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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.
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Unit at a glance (PDF)
Unit outcomes (PDF)
Unit overview (PDF) (DOC)
Equipment lists (PDF)
Assessment resources
Resource sheets
Factual and narrative texts
Useful websites
Assessment resources
In Primary Connections units, assessment is an ongoing and embedded process which enhances learning.
Recording and reporting tools included are:
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Assessment checklists (PDF) (DOC)
Assessment rubrics (PDF) (DOC)
Science journal/work sample tags (PDF) (DOC)
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These tools provide only a snapshot of the variety of assessment and reporting methods that can be used in conjunction with Primary Connections.
Resource sheets
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Observation record: Exploring bread (PDF) (RTF)
Anton van Leeuwenhoek (Layu–un–hook): Microscope maker (PDF) (RTF)
What happens when yeast is mixed with sugar and water? (PDF) (RTF)
What's the best temperature for yeast to be active? (PDF) (RTF)
Moulds (PDF) (RTF)
Mould growth investigation planner (PDF) (RTF)
Penicillin—the miracle mould (PDF)
Role badges (PDF) (RTF) |
Factual and narrative texts and useful websites
Factual and narrative 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
Useful websites
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.
Sanitarium
Nutritional articles and 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.
Florey home page
Maker of the miracle mould
Information about Dr Howard Florey and penicillin.
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