Blog

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!

Summary:

• The microscopic properties of soil can help you to understand the macroscopic properties of soil and how it is used.
• Making connections between a natural resource and its cultural significance can deepen your understanding and appreciation of the resource.
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

• Students need opportunities to use scientific tools and equipment
• Using a fun thing like candy can make taking scientific measurements an enjoyable experience
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

Foldscope Explores... The Fibonacci Sequence

This blog explores the pattern of numbers known as the Fibonacci Sequence. You will learn how to calculate numbers in the sequence, how to model the numbers into a spiral, and how to find the Fibonacci Sequence in nature! And of course, you will take a close look at what you find by putting it in a Foldscope!

Summary:

• Spider webs are made of four basic parts
• Microscopic views of spider silk reveal the structural differences of the four parts
• The vibrations traveling along the silk strands alert the spider as to what is happening on the web
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

Summary:

• The colors of fall leaves are inside the leaves all year round.
• Observations of color gradation is a way to incorporate the elements of art into your science lesson.
• Studying the process of color change in leaves will improve understanding of the life cycle of trees.
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

Summary:

• Sand is a great way to ease into the new school year
• Sand is interdisciplinary
• Sand makes science fun
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!

TL;DR

• Close observation helps improve focus
• Close observation involves all five senses
• Close observation is interdisciplinary
• Share your observations with others to show what you learned!