Studying neurons using microscopes
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) Alignment
LS1-2 From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
Discussion Questions
1. What kinds of small parts is your brain made up of?
2. What kind of tools or techniques might you need to see those small parts?
3. What are the main jobs of neurons?
Video 1
Vocabulary
1. Slides - a thin, flat piece of glass that is used to hold samples that are being viewed using a microscope
2. Staining - adding color to an object or sample using dyes or chemicals to make it easier to view
3. Microscope - a laboratory tool that is used to see objects that are too small to be seen with the naked eye
4. Particles - a very small piece, fragment, or amount of a material
5. Cells - the smallest unit of life, and the basic structure of an organism
6. Neurons - nerve cells; the basic units of the nervous system
7. Specialized - having a particular purpose or function
Video 2
Review
1. Scientists developed special techniques to study the cells of brains including slicing brains very thin and staining them with colors to make them easier to see.
2. Nerve cells are called neurons.
3. Neurons have very specialized functions in the body.
