A micro-organism is a very tiny living thing.

Bacteria are a type of micro-organism that can be found in all natural environments.

Fungi are a type of micro-organism that feed on organic matter.

Grouping micro-organisms

Science

In this Why we group and classify living things unit, pupils learn about why we classify plants and animals based on specific characteristics. In the Species and classification unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn more about the identification and classification of organisms, including at the cellular level.

In the Living things and the environment unit, pupils learnt to recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways. In this Why we group and classify living things unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics

This unit covers the classification of living things, including micro-organisms, plants, and animals, based on observable characteristics. It explores reasons for classification and focuses on planning scientific enquiries, recording data, presenting findings, and evaluating scientific evidence.

Why we group and classify living things

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Which of these is not a type of micro-organism?

to help understand how they could be helpful or harmful

Why do scientists classify micro-organisms?

micro-organisms that live almost everywhere on Earth

micro-organisms that can only survive inside a living thing

micro-organisms that feed on organic material

Match the type of micro-organism to its description.

Viruses are used in the production of many foods.

Viruses can only survive inside living things.

All scientists agree that viruses are living things.

Viruses can be found almost everywhere on Earth.

Which of these statements about viruses is correct?

Based on its structure, which type of micro-organism is shown below?

Fermentation is a process carried out by bacteria and {{}} that we can use to make foods such as cheese, yogurt and bread.

What does it mean if something is harmful to us?

Which of these groups are not living things?

by looking at them under a magnifying glass

Scientists classify living things by comparing their observable characteristics. How can they see the observable characteristics of micro-organisms?

they compare similarities and differences in their observable characteristics

they compare similarities and differences in their habitats

they carry out research to find the name of the living thing

How do scientists classify living things into groups?

Micro-organisms are only found in unclean places.

Some types of micro-organism have arms and legs.

Which of these statements about micro-organisms is true?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz