60631-1909; 312-775-9433 or 800-253-2788. Middle school - adult. Most of this tape is a really good introduction to optics. It begins with a simple explanation of refraction, including a clever use of a motorized toy as a demonstration. Laser beams are sent through cutaway convex and concave lenses to explain the concepts of magnification, reduction, focal point, and focal length. These concepts are then applied to compound microscopes and telescopes. Unfortunately, the tape doesnt stop there; there are short segments on scanning electron microscopy and radio telescopes that have inadequate, inaccurate narration. Neither instrument uses lenses, so both sequences will confuse an introduction to optics and should be deleted in the classroom. 3 VideoTapes Optics Microscopy Society of America. #006 Sectioned Biological Material 16 minutes, $12.00. A step-by-step description of the preparation of thin sections of biological material for TEM.#007 The Penetrating Eye: Introduction to SEM Concepts. 22 minutes, $12.00. A simple description of the basic principles of (biological) SEM.#008 Introduction to Scanning Electron Microscopy 57 minutes, $15.00. An interesting lecture on SEM as an observational tool; the emphasis is on the psychology of vision.#016 Interpreting Transmission Electron Micrographs Three-Dimensionally 6 minutes, $12.00. A cartoon explanation of the 3-D meaning of 2-D lines, circles, and dots as seen in transmission electron micrographs. 1968-1970 Contact Greg Erdos, MSA Education Committee, Biotechnology, P.O. Box 118525, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611; a check for the amount indicated covers purchase and U.S. postage. Adult http://www.MSA.microscopy.com MSA maintains a videotape collection intended for professional microscopists, but the four listed here can be used to introduce electron microscopy; the narration is adult. A complete list is available from Dr. Erdos, or online at the MSA website. 3 VideoTapes Optics Nilssen, L. The Photographers Secrets 1 hour $19.95 1996 WGBH Boston Video, P.O.Box 2284, South Burlington, VT, 05407, 800-255-9424. All ages. Lennart Nilssen is famous for his beautiful images of human development. This is part three of the Nova series Odyssey of Life (or part 4 of the series The Wonder of Life) It explains his use of SEM and other imaging tools that blur the line between microscopy and macrophotography; it will be particularly interesting for budding microscopists. 3 VideoTapes Optics Lucas Foundation Learn & Live 60 minutes $20.00 (plus $1.65 tax for CA residents) with a 284 page resource book 1999 From the Foundation at PO Box 672, Santa Rosa, CA 95402 or 888-4RKIDS1. Adult. http://glef.org Innovative school programs that use educational technology are showcased in this well-made documentary. The first half hour features the interactive SEM collaboration between Steve Barlow of San Diego State University and a local elementary school class. It shows current methods of inquiry science in action; it can help other microscopist-teacher pairs develop an educationally effective collaboration. The companion book has no detail about the SEM outreach; Steve can be contacted by Email at sbarlow@sunstroke.sdsu.edu. Available for viewing on the Lucas website. 3 VideoTapes Teaching Microscopy Colgren, J. How to Use a Microscope 20 minutes, $95.00 with a 3 page teachers guide and 11 copyable student worksheets. 1989 #53 from United Learning, Inc., 6633 W. Howard St., Niles, IL 60714-3389; 800-424-0362. Available as # SB21476M from Nasco, 800-558-9595, and as VC 143V from Connecticut Valley Biological , 800-628-7748. Middle school. A basic monocular compound microscope with mirror and no condenser is the example used, which may help the teacher with that kind of equipment. Instructions are simple, clear and brief. About half of the tape is other microscopies, primarily a sequence of SEM images of common objects. The student sheets cover scope parts, water drop magnifiers, and a few exercises (e.g., pond water, fabrics, snowflakes). 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Films for the Humanities & Sciences An Introduction to the Microscope 20 minutes Price reduced (1/00) to $19.95 by Carolina Biological, 800-334-5551; order #BA49-1008. 1995 High school - adult. The parts, use, and care of a simple monocular compound microscope are presented clearly. Oil immersion is mentioned, although it isnt advisable with the microscope used as an example. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Films for the Humanities & Sciences Electron Microscopy. 15 minutes $59.95 1986 order from Films for the Humanities & Sciences , P.O.Box 2053, Princeton, NJ 08543-2053 High school-adult. Basic introductory tapes on transmission electron microscopy are scarce; this one fills a need. Although the tape is a dozen years old (and some of the content looks older), basic methods havent changed much. The emphasis is on preparation of plant leaf tissue; viewers are challenged to interpret four images of leaf sections (also included on a copyable page). Good preparation for a high school field trip to a biological TEM lab, but micrograph interpretation is more suitable for an introductory college botany class. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Hitachi Ltd. Challenging the Nanoworld 26 minutes $50.00 1990 Nissei Sangyo America, Ltd., 755 Ravendale Drive, Mountain View, CA 94043; 415-961-0461, attn. Delia Moyles.. 8-adult. An award-winning (in Japan) tape that introduces the world of electron microscopy. Although the emphasis is on Hitachi microscopes, there is excellent discussion of current biological and physical science ultrastructural research. It would be good preparation for a class field trip to an EM laboratory. Grades 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Innovation Frontiers of Microscopy 26 minutes $149.00 From Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Inc., P.O.Box 2053, Princeton, NJ 08543-2053 or order #49-1006-V from Carolina Biological. High school-adult Originally produced as three short segments as part of WNETs Innovation series, this tape explores the history and future of microscopy, with emphasis on currrent state of the art: video light microscopy, transmission and scanning electron electron microscopy, and the scanning tunneling microscope which allows us to see individual atoms. Viewers need some science background . 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Matulavich, P. The Microscope and Its Incredible World 21 minutes $100.00 1987 From Barr Films; #A432 from Clearvue/eav, 6465 North Avondale, Chicago, IL 60631-1909; 312-775-9433 or 800-253-2788. Middle school - adult. A good explanation of the contribution of objective and eyepiece to microscope magnification is followed by equally good advice on using a student microscope. The condenser and substage iris diaphragm are described in terms of contrast and brightness; this is useful advice for a beginner rather than optimum optics. The visual effect of changing focus is demonstrated well, and brightfield and darkfield are mentioned but not explained. A variety of nicely photographed specimens follow, without much advice on sample preparation. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Media Design Associates Preparing and Using Microscope Slides 19 minutes $140.00 1986 From MDAInc., Box 3189, Boulder CO 80307-3189 or order #49-1007-V from Carolina Biological. High school-adult. Preparation of permanent mounts of stained sections of biological tissue is demonstrated, without much discussion of the reasons for the sequence of steps. Preparation of fresh wet mounts is shown with enough detail that students could make their own. About half of the tape is still frame images of 20 specimens. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Media Design Associates Using a Compound Microscope 14 minutes $140.00 1986 MDA Inc., Box 3189, Boulder CO 80307-3189, or order from Carolina Biological as #49-1005-V. High school-adult. Simple instructions on the use of a compound microscope are given; a short vocabulary and quiz are provided in an accompanying booklet. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Microscope World Experiments With the Mini-Microscope 50 minutes $79.00 with 52pp teachers guide. 