Blog

Summary:

• Histochemistry is the science of using stains to study structures and processes at the cellular level,
• The stain colors also add visual interest to the microscopic images,
• You can use your Foldscope to view prepared slides, create your own stained slides, and share your results on the Microcosmos!!

Summary:

• Plants grow leaves in the spring and begin the process of photosynthesis,
• Close observation can reveal the slight differences between the shapes and colors in plant cells,
• Use your Foldscope to collect data about the shape and color of a variety of plant cells and share it on the Microcosmos!!

Summary:

• Dr. Marie Clark Taylor, an African American botanist was the first woman of any race to get an advanced scientific degree from Fordham University,
• Taylor encouraged the use of microscopes and real biological samples in schools to improve science education,
• Use your Foldscope to observe botany in action and share what you discover on the Microcosmos!!

Summary:

• Owl pellets contain the indigestible bones, fur, and exoskeletons of their prey,
• Owl pellets provide information about the owls that live in an area,
• Scientists can reconstruct the skeletons of the owl’s prey from what they find in owl pellets,
• Use your Foldscope 2.0 to take owl pellet dissections to another level and share your pictures and videos on the Microcosmos!

Foldscope Explores… Mosquito Larva!!

Summary:

• Seeds are composed of only three parts: seed coat, embryo, and food source.
• The intricate beauty of seeds can be seen in microscopic images.
• Share your observations of seeds with others to show what you learned!

Summary:

• Dust is a combination of pollen, dirt, insect parts, hair, dust mites, and skin cells.
• Microscopic organisms like bacteria, mold, and fungi are all around us - even though we can’t see them.
• A Foldscope and a petri dish can help you to see the dust and microorganisms that live all around us.
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

Summary:

• Vascular plants distribute water and food internally via specialized structures.
• Xylem moves water up from the roots to the leaves.
• Phloem moves food up and down to where it is needed.
• You can see these structures using your Foldscope! Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

Summary:

• Ladybugs are not all female.
• Ladybugs are not bugs.
• Microscopic studies can reveal connections between the structure and function of the different parts of the ladybug.
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!