Micro-organisms living on food: review (non-statutory)
I can observe and describe what happens when food is left to decompose over time.
Micro-organisms living on food: review (non-statutory)
I can observe and describe what happens when food is left to decompose over time.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Mould is a type of fungus and can be grouped with other fungi including yeast, mushrooms, lichens, and truffles.
- Mould can be observed and measured growing on food over time, following strict safety rules.
- Scientists present data in a variety of ways to help them form conclusions.
- Mould growth can be slowed or prevented in different ways, such as dehydration, refrigeration and adding preservatives.
Keywords
Mould - Mould is a type of fungi which grows and forms a fuzzy coating on organic matter.
Micro-organism - A micro-organism is a very tiny living thing.
Fungi - Fungi are a type of micro-organism that feed on organic matter.
Conclusion - In a conclusion, scientists explain what the results show or mean.
Data - Data is information collected during an investigation. It may be numbers, symbols, pictures or text.
Common misconception
Pupils may not consider mould to be a living thing because it does not move in the ways we are familiar with animals moving.
Remind pupils that all living things grow, reproduce and move, and that mould can do all of these things. It is a type of fungus. Which is a living thing that is part of the micro-organisms group.
Equipment
Mouldy food set up as part of lesson 6 in this unit (optional, but preferred).
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
