Before you begin to explore the powers of magnification and the new worlds these powers reveal, it is important to take the time to set up your microscope lab. Having everything you need to do your work in one place means that you'll spend less time looking for supplies and more time exploring. Set up your microscope lab in a quiet corner of a room. You'll need a sturdy table and lots of light. Listed below are some items you may want to stock your lab with.
Scientists use the word 'sample' to describe an object that is being observed under a microscope.
A sample can be anything from an insect to a drop of pond water or a piece of fabric. A sample can be the whole object or just part of the object. For example, both an entire leaf and just the stem are considered samples. When you collect samples from outdoors, remember to choose carefully. Nature has a delicate balance, and can be easily damaged.