Welcome to Proscope
This is a great tool to allow students to explore science in the world around them. Even the most simple things become exciting when you can see them at a bug’s eye view.
Installing ProScope Software
1. Insert ProScope disk.
Double click on the disk icon> OS X folder> Scalar USB Microscope (this is the package icon)
2. Enter your name and password to begin installation
3. The installer will begin, follow it through, selecting continue, selecting the hard drive to download the application, and Upgrade.
Create An Image Folder
When the download is complete you will need to create a folder on the desktop for your images. This can be titled ProScope Images.
This will set a path for your images and allow you to find them easily.
Getting Started
Now that you have your application, let’s go over using the Proscope.
Setting the Path: to find your photos you will need to set a path to your new “proscope images” folder.
Once you open the program the folder icon in the lower left hand corner is where you should go. It will open a browse view: select desktop>”proscope images”. Select this folder and you will be all set!
Snap Shot: This feature allows you to take individual images by pressing the button on the side of the camera.
Movie Shot: Streams video of subject. (be aware these files can become large)
Interval Shot: Takes a number of shots in sequence.
Breaking it Down: How the Camera Works
Lens: Twist the end of the microscope to adjust the level of magnification. (Lenses can be removed and changed)
Capture Button: Press to take pictures, begin/stop video, and trigger interval shots.
Tripod Base: For still photos, such as of plants or to mount the camera in a classroom, you may attach a tripod base to the ProScope.
For Additional Support: Stop by the ProScope Website.
Class Activities:
“Guess the Object” Slide Show
Grade Level: K-5
Objective: Have students create a basic slide show in Keynote or Power Point. Let them drag in one image on every other slide. On the next slide, students tell what the image really was. This is a great activity for calming students and getting their attention.
Bug Book
Grade Level: 2-5
Objective: Have students write a short story from the perspective of a Bug. Use proscope images and descriptive language to tell what the world looks like through the eyes of a bug.
Books: Two Bad Ants, Diary of a Worm
ProScope Digital Microscope
Tips:
1. Make a folder on the desktop to store your photos.
2. Moving objects are hard to focus on and capture clear images.
3. Students will be amazed, so set aside time to let students explore everyday objects around the room.
4. Great tool to encourage hand washing!
