Using a Foldscope for Scientific Explorations

Dr. Pete ConnTeacher Workshops

Presented by Robert A. Paysen
Tuesday, June 7, 2022 ◉ 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Tuesday, June 8, 2022 ◉ 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm

This workshop will demonstrate the use of a Foldscope, an inexpensive microscope , to look at very small objects in various forms. Specimens for study will range from the biological to inorganic, natural and synthetic.

Wondering what a Foldscope is? See why it’s such a great addition to any classroom.

Workshop topics covered:

1. Introduction to the Foldscope

A. Assembling a Foldscope
B. Using a Foldscope with prepared specimens
C. Comparison of the Foldscope with another inexpensive scope

2. Biological Studies

A. Preparing biological specimens from plants
B. Obtaining specimens from water samples

3. Observations of inorganic salts

A. Crystallization
B. Reactions between salt solutions

4. Comparison of natural and synthetic fibers

A. Observations of various natural and synthetic fibers
B. Tests for identifying fibers using a scope.

Target Audience: Elementary and middle school teachers

Standards Addressed Planning and carrying out investigations; developing and using models GADOE 5th grade curriculum map

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Presenter

Robert A. Paysen earned a B. S. in chemistry at the College of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN, and a Ph. D. In Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Tennessee. After teaching for several years at Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC he joined the faculty of Bethany College in 1983, where he taught chemistry, computer science, forensics, mathematics, and physics and chaired the Physical Science department, until retiring in 2012 as an emeritus professor of chemistry. As a member of the American Physical Society, the American Chemical Society, Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh and the Society of Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh, he has supported science education in the Western PA, Eastern OH, and northern WV region by presenting teacher workshops and planetarium talks to students.