1991 Microscope World,Inc., P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-0528 or 800-942-0528. Middle school. Recommended www.microscopeworld.com A wide variety of common objects (money, fingerprints, fabric, etc.) are observed with a 30x hand-held scope, but this tape is much more than a collection of interesting images. Each subject gets an in-depth treatment that is designed to provoke further inquiry (e.g., different sands are followed by discussion of the minerals, shells, or coral in them). Calibration and measurement are introduced well and used throughout the tape. The manual is so good that its listed as a curriculum guide in section 1A. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Microscope World How To Use the Microscope 12 minutes $19.95. 1994 Order from Microscope World, Inc., P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-0528 or 800-942-0528 Middle and high school. www.microscopeworld.com This tape is identical to part one of Experiments With the Microscope.. Its useful as an introduction to the compound microscope and slidemaking. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Microscope World See What Microscopes Are All About 28 minutes Free to teachers and school administrators. 1997 Request item #605 from Microscope World, P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92032; 800-942-0528 or 760-942-0528. Adult. www.microscopeworld.com Adult.Although this tape is from a commercial source and is quite product-biased, the information presented will make it easier for a teacher to make a wise microscope purchase decision. Similar advice is available in the curriculum guide Microscopic Explorations (see section IA, above). 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Olympus Corp. The Basic Microscope, Use and Care. 1985 See entry under Abramowitz in section 2A. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Phillips, R.E. This is the Microscope 16 minutes $49.95 1986 Order # 49-8135-V from Carolina Biological. 800-334-5551 High school-adult. The proper use of a compound microscope is shown in a series of still frames with narration; the text is provided in an accompanying booklet. The instructions are simple and clear, but the discussion of the use of oil immersion objectives is out of place here, since theres no comment on adjusting illumination for the use of oil. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Sitko, J. Introduction to the Microscope 2 x 20 minutes $140.00 1991 Clearvue/eav, 312-775-9433 or 800-253-2788. Middle school - adult This two-tape series is #CL317-CV from Clearvue/eav. It includes #CL318-CV, How to Use the Compound Microscope and #CL319-CV, The Hidden World of Microscopy. The first tape begins with a bit of history (van Leeuwenhoek and Hook) and then jumps to a detailed discussion of the parts, care, and use of a student microscope. Benzene and ether are recommended for cleaning, but neither are good for the health of either students or lens cement. Empty magnification, choice of appropriate magnification, depth of focus, and the use of condenser and iris to balance resolution and contrast are all explained without jargon. The second tape presents excellent photomicrography of living microorganisms; human cheek cells are a somewhat out-of-place final sequence. There is advice on preparation of hay infusions and wet mounts. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation VETI, Inc. Introduction to the Microscope and Laboratory Techniques 25 minutes $50.85 1979, revised 1989 Produced by VETI, Inc., 2821 Bergdolt Rd., Evansville, IN 47711; available from Nasco as #SB26488M; 800-558-9595. High school. The parts and proper use of a basic school-quality monocular compound microscope are presented in a methodical manner. The presentation is clear and jargon-free, but the three objectives used are low (10x10=100x), high (10x40=400x) and oil (10x100=1000). Most school scopes will offer 40, 100, and 400x, so students will be confused, and oil immersion is useless on a condenser-less microscope. A sequence about air bubbles and lens dirt is helpful, but one about focal depth is not. Theres a cute poem about Paramecium (WITH jargon) that protozoologists will enjoy. 3 VideoTapes The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Acorn, J. Under the Microscope 24 minutes $99.00 plus shipping. 1994 Produced by CFRN Television and Great North Productions, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Order from Filmwest Associates, 300 W. 2nd St., Carson City NV 89703; info@filmwest.com , 702-883-8090, FAX 800-570-5505. Middle school Recommended This delightful tape is #6 in the 13-part series Acorn, the Nature Nut. John Acorn calls it lighthearted; he uses humor, role-playing (van Leeuwenhoek and a science nerd) and song to attract the attention of his young audience. Its full of accurate, useful advice on how to select an inexpensive compound microscope and use it to study pond life. Encourage your local PBS station to show it soon; its a fine introduction to the microworld. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World AIMS Educational Foundation Magnificent Microworld Adventures 55 minutes $24.95 (with the companion book, $39.80) 1997 1-881431-70-3 Order from the AIMS Foundation, P.O.Box 8120, Fresno, CA 93747-8120, 888-733-2467. The tape is item #4080; the book and video package is #4081. Grades 4-9 The discussion here is directed to teachers who plan to use the companion manual. Limited discussion of inexpensive microscopes is followed by some clever specimen mounting ideas. 20 minutes of the tape is a reference section with 40 images of various objects at 20 power. Some video image quality is poor, and sequences dont match the book topics well. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World BioMedia Associates Exploring with a Hand Held Microscope 18 minutes $30.00 1992 From DiscoveryScope Inc. 800 398 5404, www.discoveryscope.com http:// www.discoveryscope.com This is a nice introduction to the collection and study of pond organisms; its intended for Discovery Scope users. The false sounds that accompany the critter action may be confused with reality by a beginner. The video ends with a well-photographed sequence of images of common pond life which are, regrettably, identified only on the tape box. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World BioMedia Associates Eye of the Cyclops 15 minute tapes. A DVD of all 8 episodes is now available. $215.65 for eight or separately for $29.95 each. DVD of all segments, $145. 1999 BioMedia, 888-248-6665, www.biovideo.com or from Connecticut Valley Biological Supply, 800-628-7748 (item # VC 9050V) or Carolina Biological,800-334-5551 as BA-49-1138A. Available in both VHS and PAL. Middle school Recommended http://www.biovideo.com This series is the best currently available video introduction to microlife for middle school students. It is produced by B. J. Russell and E. R. Russell; Bruce is the coauthor/ photographer of the equally excellent Guide to Microlife and Eric has animated the Cyclops, a one millimeter submersible (reminiscent of Jules Verne) and its crew; the animation merges well with the photography. The usual This-is-a---- descriptive approach has been replaced with clever aquanaut adventures that stress observation, inquiry, and experimentation. There is discussion of a variety of topics, such as the relationship between structure and function, feeding, ecology, reproduction, and name origins. The point is clearly made that we dont know everything about microlife; theres still much to learn. The photography is superb. The individual segments are short enough to use in a class hour that includes microscope observation and discussion. Good study guides are available for each segment; they transform each tape into a rich curriculum unit. Plankton Play ISBN 1-56791-234-6 Copepod (Cyclops), Daphnia, Volvox. Decomposers Everywhere! ISBN 1-56791-235-4 Bacteria on a pond bottom. Food Chains Begin with Photosynthesis The crew rescues an alga that provides them with oxygen. Protozoans and Algae Volvox, Euplotes, Euglena, Amoeba, Stentor, Paramecium, Chlorella in a pond.. Predators of the Shallows ISBN 1-56791-237-0 Adventures with Planaria and Hydra. White Water Adventure Algae and insects in a stream. Backyard Biodiversity Lawn ecosystems, with seeds, weeds, and earthworms. Discovering a Forest Microcosm Mites, bacteria, insects, fungi, and termites with their protozoa, all on the forest floor. