Germs and how to defeat them
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe the different kinds of germs, how they are spread and how to limit their transmission.
Key learning points
- There are different kinds of germs such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.
- Germs can be spread through direct contact, droplets and contaminated surfaces.
- Hand-washing, sanitising and proper hygiene practices can limit the transmission of germs.
Keywords
Bacteria - microorganisms that can be found in various environments, some of which cause diseases while others are beneficial
Virus - a tiny infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism
Fungi - a group of organisms that include yeasts, moulds and mushrooms, some of which can cause infections
Hygiene - practices that help maintain health and prevent the spread of diseases
Common misconception
All bacteria are harmful.
Some bacteria can cause illness, but humans need good bacteria for their gut health to aid in digestion.
Teacher tip
Referencing pupils' prior learning in biology lessons and asking for recall of this information could be a useful introduction to this topic.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Drinking water is important to keep our bodies ...
Q2.Which of these is not one of the five main food groups?
Q3.How can you protect your skin from the sun?
Q4.Getting enough __________ helps your body grow and stay strong.
Q5.Brushing your teeth twice a day can help to prevent cavities. A cavity is ...
Q6.Match the profession to their correct job description.
diagnoses, treats and advises on dental issues
prepares, dispenses and advises on medications
administers medications, monitors health conditions and provides care
diagnoses, treats and helps to prevent illness or injuries
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following are types of germs?
Q2.Bacteria can __________ quickly, which can push out and destroy healthy tissue.
Q3.Which are the correct statements?
Q4.Which of these is not a method of germ and bacteria transmission?
Q5.Match the clue to the preventative action.
wash hands
use insect repellent
cover your mouth
open windows regularly
Q6.Good is important to stay safe and healthy and to prevent the spread of germs.
To help you plan your 7 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: Germs and how to defeat them, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: Germs and how to defeat them, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 RSHE (PSHE) lessons from the Staying safe and healthy: How do I maintain physical health? unit, dive into the full secondary RSHE (PSHE) curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.