In this hands-on experiment, students investigate the presence or absence of microbes on common surfaces. Students predict which surfaces are likely to have many or few microbes then swab those surfaces to grow the microbes on general purpose media. After incubation, students will observe their results and evaluate their original hypotheses. This activity requires two visits.
Type of Material:
Assignment, lab activity.
Recommended Uses:
Hands-on lab activity. Individual and/or team.
Technical Requirements:
Access to Google docs.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Students will predict which surfaces are likely to contain more microbes and which are likely to contain fewer microbes
Students will demonstrate laboratory safety skills by correctly wearing PPE (personal protective equipment)
Students will compare microbial growth from different surfaces to identify components required for microbial growth or components that inhibit microbial growth
Target Student Population:
Kindergarten through 5th grade, modifiable for middle and high school.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
None.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The activity is basic (for younger students) and has clear specific information on the protocol
The activity is appropriate for younger students working under the direction of adults
The writing is good and age appropriate (see comment in concerns)
Concerns:
Collecting microbe samples from the environment can be interpreted as BSL-2, which may be a concern for some schools
Examples of where to collect microbes could be given, including questions teachers could use when their students predict microbe levels (type of surface, e.g., metal, plastic, fabric; frequently vs. seldom touched areas, etc.)
APA and similar style guides favor capitalizing "Petri"
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
A set of slides is provided for teachers to introduce the activity
A student handout is provided with instructions, great questions and a framework for assessment of results
A reasonable plan for teachers is laid out
Learning objectives are provided
Effective questions and methods for assessment of results are provided
The activity is hands-on approach and incorporates prediction, observation, and analysis to effectively promote conceptual understanding
The activity encourages critical thinking and connects scientific concepts to real-world applications, making it meaningful and memorable for students
Concerns:
None
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The activity is provided as an accessible Google Doc
Clear instructions are provided for students
No accessibility issues appear to exist
Concerns:
None
Creative Commons:
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