The Variety and Roles of Microbes

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In this activity, learners use sets of cards to assign microorganisms to different groups. They will learn that microbes can be members of several different major groups: bacteria, fungi, protists or viruses. In addition, learners will investigate the roles of microorganisms in the natural world and how they are used by humans for food protection and other processes. This lesson guide includes background information, extensions, cards and answer key.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • 12 sheets of cardstock (to prepare cards)
  • 6 resealable plastic bags
  • Set of 4 Microbe Groups cards and 20 Microbe Examples cards
  • Group concept map (ongoing, if available)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Plants
      • Animals
      • Viruses and Bacteria
      • Protists and Fungi
      • Classification
    • Ecology
    • Human Body
      • Health and Nutrition
      • Immune System
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Formulating Explanations

Informal Categories

  • Animals
  • Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

Includes assesments for student learning:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Moreno, Nancy P. ; Tharp, Barbara Z. ; Erdmann, Deanne B. ; Clayton, Sonia Rahmati ; Denk, James P.

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, Baylor College of Medicine, 2008

Funding Source:

  • Science Education Partnership Award, 5R25 RR018605