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.
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Learning objectives
- Explore the world of microbes, understanding their types, characteristics, and the ways in which they can impact our health and environment.
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
Curriculum Key Elements
- Personal Health and Moral Character
Curriculum Skills
- Communication
- Thinking
- Being Creative
- Problem Solving and Decision Making
- Working with Others
Curriculum Areas of Learning
- Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU)
- The World Around Us (TWAU)
- The Arts
Supporting Materials
Teacher sheetsStudent worksheetsStudent handouts- Last updated August 2022
- English