Introduction; What Is A Scope-On-A-Rope - scope LSU VL-7EX II User Manual

This guide is intended to answer your questions about how to use your scope: the different parts
and their functions, how to change lenses, how to take images, care and maintenance, etc. If you
need further assistance, please visit www.ScopeCurriculum.com, where you will find directions on
how to get further support, as well as instructional videos. You can also visit the LSU Scope-On-
A-Rope Program site: www.scopeonarope.lsu.edu.

What is a Scope-On-A-Rope?

The Scope-On-A-Rope, abbreviated SOAR, is a hand-held microscope that shows focused,
magnified images on a television, computer, or projector screen. First manufactured for medical
applications, it was later developed for educational use at Louisiana State University. The SOAR
has interchangeable lenses for viewing objects at different magnifications. Simply touching a
sample with the lens tip produces an image that is well lighted and in focus. This is especially
appealing to elementary students, who typically struggle with traditional microscopes.
Here are some of the many reasons why teachers and students can benefit from using a SOAR in
the classroom:
1. It is easy to use, compact, and durable.
2. It serves many functions–operating as a regular video camera, document camera 1 ,
microscope, and presentation aid.
3. The entire class can see an object at once.
4. Hands-on exploration and cross-curricular applications are endless!
5. All kinds of samples can be examined with it (no slide preparation necessary).
6. Still images and movies can be saved for discussion and analysis.
7. Connections to state and national education standards are easy.
8. It can be used in special needs classrooms.
9. It produces high-quality images that inspire and motivate students of all ages and ability levels
with their "wow" factor!
10. Its use engages students and helps them to become better thinkers, inquirers, and problem
solvers.
1
A document camera (also called docucam, visual presenter, digital overhead and digital visualizer) is
basically a high-tech overhead projector. It is a specialized camera that can be used to take images of a
document (or object) and project them onto a computer screen, TV screen, or projector screen. A
document camera is similar to a web cam, but the camera is normally mounted on a movable "arm" that can
be moved around to view the particular object or part of the document desired.

Introduction

Handheld Microscope Users Guide
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