Unit 11
Assignment B: Explore how the process of cell division in eukaryotic cells contributes to genetic
variation.
1
, Scenario
I am a trainee lab technician supporting the Histology Department in a medical laboratory. As part of my
induction, I have been asked to demonstrate how to set up a microscope, prepare microscope slides to
observe and draw the stages of mitosis and meiosis.
Preparing an anther squash
Aim
Prepare temporary microscope slides using plant anther to observe meiosis
Health and safety
Hydrochloric acid is corrosive and an irritant to the eyes and skin. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
must be worn throughout the duration of the practical to reduce the risk of serious injury
Hazard Risk Ways to minimise
Chemicals – HCl, Toluidine blue Corrosive, irritant and PPE must be worn; chemicals
flammable. should not be carelessly
handled.
Bunsen burner Open flame. Hair should be tied back, and
loose articles of clothing must
be tucked in.
Glassware Shattered glass/sharp edges. Glassware should be kept on lab
bench and away from the edge.
Equipment
- Light microscope - Forceps
- Pipette - Beaker
- Bunsen burner - Plant material as a source of anthers
- Mounted needle - Filter paper
Method
1) The anther was vertically cut where the bud was located, and the white petals were removed
from the base to be discarded.
2) 0.1m hydrochloric acid was placed onto the anther tissue, this was then warmed under a
Bunsen burner – excess liquid was removed with filter paper.
3) The anther tissue was placed into the centre of a clean slide and distilled water was added.
4) Coverslip was then lowered slowly onto the tissue, there was no air bubbles present.
5) This was placed on a flat surface so that it could be firmly pressed down.
6) The slide was then placed under the microscope and was searched carefully and methodically to
find cells that were undergoing cell division.
7) These cells were drawn (difference stages) and were labelled.
2
Assignment B: Explore how the process of cell division in eukaryotic cells contributes to genetic
variation.
1
, Scenario
I am a trainee lab technician supporting the Histology Department in a medical laboratory. As part of my
induction, I have been asked to demonstrate how to set up a microscope, prepare microscope slides to
observe and draw the stages of mitosis and meiosis.
Preparing an anther squash
Aim
Prepare temporary microscope slides using plant anther to observe meiosis
Health and safety
Hydrochloric acid is corrosive and an irritant to the eyes and skin. PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
must be worn throughout the duration of the practical to reduce the risk of serious injury
Hazard Risk Ways to minimise
Chemicals – HCl, Toluidine blue Corrosive, irritant and PPE must be worn; chemicals
flammable. should not be carelessly
handled.
Bunsen burner Open flame. Hair should be tied back, and
loose articles of clothing must
be tucked in.
Glassware Shattered glass/sharp edges. Glassware should be kept on lab
bench and away from the edge.
Equipment
- Light microscope - Forceps
- Pipette - Beaker
- Bunsen burner - Plant material as a source of anthers
- Mounted needle - Filter paper
Method
1) The anther was vertically cut where the bud was located, and the white petals were removed
from the base to be discarded.
2) 0.1m hydrochloric acid was placed onto the anther tissue, this was then warmed under a
Bunsen burner – excess liquid was removed with filter paper.
3) The anther tissue was placed into the centre of a clean slide and distilled water was added.
4) Coverslip was then lowered slowly onto the tissue, there was no air bubbles present.
5) This was placed on a flat surface so that it could be firmly pressed down.
6) The slide was then placed under the microscope and was searched carefully and methodically to
find cells that were undergoing cell division.
7) These cells were drawn (difference stages) and were labelled.
2
