KS1: Introduction to Microbes
This lesson is designed to introduce students to viruses, bacteria and fungi. The introductory activity allows students to combine their observational and creative skills to make a microbe of their own choice, exploring various microbial types and shapes.
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Learning objectives
- Learn about the different types of microbes (viruses, bacteria and fungi), their shapes and sizes, where they can be found and how they can be both helpful and harmful.
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. Some microbes are useful, and others can be harmful to humans.
Microbes come in many shapes and sizes. The three groups of microbes covered in the resource are viruses, bacteria and fungi.
This lesson plan supports you to introduce to students what microbes are develop an understanding that they can be useful and harmful. This forms the basis of future discussions on hygiene and infection.
Activities
Main activity:- Modelling Microbes
- Yes or No Cards
- Microbe Flashcards
- Fill in the Blanks
Curriculum links
Curriculum Key Elements
- Personal Health and Moral Character
Curriculum Skills
- Communication
- Managing Information
- Thinking
- 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 sheets- Last updated August 2022
- English