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World BioMedia Associates Imaging a Hidden World 15 minutes $45.00 1992 Order from BioMedia or Discovery Scope, Inc., 800 398 5404 Middle school-adult. http://www.discoveryscope.com , http:www.ebiomedia.com Videomicroscopy with a home camcorder is demonstrated. Accessories from Wards and Discovery Scope are emphasized, but the information could be adapted to other equipment. Construction and use of a simple darkfield stop and crossed polarizers are demonstrated. A real plus is an excellent, jargon-free introduction to the optics and operation of a compound microscope. Magnification versus resolution and the limitations imposed by the wavelengths of visible light are clearly presented. This tape would be very helpful for a teacher who has a compound microscope available, but doesnt know how to use it. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Childrens Television Workshop Crystals: Theyre Habit Forming 15 minutes, $15.00 plus shipping. 1991 Order #2 in the 3-2-1 Classroom Contact series from GPN P.O.Box 80669, Lincoln, NE 68501-0669; 800-228-4630. A teachers guide to the entire 30 tape series is available for $12.00. Grades 4-6 Recommended Although it isnt strictly microscopy, crystal growing is an attention-getting project, and this tape explains crystal structure well. The formation of a crystal lattice is illustrated with a clever animation sequence (of a young gymnast) and with molecular models. Snow crystal growth is discussed and demonstrated with computer modeling. The 3-page teachers guide gives directions for crystal growing. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Eames, C. & Eames, R. Powers of Ten 21 minutes $40 - $45 1978 Pyramid Film & Video, 2801 Colorado Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90404, 800-421-2304; PBS Home Video #A1546, 800-645-4PBS; and Arbor Scientific, P.O.Box 2750, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-2750, 800-367-6695. Middle school - adult. Recommended This classic places the microworld in the size continuum; it goes from galaxies to atomic nuclei by 10x steps. The original format was 16mm movie, followed by a book with the same images (see Morrison in 2B) and a flipbook (see Eames in 2B). 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Great Plains National Germs Make Me Sick. 30 minutes $43.95 + shipping 1988 #126-34 in the Reading Rainbow series from GPN, P.O.Box 80669, Lincoln, NE 68501-0669; 800-228-4630 Grades 3-6. Microscopy is emphasized in this tape, but its primarily an introduction to microbiology. A brief introductory sequence shows pond water collection and observation, followed by microscopy of common bacteria. Food molds are mentioned, without images of the fungi. Much of the tape is a reading of the childrens book that shares the title. There is a 2-page teachers guide. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Hatch, W.A. [17 tapes] $20 1993-1998 Order directly from Warren A. Hatch, P.O.Box 9224, Portland, OR 97207, Email whatch@hevanet.com. These tapes are also available in PAL format. Elementary-middle school Recommended Video Microscope I, revised. 120 minutes. ISBN 1-884195-01-6 Similar to tape II, with different examples. Theres a collection of sand grains from around the world, and a burger and fries from MacDonalds. Video Microscope III ISBN 1-884195-03-2 121 minutes. Same format as I and II. Video Microscope IV ISBN 1-884195-23-7 41 minutes. More variety, including a garter snake, protozoa, and insects.Video Microscope Short Highlights ISBN 1-884195-21-0 32 minutes. This edited collection might be subtitled Warren Hatchs greatest hits; it can be a fine introduction to classroom microscopy. Whats That through the Microscope? #1, ISBN 1-884195-11-3, 50 minutes; #2, ISBN 1-884195-13-X, 60 minutes; #3, ISBN 1-884195-24-5, 53 minutes. Similar to the Video Microscope series, but with a question format. Whats That #2 shows some of the Los Angeles puddles, ponds, and vacant lots that are Hatchs collecting sites, which should encourage young urban scientists-to-be to explore their environment. Crystals through a Microscope ISBN 1884195-10-5 81 minutes. 38 different chemical crystals are shown growing in real time; advice on how to grow crystals is given. RECOMMENDEDCrystal Growing: Views Thru a Microscope 30 minutes. Very effective.Insects and Spiders Up Close ISBN 1-884195-22-9 37 minutes. This video includes 16 common arthropods and is intended for kindergarten and first grade.Los Angeles River through a Microscope ISBN 1-884195-14-8 84 minutes. The emphasis is on insects on or near the river. Pond and Puddle Life through a Microscope ISBN 1-884195-05-9 121 minutes. A wide variety of algae, protozoa, and invertebrates are photographed well; its a good companion for Acorns tape (see above). Protozoa Through a Microscope ISBN 1-884195-19-9 90 minutes 28 free living species plus other pond microorganisms and their collection sites. A useful supplement to Anderson and Dragers book (see section IIB, above).Protozoa in Action 29 minutes, A newer version. Sand through a Microscope 2nd edition Order directly from Warren A. Hatch, P.O.Box 9224, Portland, OR 97207, Email whatch@hevanet.com. These tapes are also available in PAL format. ISBN 1-884195-17-2 52 minutes. Many minerals from many locations. Fascinating. RECOMMENDEDSpiders and Mites through a Microscope 1993 ISBN 1-884195-04-0 89 minutes. Theyre treated with respect rather than as micro-monsters.Spiders and Mites Alive Thru a Microscope 1998 33 minutes. A newer version.Seeds through a Microscope 2nd edition,1996 ISBN 1-884195-18-0 54 minutes. 47 varities, at 10-20X magnification.Worm Bin Creatures Alive Through a Microscope 1998 32 minutes Worm bins are a popular classroom project. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Hatch, W.A. Video for Microscopic Explorations 33 minutes $20.00 1998 Order directly from Warren A. Hatch, P.O.Box 9224, Portland, OR 97207, Email whatch@hevanet.com. Middle school Recommended This Hatch tape was produced at the request of MSA and is correlated with the contents of the Project MICRO manual Microscopic Explorations (see curriculum guides, section IIA above). RECOMMENDED as a companion to the manual. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Hatch, W.A. Video Microscope II. 120 minutes $20.00. 1992 1-884195-02-4 Order directly from Warren A. Hatch, P.O.Box 9224, Portland, OR 97207, Email whatch@hevanet.com. These tapes are also available in PAL format. All Recommended The length and price of this tape arent misprints; Hatch is a schoolteacher who makes tapes as a labor of love. He calls it amateurish, but its better described as informal, stimulating and nonthreatening. Common objects are shown at 10-100X, and sequences are time-listed for easy reference. This tape shows 11 spiders and insects, fabrics, zippers, and velcro, 38 minutes of pond microorganisms, a dozen foods (including pizza and potato chips), homegrown microcrystals, color printing methods, and a few seeds. Both the video and the narration are excellent. Its wonderful; for all ages. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Japan Broadcasting Company The Ultra-Microscopic World. A series of 3 tapes, 50 minutes each. Purchase for $149 each (rental $75 each); the series is $395 as #BHA6142. 1993, 1996 The Atom Revealed, #BHA6143, Unlocking the Secrets of Life, #BHA6144, and Molecular Machines Go To Work, #BHA6145 are distributed by Films for the Humanities & Sciences , P.O.Box 2053, Princeton, NJ 08543-2053 High school - adult. Recommended The Japanese network NHK produced this miniseries in 93; FFH issued an English translation in 96. Its well done, with excellent photography and extensive animation. The English dubbing works effectively, since the narrator is offscreen most of the time. Emphasis is on frontiers of research in the microscopic world, and advanced topics, such as the scanning tunneling microscope and its use for both imaging and manipulation of atoms, are explained without jargon. Theres a progression in the first tape from a powers of 10 introduction to the scale of the microworld to the imaging of atoms. Tapes two and three relate biomotors (e.g., bacterial flagella) to micro-engineering. Japanese research is featured, but the coverage also includes lab visits in the U.S., England, and Germany. Its fascinating and challenging. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Microscope World Experiments With the Microscope 66 minutes Video, $79.00 with a 96pp teachers guide. DVD, free with a microscope purchase. 