The Microbe Zoo

I chose to design an activity for a 6th grade science classroom, using The Microbe Zoo. I would divide the class into 5 groups and assign each a specific area of The Microbe Zoo: DirtLand, Animal Pavilion, Snack Bar, Space Adventure, and Water World. Then I would ask each group to prepare a presentation on their specific area, which includes the homes, food requirements, and another interesting fact about the microorganisms in their assigned area. They also need to describe at least one specific microorganism. They should make a poster that includes all of the above information and pictures, preferrably hand-drawn. After giving the children many days to work on their project, they will each present their specific area of The Microbe Zoo in front of the class.

Content:
6th grade science
Standard 5
Students will understand that microorganisms range from simple to complex, are found almost everywhere, and are both helpful and harmful.
Objective 1
Observe and summarize information about microorganisms.
c. Research and report on a microorganism's requirements (i.e., food, water, air, waste disposal, temperature of environment, reproduction).

Pedagogy:
The students will be observing and classifying the different types of microorganisms. This objective requires that the students research and report on a microoorganism's requirements. This of course requires observing the microorganisms on the website to determine the microorganism's requirements. Also, by classifying the different types of microorgamisms, the students can better understand the importance and the role of each type of microorganism.

Technology:
I will be using The Microbe Zoo website, a fun, interactive, learning website just for kids. The kids will be able to explore hands-on the different types of microorganisms in the world. The websites group the microorganisms creatively, and they help the students connect and apply the information into their own lives.