Learn about the Microbe World!

It has been over a year and our lives are still being affected by the Coronavirus. Microbes are EVERYWHERE but you can’t see them! It is estimated that there are one trillion microbes in our bodies, more than stars in the entire Milky Way Galaxy (from: amnh.org).  If you placed all the microbes on the earth on one side of a scale and all the plants and animals on the other side of the scale, MICROBES would weigh more! Many microbes are beneficial but others are very harmful. Learn about "wee little beasties" or microbes with my resource on the Microbe World at this link: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/MICROBES-A-Webquest-5584636?st=1472068e1123f0aa87bc5d9e5dfe0790 Learn about scientists, such as Antonie van Leeuwenhoek  Louis Pasteur, Edward Jenner and Alexander Fleming who helped made the world much safer from harmful microbes. 

 

Did you know?

1. It is estimated that there are 1458 bacteria that live in your BELLY BUTTON! (source:  https://easyscienceforkids.com/microorganism-video-for-kids/. 2012
2. If you stand on a scale, it is estimated that 4 pounds of your weight are microbes that live in your body! (source: https://easyscienceforkids.com/microorganism-video-for-kids/
3. In 2007, biologists revived an 8 million year old bacterium recovered  from Antarctic ice.(Source https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn12433-eight-million-year-old-bug-is-alive-and-growing/#.UnzS6OIblsw
4. It is estimated that 95% of microbes are harmless! (source: https://www.kidsdiscover.com/shop/issues/microbes-for-kids/
5. Scientists say it is better to use a paper towel to dry your hands than a hand dryer. More microbes live in the warm environment so you are actually adding bacteria to your hands with a  warm hand dryer. http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2011/02/15/3139197.htm#.UcPB-66oDMA
6. More bacteria live in your mouth than the entire population (7.8.billion people as of May/2020) of the world! https://easyscienceforkids.com/microorganism-video-for-kids/
7. Bacteria have been around LONGER than even dinosaurs! https://facts.net/science/biology/bacteria-facts
8. Some bacteria actually EAT oil and can be used to clean up oil spills.

    9. Some viruses eat bacteria. Called bacteriophages(bacteria eaters), scientists hope that such viruses may be helpful in fighting disease.

*The  resource also mentions the coronavirus, has a Did You Know? section, comprehension questions and a Teacher Page with extension activities and links. There are 12 webquestions in the resource. Included is also a student version.