1992 (video), 2003 (DVD) Order from Microscope World, Inc., P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-0528 or 800-942-0528 or Sargent-Welch (item # WL6019J-VHS) at 800-727-4368, www.sargentwelch.com.. Now also available as a DVD, Adventures with a Microscope, free from Microscope World with a microscope purchase. Middle and high school. www.microscopeworld.com Narrator/producer/ex-teacher Jack Ross extends the inquiry begun at 30x in the previous tape to compound microscope magnifications. The first segment is a good introduction to the care and use of the microscope, how to make various types of slides, and how to measure specimens (an important but often ignored topic). Parts two and four presents the classic four of introductory cell biology well (onion skin, Elodea leaves, cheek cells and pond microorganisms), with clear instruction on how to prepare them. Part three is a lengthy investigation of prepared slides of biological specimens, which could be used at intervals in a general biology class. The manual is described in section 1A, curriculum guides. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Microscope World Smaller than the Eye Can See 14 minutes $49.00 with a 46 pp teachers guide 1989 From Microscope World, Inc., P.O.Box 230644, Encinitas, CA 92024; 619-942-0528 or 800-942-0528 www.microscopeworld.com All ages. Recommended www.microscopeworld.com The tapes and manuals from Microscope Worldare of excellent quality; this one is no exception. Free-living protists and microscopic animals are introduced with good photography, and both the narration and the teachers manual assume no previous knowledge. Organism size is presented well, using a superimposed ant or sewing needle rather than scale bars. The manual contains background information and references, lab procedures, copyable worksheets, and supply sources. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Neo/SCI Guide to Microlife 20 minutes $29.95 Item # E2-45-0002 from Neo/SCI Corp., PO Box 22729, Rochester NY 14692-2729, 800-657-6689. All ages Recommended www.neosci.com This video is a companion to the book of the same name, and its equally excellent; it will help beginners to learn how to really observe pond life. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Sullivan, J. Cells Alive 63 minutes $95.00 (separate segments available) 1999 Produced by Quill Graphics, 568 Taylors Gap Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903 , (804) 296-8994; order from Yahoo at http//st13.yahoo.net/cellsalive/ or www.cellsalive.com Middle school - adult. Recommended http://www.cellsalive.com/ The images from the outstanding Cells Alive website have been made available in both VHS video and CD-ROM formats, which will increase their classroom usefulness. Its a sequence of excellent film clips of a variety of living, moving cells and microorganisms, intended to supplement textbook content. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World WTTW, Chicago & Kurtis Productions Mystery Through the Lens 30 minutes $39.95 with a teachers guide. 1992 Order #426029A, code DM-SWEEP, from The New Explorers, Public Media Education, 5547 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, IL 60640-1199; 800-343-4312, x359. Grades 7-12 The New Explorers series presents the excitement of science by focusing on the research of outstanding scientists. This episode features distinguished light microscopist Walter McCrone and his microscopic detective work. His well-known analysis of the Shroud of Turin is included; the presentation is respectful without being religious. Its a well-done tape that can support a forensics study unit. 3 VideoTapes The Microscopic World Carlson, S., editor The Complete Collection of the Amateur Scientist on CD-ROM For Mac or Windows. Requires a Web browser; Netscape 4.0 is recommended. About $35 from software retailers. 2000 Published by the Tinkers Guild, Menlo Park, CA 94025,www.tinkersguild.com. Adult. The Amateur Scientist was a popular monthly column in the old-format Scientific American magazine. This CD-ROM version, edited by one of the last contributors to the old column, is better than a print collection of the old articles, since on the CD theyre indexed and rated for safety and current relevance. There are over 1000 projects, making it a gold mine for science fair participants. There are both chronological and topical indexes, but cross-indexing is only fair. Although there is a microscopy category, it contains less than a dozen adult-level articles. 4 CD-ROMs Corel CD Home Beyond the Naked Eye For DOS, Win 3.1, and Mac; installs easily. $32.95 1997 fFom the Edutainment Catalog as item #353049, call 800-338-3844; or other retail sources. Grades 8-12. Corels three-part Life Science Mystery series begins with the microscopic world of bacteria and viruses. Two situations are presented; diagnosis of a bacterial disease and creation of an AIDS-awareness program. Theres a lab in the research center, with an incubator (for the bacteria), light and scanning electron microscopes, and a harassed technician. The microscopes are used effectively, but the emphasis is on microbiology; scientific method is presented well. The adventure continues in the second CD, The Green Files (not reviewed) and concludes with Crisis at the Anamalia Research Center. This CD is similar to Science Sleuths, but for somewhat older students. 4 CD-ROMs Edmark Corp. Zap! For Macintosh or Windows 3.1 or 95. $29.95, with a 50 page users manual. 1998 From Edmark at PO Box 97201, Redmond, WA 98073-9721, 800-320-8379. Middle school. Recommended http://www.edmark.com. Subtitled Save the show with sound, light, and electricity, this CD-ROM is sure to capture the interest of a computer game-addicted middle schooler. All three topics are introduced in game format, complete with levels of complexity. In the optics section, laser beams are aimed with mirrors, lenses, prisms, and filters; the targets are eggs that hatch into cute monsters when activated by the beam. It actually does a very good job of teaching reflection, refraction, absorption, and color. The player who works through all levels of all three units then can set up the light show for a concert, and even manipulate the sound. Its much too time consuming to use in the classroom, but would be a delight for home use. There is ample reference material, and homeschool parents can set options to control complexity. 4 CD-ROMs Schoolhouse Interactive Get Up Close For either Mac (IIci or better) or Windows. $44.95 1995 Published by Schoolhouse Interactive, Inc., Lake Road, Charlotte, VT 05445. Available from Williamson Publishing Co., 800-234-8791. Elementary school? Microscopes and telescopes share this CD-ROM. Its animated, interactive, and accurate. Games and quizzes are used to reinforce, and many good light and electron micrographs (including stereo!) can be selected. The target audience isnt clear; although the quizzes and experiments are middle school level, Dr. Ole Moles cartoon antics will appeal to a lower grade level. 4 CD-ROMs Videodiscovery, Inc. Science Sleuths, Volumes 1 & 2 For Macintosh 7.1 or Windows 3.1. $79.00 each or $149.00 for both, with teachers manual and assessment software on 3.5 disk. 1995 Grades 5-9. Science Sleuths is an award-winning series of mysteries for middle school students. Designed to build critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, the series challenges students to solve real-world problems by researching clues and conducting science experiments using interactive tools. Each volume contains two mysteries, each with 6 solutions of increasing difficulty. One mystery in each volume provides a microscope as one of the investigative tools; although use of magnification is extremely limited, these CDs are great inquiry science. 4 CD-ROMs Cubic Science, Inc. Virtual Physics Minimum system: Windows95 or 3.1 (Pentium 75) or Mac (68040) with 12mb. $34.95 1997 From Cubic at 800-383-6363 or #712001 from The Edutainment Catalog, P.O.Box 21210, Boulder, CO 80308; 800-338-3844 . Grades 6-9 http://www.virtualphysics.com/vpedutco.htm. Waves, light, mirrors, and lenses are among the experimental topics covered with animated tutorials, movies (very low resolution), and review problems. There is a simple space aliens game which must be followed to access the various topics; lenses are reached via wave theory and refraction, which is good. The lens segment is flawed by inaccurately drawn ray path diagrams, which will be corrected in the next release; check with Cubic for availability. Information is available on the web. For grades 6-9; the game is lower level, but the math is high school materiel. 