KS2: Introduction to Microbes
Students learn about the different types of microbes – bacteria, viruses and fungi. They learn that microbes have different shapes and that they are found everywhere.
Scroll down to find out more and to download the resources.
Learning objectives
All students will:
- Understand that bacteria, viruses and fungi are three main types of microbes
- Understand that microbes are found everywhere
Most students will:
- Understand that microbes come in different shapes and sizes and are too small to be seen by the naked eye
- Understand that microbes can be beneficial, harmful or both
Background Information
Micro-organisms, more commonly known as ‘germs’, ‘bugs’ or ‘microbes’, are tiny living things too small to be seen with the naked eye. They are found almost everywhere on Earth. It is important to clarify that microbes are not innately ‘useful’ or ‘harmful’.
Although extremely small, microbes come in many different shapes and sizes. The three groups of microbes covered in this resource are viruses, bacteria and fungi.
This lesson plan will encourage students to consider the different types of microbes, become familiar with some of the most well known microbes, and design their own.
Activities
Main activity:- Design a Bug
- What are Microbes? worksheet
- What Microbe am I? worksheet
Curriculum links
PHSE/RHSE:
- Health and prevention
Science:
- Working scientifically
- Living things and their habitats
English:
- Reading and comprehension
Art & Design:
- Painting
- Recording observations