Essential Question: How can we view things in our world in a different way?

Overview: This activity will enable students to explore their world more closely using an innovative technology, the Smartphone Microscope.The microscope employs a unique design and construction and was invented at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Students will review the historical context of microscopes and their function, utilize the STEM/STEAM integration of the device which encourages the collection of data (images) from objects that are culturally-relevant to them, and be introduced to 3D-printing, advanced manufacturing, and new nuclear technologies.