Science KS 2 Unit 6B Micro-organisms (short unit)

Through this unit children learn that there are many very small organisms called micro-organisms which feed, grow and reproduce and which may be harmful or beneficial. Experimental and investigative work focuses on:

• making observations.
• drawing conclusions.
• suggesting explanations for conclusions, using scientific knowledge and understanding.

Work in this unit also offers children the opportunity to use scientific ideas to explain some causes of illness and decay, to relate micro-organisms to food production and to relate science to their personal health.

This unit takes approximately 6 hours.

OTHER RESOURCES

• secondary sources providing information about micro-organisms eg video, CD-ROM showing decay within a compost heap
• live yeast, dough
• sealed bag of grass cuttings
• pictures, packaging of foods the production of which involves micro-organisms
• mouldy food eg fruit, bread