1.1 Making a temporary slide

Apparatus

• glass slides

• cover slips

• iodine stain/ methylene blue

• onion/ cotton bud

• filter paper

• forceps

• light microscope

Method for onion cells

1. Peel off thin layer of epidermis from concave side with forceps

2. Flatten down onto glass slide

3. Add a few drops of iodine stain

4. Gently place cover slip to avoid bubbles

5. Draw stain over sample with filter paper

6. Examine under magnification

Method for cheek cells

1. Gently swab inside of mouth with cotton bud to collect cells

2. Rub onto glass slide

3. Add a few drops of methylene blue stain

4. Gently place cover slip to avoid bubbles

5. Draw stain over sample with filter paper

6. Examine under magnification

Results for onion cells

Results for cheek cells

Justification

iodine/ methylene blue stain cells to make them easier to see

Error

cell peel is very thin and easily torn, wrinkled or folded

Safety

• pre cut onion so no need for blades

• care using forceps as they are pointy