KS4: Introduction to Microbes
Students are introduced to the exciting world of microbes. In this lesson they will learn about bacteria, viruses and fungi, their different shapes and the fact that they are found everywhere.
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Learning objectives
All students will:
- Understand that useful bacteria are found in our body
- Understand that microbes come in different sizes
- Understand the key differences between the three main types of microbe
Most students will:
- Understand using a variety of concepts and models to develop scientific explanations
Background Information
Micro-organisms are living organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye; they are microscopic. Micro-organisms are found almost everywhere on Earth and can be both useful and harmful to humans. 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.
In this lesson, students will explore the characteristics of different microbes and become familiar with some of the most common and well known microbes through a game.
Activities
Main activity:- Microbe Mayhem Card Game
- Peer Education
- Microbe Poster
- History of Microbes Timeline
Curriculum links
Curriculum Skills
- Communication
- Problem Solving
- Working with Others
Areas of Learning
Learning for Life and Work (Personal Development statutory content)
- Develop an understanding of how to maximise and sustain their own health and well-being.
- Recognise, assess and manage risk in a range of real-life contexts.
Science and Technology, relevant CCEA qualifications include:
- GCSE Biology
- GCSE Science Double Award
- GSCE Science Single Award