Microscope Parts and Functions Diagrams, Worksheets, Assessment & Two Easy Labs

You’ll love this introduction to microscopes! A labeled diagram teaches parts, and a sheet of definitions explains functions. Worksheets, flashcards, assessment, and two easy labs are also included.

Open the preview to take a closer look at the science activities. They were created for students in fourth, fifth, and sixth grades.

First, kids explore parts of a microscope. A labeled diagram includes:

• Arm
• Base
• Coarse focus
• Diaphragm
• Eyepiece, or ocular lens
• Fine focus
• Illuminator (mirror or light)
• Nosepiece
• Objective lens
• Stage
• Stage clips
• Tube

Second, they learn each part’s function. A list provides definitions for the parts listed above, as well as information about magnification.

Flashcards provide practice. Just print back-to-back and cut.

Three versatile worksheets can be used for additional practice and/or assessment.

• A diagram of a microscope with response boxes asks kids to recall names of parts.
• A parallel diagram lists the parts and asks kids to place the corresponding number in a response box.
• A matching activity asks kids to match parts with their functions.

Now they’re ready to use microscopes! A reference guide provides steps for safely carrying and focusing.

An introductory lab asks kids to focus, draw and label grains of sand, salt, and sugar. They compare and explain differences revealed under the microscope.

Finally, students observe, draw and label onion and cheek cells under the microscope. An informative text explains plant and animal cells, as well as basic organelles.

Files include everything you need for an introduction to plant and animal cells.

• Lesson plans
• Parts of a microscope labeled diagram and two related worksheets
• Functions of a microscope definitions and corresponding matching worksheet
• Flashcards (four pages print back-to-back using two sheets of paper)
• Carrying and focusing reference guide
• Introductory lab sheet (sand, salt, sugar)
• Cells informative text and lab sheet

Your students or homeschool group will love it – and you will too!

• The excitement begins when you begin talking about microscopes.
• When you actually break them out, engagement builds.
• Age-appropriate labs support upper elementary students and scaffold their skills with this science tool.

Enjoy teaching!

Brenda Kovich