Activity

Using shadows to build 3D images

In this activity, students model how scientists interpret microscope data by using shadows of an object from different angles to build up a 3D image.

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • describe how they used shadow outlines of an object viewed from different angles to build up a 3D image

  • explain how this process relates to actual data interpretation when using microscopes and other imaging techniques

  • describe how 2D representations of 3D objects can be misleading.

Interpreting microscope data

Allan Mitchell discusses some things to consider when interpreting what you can see using the microscope (particularly the electron microscope). Allan points out that it’s important to know your sample well, so that you understand what you’re viewing. It’s also important to be as objective as possible and avoid any bias in which areas of the sample you concentrate on.

Rights: University of Waikato. All Rights Reserved.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

  • introduction/background notes

  • what you need

  • what to do

  • discussion questions

  • extension ideas.

Published: 29 February 2012