4 CD-ROMs Optics Griffen, B.J. The Virtual SEM, 1.3 Its public domain software and can be downloaded from the Internet at ftp:www//.amc.anl.gov $30 US (bank draft) 1995 From B.J. Griffen, Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis, University of Western Australia Nedlands, Perth, W.A., Australia 6907; Email bjg@cyllene.uwa.edu.au . Grades 8-12 and adult. Although this CD-ROM is intended as a college-level teaching aid for beginning scanning electron microscopists, it has exciting potential as a supplement for interested middle and high school students. Theres enough information in the tutorial to enable a student to use an on-screen SEM control panel. The successful operator can select a specimen; opal, a housefly, and a plant stem are available in version 1.2. Magnification, focus, contrast, and brightness are all controllable; its a realistic simulation. 4 CD-ROMs Optics Pagliaro, l., Murray, C., Curran, G., Orkand, A., and Astion, M. Microscopy-Tutor. For Macintosh and Windows 3.1 or 95/NT; easy installation. $195.00 plus shipping. 1997 ISBN 0-7817-1217-3 Distributed by Lippincott-Raven Publishers, 12105 Insurance Way, Hagerstown, MD 21740, 800-638-3030. Adult. Developed by the Department of Laboratory Medecine and the Center for Bioengineering at the University of Washington, Seattle, this is a college-level introduction to the use of a research-quality compound microscope. Its extensive use of QuickTime animation to illustrate alignment steps and optical principles make it much more than a book on a CD; moving ripples on a pond really do make it easier to understand wave theory! Kohler illumination is emphasized and explained. Most, but not all, terminology is defined; a glossary would help beginners. Proper care of lenses is covered well, but theres no instruction on how to use immersion oil properly. There is a brief concluding self-test that is more of a review of important information than a quiz. Although its a good CD, its definitely not appropriate for precollege microscopists. 4 CD-ROMs Optics Queensland University of Technology Microscopy For Windows 3.1 or higher; no Mac version. $99.95 2000 Purchase from Knowledge Books and Software, 800-600-2545 (in Australia, 1-800-773393) www.kbs.com.au, Neo/Sci P.O. Box 22729, Rochester, NY 14692-2729, 800-526-6689, www.neosci.com or Carolina Biological, 800-334-5551, www.carolina.com, or Clearvue/eav, 800-253-2788, www.clearvue.com. Grades 9-14 Recommended The interactive capabilities of theCD-ROM format are used well to present an introduction to the fundamentals of both light and electron microscopy. Almost all of the modern microscopies are described briefly but clearly; the only major exception is scanning tunneling/atomic force microscopy. Excellent micrographs make it easy to compare the visual effects of the various imaging methods. Video clips present microscope use and preparation methods; animation is used for the physics of microscope optics. Theres an extensive tutorial, assessment, and a good image gallery. Use of this CD could greatly enhance the understanding of textbook images by high school and college students. 4 CD-ROMs Optics Clearvue/eav How to Use the Compound Microscope Requires Mac(68040) or Windows 3.1 or 95. $75.00 1998 From the publisher at 800-253-2788; 6465 N. Avondale Ave., Chicago, Il 60631-1996. High school. This CD-ROM is a reissue of Clearvue/eavs 1991 two-videotape Introduction to the Microscope.although that fact isnt noted on either the CD or its packaging. The contents are identical, but the CD adds the teaching amenities that CDs do so well: editing and report writing, multiple choice tests, and individual student records. Instructions on the use of a compound microscope are clear and well illustrated. The advice on the use of a substage condenser may be a bit too simple (move it to adjust image brightness), but most middle school microscopes dont have condensers. Poor advice is given on the use of oil immersion objectives. A major error in the original video is repeated; benzene or ether are suggested to clean lenses. Ether is very flammable, and benzene is a biohazard; neither has any place in a middle school science lab. Half of the CD content is a survey of microorganisms, and there is good advice on preparation of hay infusions and wet mount slides. The CD readme warns that the user may experience sound fadeout problems; that happened on the reviewers Power Mac. Although detailed advice is given on control panel adjustments to cure the problem, making those changes for one CD probably wont be possible in a school computer lab situation. Fortunately, sound isnt essential; the CD voice is identical to the on-screen text. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Digital Imaging Associates Microscopy Requires Mac II or better with HyperCard 2.1 or HyperCard Player; no IBM version. $65.00 1995 Item #Z4CD2360 from Clearvue/eav, 6465 N. Avondale, Chicago, IL 60631-1909; 800-253-2788. High school-adult. This is a microscope users manual that emphasizes written instruction; interaction is limited to selection of still images (e.g., microscope parts) and an occasional film clip. Since it can be user-modified (with PEAK software), it might be useful for someone creating a lab manual. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Leica Microsystems Discover the Microscope For Mac or Windows. $89 + shipping 2000 From Leica dealers or Leica Customer Service at (800)248-0123, ext. 1 Recommended This CD is subtitled a complete multimedia introduction for students, and it fills that promise well, with first-rate photography (by Bruce Russell) and animation.. Its easy to use and suitable for high school or introductory college biology classes; parts probably can be used with advanced middle school students. An interactive virtual microscope teaches slide manipulation and magnification. The descriptions and demonstrations of imaging modes and slide making methods are outstanding. Theres excellent text throughout (by Ken Rainis), including detailed, printable instructions for both student and teacher for the exercises presented. Its regrettable that Leica has chosen to include a commercial section on their microscopes on a relatively expensive educational CD; nevertheless, its definitely RECOMMENDED. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Microscopy-UK Microscopy for the PC For PC only; no Mac. #24.95 1997 Available from the Microscopy UK website. High school - adult. http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/sell/cdlist.html A virtual microscope is presented as a control panel that permits adjustment of many parameters. There are many slide sets (all but one are biological) supplemented with a library of images, quicktime movies, and articles selected from the popular English amateur microscopy website. The CD-ROM has won awards in England, and the virtual microscope itself can be downloaded free at http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/prodir/software/softmol.html. Not yet reviewed.. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Microscopy-UK Slide-making CD For PC only; no Mac. #26.50 2000 Available from the Microscopy UK website. http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/sell/cdlist.html How to prepare, mount and ring fluid mount slides using NBS aqueous mountant. Not yet reviewed. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Neo/SCI Intel Play QX3 Computer Microscope, School Edition, and QX3 + Computer Microscope, School Edition, Macintosh Version CD-ROMs for either Windows or Mac, Packaged with a manual (see curriculum guides) and 4 prepared slides; not available separately. Windows: 98 or later, USB port. Mac: OS 8.6-9.2.2, 300MHz G3 or faster, USB port. $79.95 2001 (Windows), 2003 (Mac) QX3 school upgrade # E2-55-2001 from Neo/SCI Corp., PO Box 22729, Rochester NY 14692-2729, 800-657-6689. Upper middle & high school www.neosci.com The Intel QX3 is a n inexpensive (about $100) computer-linked microscope. It is no longer an Intel product; see http://www.playdigitalblue.com/products/qx3/main. It was originally marketed as a toy, but several adult users have expanded its use; see http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/artjan00/jhqx3.html. Neo/SCI has developed software and a manual to greatly expand its classroom usefulness. See the curriculum guides entry for more information. Macintosh users have been frustrated by the lack of QX3 interface software; Neo/SCIs new (2003) CD is welcome. Neo/SCIs Macintosh software only works for OS 8.6-9.2.2; image capture software for Mac OS 10.1.5 is available as freeware at http://homepage.mac.com/aireck/ . 