Microscope I: Nature Journal Write Up

In lab this week, we learned how to use dissecting microscopes.   As part of that activity, you each did a Nature Journal entry. 

Assignment: Submit at the end of lab. 

1. In lab complete your Nature Journal entry that uses  (10 pts)

• • Images, Words and Numbers 
  • Includes I notice, I wonder and It reminds me of. 

2. In addition, you will need to write a 250 word reflection about the experience. (5 points)

• • Write this in your Nature Journal on a separate page.
  • Look back at your object and consider what you've learned about your object through careful observation, that you may not have noticed or considered otherwise.
  • Reflect on what it felt like to take time to focus all of your attention on a small object you may have seen dozens or hundreds of times.  
  • How do you think this intentional curiosity might affect your memory of an object or experience?
  • Reflect on the connections you've made and the questions you've asked.
  • Did this practice stimulate curiosity in a way that more casual observations do not ?

I Notice

Examine what you are looking at under the microscope. Look at structure, color, interactions.  Change your perspective:  Change the  magnification, the reflection of the mirror, and see what else you can observe.  If you find yourself running out of observations, challenge yourself to discover something new, or just say "I notice..." until an idea pops out.  

In the margin of your drawing, write down the words "I notice," and list some of your observations.

I Wonder

After observing your object, start to come up with questions about it.   Your questions might be connected to an observation you made earlier, or they could be about any aspect of what you're observing.  There is no need to worry about answering the questions yet. A good scientist should be able to ask many more questions than they can answer. Just get them all out there. 

In the margin of your drawing, write down "I wonder" and list your question(s).

It Reminds Me Of

Ask yourself what your observations remind you of. Try to come up with as many connections as you can. Go into your own network of memories and see how this new set of observations fits in. Is this like something you studied before, observed in another context, or saw on a nature special? Have you seen this plant before or seen similar plants?  Connecting with existing memories can also help you develop more interesting and deeper questions. 

In the margin of your drawing, write down "It reminds me of" and write down your thoughts.