STR - School Technology Resources has just announced the release of a series of highly engaging curriculum lesson booklets that involve using hand-held video microscopes to teach science to K-5 students.
Hand-held microscopes are easy for children to use: by simply holding the scope in their hand and touching an object, one can immediately get a magnified image on a computer or TV screen (for viewing and capturing). Interchangeable lenses provide different magnifications which spark curiosity and the desire to observe more closely.
The first set of lesson booklets, which build basic observations skills and teach basic science concepts, are available on STR’s website www.schooltr.com as a featured product. Soon to follow will be a series of lesson booklets on the subject of plants, followed by even more booklets on other topics.
“The combination of captivating images and inquiry-based, user-friendly materials is powerful. The process allows children to explore, research, ask questions, and build analytical thinking skills—while at the same time being guided into understanding of meaningful concepts in science. Step-by-step instructions for the educator (along with clearly written background information for each lesson), make it easy to get results. The teacher too is well guided and thus doesn’t have to be an expert in the area being covered by the lesson,” says Bill Hoffman, CEO of STR.
These booklets were developed in collaboration with Louisiana State University, the leader and authority in educational applications of the hand-held microscope. They have been classroom tested and refined to meet teachers’ needs. They open up an engaging, hands-on, and inquiry based way to teach science.
For more information, visit www.schooltr.com.