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Neuronware Scopemaster For Mac or Windows. $70 - $75 1997 Neuronware, 15 Madison Ave, Toronto, Ontario M5R 2F2, Canada. 3 U.S. sources: Clearvue, 800-253-2788, Flinn Scientific, 800-452-1261, and Sargent Welch (item # WL6013-08HYB), 800-727-4368. Middle and high school. Recommended http:// www.snap.ca/neuronware/index.htm An interactive microscope teaches the use of the controls of a compound microscope: The user can select three objectives, adjust the substage diaphragm, and use coarse and fine focus. Advice on microscope use appears if a mistake is made; if the advice is ignored, the high power objective even breaks with a resounding crack if the slide hits it! Slides must be centered on the stage in a realistic way that makes the inverted image of the compound microscope understandable; it will be nonthreatening, nondestructive practice for a beginner. Ten sets of nine slides each (mostly biological) are included, each with its own well-written reference book; the goal is specimen identification. The images are good color light micrographs; each can be viewed full-screen after the microscope is in focus, or all can be reviewed quickly in teacher mode. There is a self-test, and a printable test for class use. More information (and a downloadable update for Windows) is available on the web. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscope and Specimen Preparation Biodisc, Inc. Enclycopedia of Biological Microslides With a 100 page, 8 1/2x11 textbook and a complete image index, $95.00 (major price reduction 2/00) From Clearvue/eav, 6465 N. Avondale Ave., Chicago, IL 60631-1996, (800)253-2788. Order 384CD 2555 for Mac (7.1 or later) or #84CD 2456 for Windows. Also available directly from Biodisc, 800-453-3009. Grades 7-12. Over 4700 plant and animal color photomicrographs make this a bargain in comparison to the cost of an equally comprehensive slide collection. Images may be moved and magnification changed, which somewhat mimics actual microscope use .So many images on one CD-ROM means limited resolution, however; pixels are obvious on full-screen images. Slide search was cumbersome on the reviewers PowerMac; it was written for Windows and probably performs well on a PC. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World BioScope Initiative Cell Structure and Function Autostarts on both Mac and Windows; requires Flash software (included). $44.95 plus shipping for a single user, $295.00 site license (25 users), with a 63 page users manual. 2000 Order from www.ylearn.com. or (800)320-6715. Grades 9-14. Recommended The BioScope Initiative of Purdue University has just released this CD; it will be joined soon by similar CDs on Genetics and Microbiology. The title of this one is a bit deceptive; about half of it is pure microscopy, rather than cell biology. Although its intended for high school and introductory college students, it will answer many questions for advanced middle schoolers and their teachers. It uses a web browser format, so Internet-aware students will find it very easy to use. Its interactive and well designed, with good graphics. An active Internet connection is desirable, since there are frequent links with the BioScope website (www.bioscope.org) for supplemental information, current hotlinks, quiz answers, etc. The historical introduction to microscopy is outstanding and the how-to-do-it instructions for basic compound microscope use are clear and grade-appropriate. There is a unique, informative section that describes and compares many modern microscopies: standard light, interference contrast, fluorescence, confocal, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, etc.; the user can select a sample from a short list and view an actual image of it as seen with each of the microscopes. The cell biology is good, too, including a clever build a cell sequence. The medical topics must have been chosen by teenagers or someone who knows them well - the microbiology of pimples is included! Good quizzes can be used for review or test. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Carolina Biological Neo-Slide Collection Requires Windows 95, Mac 7.5, 16 MB RAM, or better. $59.95 each or $379.95 for all seven. 2000 Purchase from Carolina Biological, 800-334-5551 or www.carolina.com;. Grades 6-14. The teacher who is doing wet microscopy still needs prepared slides for many topics, and theyre expensive. These CDs provide a usable substitute at moderate cost, although one of the CD-ROM atlases might be a better investment for a comprehensive survey of animal tissues; the CD in this series selected for review had just 50 images. The text accompanying each image is well written and informative, and a brief multiple-choice quiz is available with each. Magnification change and measurement are possible. Titles are: BA-40-1308A Viruses and Bacteria, BA-40-8792A, Protozan Diversity, BA-40-8766A Algal Diversity, BA-40-1342A Fungi Diversity, BA-40-1350 Plant Diversity, BA-40-1060A Animal Cells and Tissues, and BA-39-1130 Human Disease. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Clearvue/eav Microscopic Anatomy For either Mac (7.0) or Windows. $110.00 From Clearvue/eav, 800-253-2788; order #84CD 2589;. Grades 10-12 and adult. This is a less comprehensive collection than Biodisc/Clearvues Encyclopedia of Biological Microslides; there are 1200 mammalian images. It does include electron micrographs, plus nearly 2000 test questions. If this CD is too expensive, a good atlas is available on the Web at http://www.udel.edu/Biology/Wags/histopage/histopage.htm 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Corel Corporation Corel Professional Photos For both Mac and Windows. About $25.00 per CD-ROM;. Contact Corel, 1600 Carling Ave. Ottowa, Ontario K1Z 8R7, Canada, phone (613)728-8200 or FAX (613)761-9176 for the names of retail dealers. Adult. Copyable professional stock photos are an excellent source of high quality images for classroom use. Corel has hundreds of titles; two relevant ones (each with 100 images) are #645000, Microscopic Images (colorized SEMs of biological subjects) and #610000, Sand Grains of the World (stunning images of shell, gemstone, and other mineral sands). Both Mac and Windows provide thumbnail views, but the CD itself provides a slide show only for Windows; Mac users must use an image program to display full screen photos. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Discovery Multimedia The Histology CD For Power Mac (OS 7.0 or better), Windows 95/NT, or UNIX. $16.00 1998 Published by the Biology Dept., San Diego State University, San Diego, CA 92182-4614, 619-594-5415. Adult. A good CD should be both fast and interactive; this one is neither. The 175 images (140 light micrographs, 35 SEMs) are organized by organ systems, but there is no comprehensive index; loading system submenus to select images makes searching tedious. The CD works within Netscape 3.0 (included) or other recent browsers. This limits the useful image size, requiring lots of scrolling. So although its low price is tempting, it wont help a precollege teacher. It DOES have an outstanding advantage for the college instructor who wants to teach morphometric analysis, because the images are linked to problem sets that use the program NIH Image (included for Mac) for measurement. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Eames Office Powers of 10 Interactive For Mac or Windows; requires QuickTime 2.1.2 or better. $79 1999 From either the Eames Office, 2665 Main St., Santa Monica, CA, 90405, 310-396-5991, www.eamesoffice.com, or www.powersof10.com. High school-adult. Recommended http://www.powersof10.com. The latest in the series of Powers of 10 variants (film, video, DVD, book, flipbook) is a complex, interactive CD. It goes far beyond the sequence of sizes that are brilliantly presented by its predecessors (and are available on this CD), extending the mathematical concept into time. People involved, the tools that they use, the places that they work, the things that they study, etc. are presented in an interwoven, interactive format. A sampling of the CD is available at www.powersof10.com Its supposed to be intuitive, but the four page viewer guide will be an essential for the beginning user. Its too complex for a beginning microscopist in elementary or middle school, but the other formats are RECOMMENDED for those grades. