CURRICULUM RESOURCES
Year 6 | Biological sciences | Marvellous micro-organisms | NEW – fully aligned to the Australian Curriculum
Micro-organisms affect everyone. Some are helpful, while others are harmful. Pathogenic micro-organisms can cause diseases like sore throats, influenza, tuberculosis and AIDS. Decomposer micro-organisms decay rotting plant and animal matter, returning important nutrients back into the soil. Food spoilage micro-organisms such as mould ruin stored food. Other bacteria and yeasts are vital to the production of food and drinks like yoghurt and bread, and beer and wine.
The Marvellous micro-organisms unit is an ideal way to link science with literacy in the classroom. It provides opportunities for students to develop an understanding of the role of micro-organisms in food and medicine. Students investigate the conditions micro-organisms need to grow, learn about yeast and the bread-making process, and research the development of penicillin.
Unit at a glance (PDF)
Equipment lists (PDF)
Alignment with the Australian Curriculum: Science (PDF)
Alignment with the Australian Curriculum: English and Maths (PDF)
Indigenous curriculum links (PDF)
Indigenous Perspectives framework (PDF)
Indigenous Perspectives Teaching and learning guide
Factual texts
Useful websites
Factual texts:
Everyday food bread
Bently, Joyce (Chrysalis Children’s Books, 2005, 32pp)
ISBN: 1844581802
From farm to you, bread
Jones, Carol (Macmillan Library, 2002, 32pp)
ISBN: 0732967627
Life on a wheat farm (Outback Australia series)
Michael and Jane Pelusey (Macmillan Education Australia Pty Ltd, 2003, 32pp)
ISBN: 0732979749
Food standards
Information provided by an independent statutory agency that sets food standards for Australia and New Zealand.
Woolworths – food labels
Some information about food labels, and links for further information.
Antony van Leeuwenhoek (1632-1723)
Detailed life history of the microscope maker.
Dakota Bakers Yeast
Breadworld
Information about the history of yeast and bread.
Nobel Prize news
Information about the Nobel Prize winners and educational games as part of an educational outreach program.
Australian Nobel Prize winners
Information about Australians that have won the Nobel Prize.
Maker of the miracle mould
Information about Dr Howard Florey and penicillin.