A complete, ready-to-teach lesson comparing electron and light microscopes, followed by the full required practical for preparing and viewing an onion cell slide. Builds directly on Lesson 3 (microscope parts and magnification), and completes the B1 Cell Biology and Microscopes sequence. Built for mixed-ability science classrooms, with parallel routes for Foundation GCSE, Entry Level Science, and SEND pupils. No extra prep needed for a mixed class.
What’s included:

Retrieval starter recapping microscope parts from Lesson 3
Electron vs light microscope comparison, with mini-whiteboard AfL checks
Fully sequenced required practical: preparing an onion slide and viewing it under the microscope
Visual clues and clear RISK ALERT safety notes built into every practical step, so pupils can self-check their own technique
Worksheet activities: comparison table fill-in, step-ordering task (jumbled practical steps), and multiple-choice exam-style questions with answers

✔ Dual-coded slides (image + text pairing throughout)
✔ Dyslexia-friendly Lexend/Poppins typography
✔ Embedded mini-whiteboard AfL checkpoints
✔ Matching workbook using identical wording to the slides
✔ Fully worked answers included on every activity
✔ Practical safety built into the slides, not just the workbook
Part of my full B1 unit. See my shop for the complete sequence. (Lesson 1: Animal Cells is free. Check my shop!)