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Excalibur Mineral Company Photographic Guide to Mineral Species For Windows or Mac; requires Netscape Communicator (included). $69.95+ $4.00 shipping 1999 from Excalibur at 1000 North Division SStreet, Peekskill, NY 10566, Adult. Recommended http://www.bestweb.net/~excalmin This is an adult CD, but the superb photos make it an excellent visual supplement for a student who is learning about crystals and other minerals. Its truly a coffee table book on a CD with an unbelievable 5400 photos, which search and load rapidly in Netscape (and not at all in Internet Explorer). There is an eye-catching 300 image automatic slide show which can be set to play continuously. Images can be searched by location or mineral content. They are mostly micromounts, photographed at dissecting scope magnifications. Descriptions are minimal; it isnt intended as a textbook substitute. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Michigan State University, Communication Technology Lab and Center for Microbial Ecology Microbe Zoo Runs on Mac or Windows . Installs easily. $34.98 1996-97 Issued by Peregrine Publishers and available as #80540 from The PC Zone, 800-258-2088, or The Mac Zone, 800-248-0800. See the website for information on multiple-copy orders. For grades 5-7 Recommended http://commtechlab.msu.edu/ctlprojects/dlc-me/ The Microbe Zoo presents 140 organisms in excellent full-screen micrographs (LM, TEM, and SEM; all are monochrome). It invites young people to actively explore the world of microbes; most are bacteria, plus some fungi, protists, and multicellular organisms. Learners select microbe zoo habitats such as dirt, water, and inside of humans and animals. At the Snack Shop, for example, you can look at the microbes that live in snack foods. Within each habitat, students zoom down to see the microbe. The Size Machine presents both measurements and relative size well; it and other animations arent cute and wont irritate older students. Text and audio are informative, and there are four good lesson plans. There is a searchable database and report-writing capability. A preview is available on the web. For grades 5-7; usable in high school. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Mona Group LLC Understand! Biology: Molecules, Cells, and Genes For Mac and Windows. $29.95 1998 ISBN 0-9659432-1-6 From The Mona Group, P.O. Box 407, Sunderland, MA 01375-0407; 413-548-3955; sales@monagroup.com. High school - adult. Recommended Those who teach cell biology will shout with joy when they look at this CD. Its listed here because it includes 17 video microscopy sequences plus 125 micrographs (LM and EM) that present the best modern microscopy of protists, cells in culture, organelles, etc.. Most content is college level, but the middle schooler who wants to see what Paramecium really looks like up close, for example, should be thrilled with the images. High school teachers will be able to use the fine drawings and animations of cell structure. The basic CD is a real bargain, An Instructors Version is available, for $69.95; with it, teachers can assemble a full-screen slide show of selected images . 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Neo/Sci Corporation Exploring with a Microscope Requires 16 MB RAM, Windows 95 or Mac 7.5, or better. $99.95 2000 Purchase from Neo/Sci, P.O. Box 22729, Rochester, NY 14692-2729, 800-526-6689, www.neosci.com or Carolina Biological, 800-334-5551, www.carolina.com. Grades 6-12 Recommended Basic microscopy is introduced on this CD with brief but well-written text (by Ken Rainis, co-author of the outstanding Guide to Microlife) and animation. The slide collection contains just 14 images, but theyre excellent micrographs of microorganisms, simple invertebrates, and plants. The most helpful segment is a series of animations showing how to do various important specimen preparation methods: hanging drop slides, wet whole mounts, bacterial smears and stains, squash preparations, and hand-microtome sections; this information isnt duplicated in any of the other videos and CDs reviewed here. Suggestions for further investigations follow a useful quiz format. The extensive dictionary will help a middle school student use this CD, but its probably better for high school. A 17 page teachers guide and 26 pages of copyable student worksheets ship with the CD; they provide a complete framework for classroom use. Although it installs easily on both platforms, Mac users may have to reset the display size in their monitor control panel. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World ScienceWorks SlideWorks Beginner Slides For Mac or Windows; hard drive installation recommended. $29.95 + shipping 1999 Carolina Biological Supply, PO Box 6000, Burlington, NC 27216-6000, 800-334-5551 as #398713, or directly from ScienceWorks, 808 Retford Circle, Winston-Salem, NC, 800-478-8476. Probably middle school. http://www.scienceclass.com 45 common specimens (microorganisms, various cells, thread, kitchen spices and crystals, newsprint, etc.) can be moved from a slide box to a microscope stage, focused, and viewed at three magnifications in a realistic manner. Good quality full-screen images can be selected, and a student can draw an image, take notes, and print the result. Regrettably, it isnt possible to move the slide on the stage, which can teach a beginner how to manipulate the inverted image of a compound scope. The brief descriptive text for each specimen could be more helpful (e.g.,we should be told that the scope optics reverse the image of the letter e, rather than that it is the commonest letter). There are quizzes, simple games, a pronouncing glossary with both simple and complex terms, and a link to the ScienceWorks website, which has supplemental educational content. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Sullivan, J. Cells Alive Windows & Mac; requires an internet browser (Netscape or equivalent). $80 1999 Produced by Quill Graphics, 568 Taylors Gap Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903 , (804) 296-8994; order from www.cellsalive.com orYahoo at http://st13.yahoo.net/cellsalive/ Middle school - adult. Recommended http://www.cellsalive.com The images from the outstanding Cells Alive website have been made available in both VHS video and CD-ROM formats, which will greatly increase their classroom usefulness. Its a true copy of the website, and it acts like one - complete with download delays. Nevertheless, the micrographs, drawings, text, and excellent film clips of a variety of living, moving cells and microorganisms will make it a valuable supplement to textbook content. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Vazzana, J. Microscope - Nature Explorer. The Mac (7.0 or better) version is available now (inquire about Windows) . $69.00 plus shipping 1995 Orange Cherry/New Media Schoolhouse, P.O.Box 390, Pound Ridge, NY 10576; 914-764-4104 or 800-672-6002. Age 9 & up. Professor Scope introduces light and electron microscopes in the Nature Center; the menu then offers 34 objects to view grouped in the categories Air, Grass/trees, Pond, and Rocks. Each object requires mouse focusing and is accompanied by written and voice text. Theres a good concept here; unfortunately, the execution has problems. Most of the objects are line drawings, not micrographs, and there is no magnification information. Much of the text is simple and informative, but some of the simplification is confusing or inaccurate. Installation and use are simple, but there are a few software bugs. Orange Cherry plans corrections in the future. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World Wilson, F., Kestenbaum, M., Gibney, J., & Matta, S. Histology Image Review For PCs only. $50.00 1999 From Appleton & Lange Electronic Media, 107 Elm St., P.O. Box 120041,Stamford, CT 06912-0041, 800-423-1359, or Interactive Teachers, 20 Drake Lane, Oakland CA 94611-2613, 888-232-6133, hschott@aol.com. Although this is an adult CD, its over 1,400 images from both light and electron microscopes may be a helpful supplement for an upper-grade teacher who wants to guide students through cytology, the biology of tissues, and the organ systems. Each screen consists of both images and text; the image appears on the left side of the screen, while the accompanying text is shown on the right. Not yet reviewed. 4 CD-ROMs The Microscopic World WWW Site 3D Images: http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/amateurs/mic3d/3dfront.htmlhttp://www.feic.com/gallery/gallery.