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 microbes
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
Science:
- Scientific thinking
- Analysis and evaluation
- Experimental skills and strategies
Biology:
- Cells
- Development of medicines
- Health and disease
PSHE/RSHE:
- Health and prevention
English:
- Reading
- Writing
Art & Design:
- Graphic communication