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Amateur microscopy: http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk 5 WWW WWW Site Animations: http://research.amnh.org/idl/scivizgallery/galleries.html 5 WWW WWW Site Ask-a-microscopist: http://www.msa.microscopy.com/Ask-A-Microscopist.html 5 WWW WWW Site Buying a microscope: http://www.msa.microscopy.com/ProjectMicro/BuyMicroscopes.htmlhttp://www.greatscopes.com/important.htmhttp://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/dww/novice/choice.htmhttp://www.microscopeworld.comhttp://microscope-microscope.org/ 5 WWW WWW Site Cleaning microscopes: http://www.zoo.utoronto.ca/scopeman.htmhttp://microscope-microscope.org/ David Bentley (request PDF) 5 WWW WWW Site Crystals: http://www.crystal-land.com http://www.denniskunkel.comhttp://www.cellsalive.comhttp://home.att.net/~seberhardhttp://www.ScienceArt.nl http://www.scienceart.nl/Frames/HOMEpage.htm http://www.crystal-land.com/ 5 WWW WWW Site Histology atlas: http://www.udel.edu/Biology/Wags/histopage/histopage.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Histology links: http://www.histology.to/links.html#anchor201911 http://www.udel.edu/Biology/Wags/histopage/colorpage/colorpage.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Home-made microscope: http://www.mos.org/sln/sem/myomicro.htmlhttp://freeweb.pdq.net/headstrong/micro.htmhttp://www.topscience.orghttp://freeweb.pdq.net/headstrong/micro.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Image galleries: http://resolution.umn.edu/MMS/ProjectMicro//gallery.html http://www.feic.com/gallery/gallery.htmhttp://microscopy.fsu.edu/galleria/index.html http://www.uq.oz.au/nanoworld/images_1.html http://www.eBioMedia.comhttp://www.MicroscopyU.comhttp://remf.dartmouth.edu/imagesindex.htmlhttp://www.ebiomedia.com http://www.microscopyu.com/smallworld/gallery/index.html http://www.mos.org/sln/sem/seminfo.html http://www2.umist.ac.uk/material/research/intmic/schools/curious/curious.htmhttp://www.microscopyu.com/http://www.olympusmicro.com/ 5 WWW WWW Site Image hotlinks: http://www.mwrn.com/feature/educatio.htm http://www.ou.edu/research/electron/www-vl/image.shtml 5 WWW WWW Site Image quizzes: http://www.exn.ca/@discovery.ca (selectSmall Wonders)http://www.theimage.com/closeup/closeup.html 5 WWW WWW Site Insects: http://www.ou.edu/research/electron/pictures/lion1/ant.shtmlhttp://www.ou.edu/research/electron/oms/uglybug/ http://www.nau.edu/~electron http://www.feic.com/esem/index.htmhttp://remf.dartmouth.edu/imagesindex.html http://www.ent.iastate.edu/imagegal/ticks/ http://www.ent.iastate.edu/imagegal/phthiraptera/ [lice] 5 WWW WWW Site K-12 microscopy resources: Recommended http://www.mwrn.com/feature/educatio.htm http://www.hei.org/htm/sk.htmhttp://microscopy.fsu.edu/optics/webresources/index.htmlhttp://swehsc.pharmacy.arizona.edu/exppath/http://microscope-microscope.org/ 5 WWW WWW Site Leeuwenhoek microscope: http://www.sirius.com/~alshinn/http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/artoct00/jhps150.html 5 WWW WWW Site Living cells: http://www.cellsalive.com/ 5 WWW WWW Site looking vs. seeing: http://shs.westport.k12.ct.us/mjvl/biology/microscope/looksee.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Macro/micro poster: http://www.apogee-ccd.com/postergraph.html 5 WWW WWW Site metals: http://www.thebritishmuseum.ac.uk/science/text/investigate-t.html http://invsee.eas.asu.edu/nmodules/engmod/visualizing.html 5 WWW WWW Site MICRO lessons: http://www.ccmr.cornell.edu/microworld http://resolution.umn.edu/MMS/ProjectMicro 5 WWW WWW Site Microbe images: http://www.tulane.edu/~dmsander/Big_Virology/BVHomePage.htmlhttp://www.MicrobeLibrary.org http://rhino.bocklabs.wisc.edu/cgi-bin/virusworld/artgallery.pl 5 WWW WWW Site Microbe zoo: http://commtechlab.msu.edu/ctlprojects/dlc-me/ 5 WWW WWW Site Microbiology lessons: http://www.microbe.orghttp://www.asmusa.org/edusrc/edu39.htmhttp://www.microbeworld.org/mlc/pages/activities.asp 5 WWW WWW Site Micrographs as art: http://www.lucent.com/minds/innovating/microscapes.html 5 WWW WWW Site Microscope history: http://www.sciences.demon.co.uk/whistmic.htmhttp://www.utmem.edu/personal/thjones/hist/hist_mic.htm http://www.uga.edu/caur/museum.htm http://lsvl.la.asu.edu/paperproject/Microsopehistory/ http://library.utmb.edu/scopes/welcome.htm 5 WWW WWW Site microscopes in archaeology: http://www.thebritishmuseum.ac.uk/science/techniques/sr-tech-intro.html 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopes on stamps: http://www.med.virginia.edu/med-ed/cell/stamps/index.html 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopy books (England): http://www.savonabooks.free-online.co.uk 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopy experiments: http://www.mos.org/sln/SEM/resources.htmlhttp://www.greatscopes.com/activity.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopy for kids: http://www.rmcain.com/mcama/ 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopy links: http://www.couger.com/microscope/links/gclinks.htmlhttp://microscope-microscope.org/ 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopy notebook page http://www.greatscopes.com/journal.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Microscopy of food: http://www.cyberus.ca/~scimat/f-introd.shtml http://anka.livstek.lth.se:2080/microscopy/gallery.htm http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/dlc-me/zoo/zbmain.html 5 WWW WWW Site minerals: http://fsc.fernbank.edu/Geology/GEOWEB/pmicro/Pmicro.html http://www.mineralarts.com/micromin/micromin.html http://fsc.fernbank.edu/Geology/GEOWEB/pmicro/Pmicro.html http://www.mineralarts.com/micromin/micromin.html 5 WWW WWW Site Optics lessons: http://chroma.mbt.washington.edu/outreach/hands_on_science.htmlhttp://www.exploratorium.edu/snacks/snacksbysubject.html http://microscope-microscope.org/ 5 WWW WWW Site plankton: http://commtechlab.msu.edu/sites/dlc-me/zoo/zbmain.html http://www.soton.ac.uk/~ibg/ 5 WWW WWW Site plastics http://www.scienceart.nl/Frames/HOMEpage.htm http://www.scienceart.nl/Frames/HOMEpage.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Powers of 10: http://microscopy.fsu.edu/optics/tutorials/java/powersof10/index.htmlhttp://mse.mcmaster.ca/research/micro/http://www.powersof10.com http://www.silkentent.com/gus1911/RonPond.htm http://www.soton.ac.uk/~ibg/ 5 WWW WWW Site Protozoa/protists: http://internt.nhm.ac.uk/jdsml/zoology/protistvideo http://www.funsci.com/fun3_en/protists/entrance.htmhttp://megasun.bch.umontreal.ca/protists/protists.htmlhttp://www.BGSU.edu/departments/biology/algae/index.htmlhttp://www.comet.net/gek/phytob.htm http://.www.microscope-microscope.org/ 5 WWW WWW Site Remote access SEM: http://www.msa.microscopy.com/MicroScape/MicroScape.html http://bugscope.beckman.uiuc.edu/http://www.sci.sdsu.edu/emfacility/CUCMEoutreach.htmlhttp://monarch.mcs.csuhayward.edu/~irsa 5 WWW WWW Site Reviews of Microscopic Explorations Recommended http://www.enc.org/resources/records/full/0,1240,014527,00.shtm http://www.store.nsta.org http://www.cellbioed.org/articles/vol2no1/toc.cfm 5 WWW WWW Site Sand: http://www.ScienceArt.nl http://microscope-microscope.org/applications/sand/microscopic-sand.htm http://www.sandcollector.com http://www.jaster.20m.com/index.html http://www.netaxs.com/~sparky/sand_col.htm http://www.scienceart.nl/Frames/HOMEpage.htm 5 WWW WWW Site SEM image galleries: http://www.pbrc.hawaii.edu/~kunkel/http://www.pbrc.hawaii.edu/bemf/microangela/ http://www.mos.org/sln/SEM/gallery.htmlhttp://www.microscopy-today.com/Scharf.html 5 WWW WWW Site Snowflakes: http://www.mee-inc.com/imagegallery.htmlhttp://www.lpsi.barc.usda.gov/emusnow 5 WWW WWW Site STM images: http://www.di.com/Theater/Main.html 5 WWW WWW Site Using a microscope http://www.cin.butte.cc.ca.us/~jfourcro/MCAA%20Site/biology1/2cells/mod2_160.html http://shs.westport.k12.ct.us/mjvl/biology/microscope/microscope.htm 5 WWW WWW Site Virtual light microscope: http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/prodir/software/softmol.html http://seansys.tierranet.com/LightScape/java/webscope/WebScope.mv#top 5 WWW WWW Site Virtual microscopy library: http://www.ou.edu/research/electron/www-vl/ 5 WWW WWW Site Virtual SEM: http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/primer/java/electronmicroscopy/magnify1/index.html 5 WWW WWW Site QX3 , QX 5 microscopes http://www.microscopy-uk.org.uk/mag/artjan00/jhqx3.html http://microscopy.fsu.edu/optics/intelplay/ http://www.playdigitalblue.com/products/qx3/main. http://homepage.mac.com/aireck/ http://www.playdigitalblue.com/products/qx5/info/.http://www.toygroove.com/qx5-computer-microscope.html http://homepage.mac.com/aireck/qx3/ WWW