There is a world we can’t see.  This world is all around us.  There are thousands of different organisms.  We can’t live without them.  They make us healthy.  They help us digest our food.  They make us sick.  This is the world of the microorganism.  Let’s explore their world.

The Unseen World

Where better to learn about microorganisms than during a visit to the zoo.  Your first assignment will take you to the Microbe Zoo.  Get your worksheet and answer the questions as you visit the Zoo.

Kingdom Protista

Most of the organisms you saw at the Zoo were bacteria.  It’s time to move on and examine Kingdom Protista.  Here are the single-celled organisms called Protozoans.  To complete this worksheet, you need to visit The Smallest Page on the Internet.  Click the icon below to get to the website.

All the information you will need to complete your worksheet can be found on this website.  You will have to spend a little time reading and searching for answers, but you’ll learn a lot about Protozoans as you complete your worksheet.

The Protist Internet Lab Assignment, Part Deux

I hoped you noticed that there was a second part to this assignment.  You have two options.  You can complete the Index of Organisms worksheet. To do this, you’ll need to go to one of the websites below, select an organism, and complete the worksheet.  If you can’t find all the answers at one site, go to the others.  You’ll eventually be able to get all the information you need.

Pond Life ID Kit
Fresh Water Ecosystems
Protist Park
Invertebrates – Life Without a Backbone
Invertebrates Link Page

If you don’t want to do the Index of Organisms, you can let your poetic side show.  Select a microorganism, get a separate sheet of paper, and write an ode to it. What is an ode?  Great question!  An ode is a serious poem written to honor something or someone.  To see an example, look at the Ode to an Amoeba to get an idea how to write yours. Click below to get to the website.

People Like Me Because I’m a Fun Guy (Fungi, get it?)

Fungi are all around us.  Spend some time learning about fungi.  Complete your worksheet as you explore the Fun Facts About Fungi website. Click blow to the to the site.

I’m Hungry!

If it weren’t for microorganisms, we wouldn’t have many food items we like to eat.  You are now challenged to plan a meal made up of only food made with the help of microorganisms.  As you research your meal, complete your menu.  Click below if you don't have a copy of your menu.

Here are some websites that will help you find out about foods made with microorganisms.

Good Bacteria in Food
Lactic Acid Bacteria - Their Uses in Food
Pickle Basics
Introduction to Cheese Making
Fungi in Manufacturing Food
Fungi in Food - More Than Just Mushrooms!
Fungi in Food Processing
Human Uses of Fungi
Uses of Algae
Algae - the Healthy Ingredient

Who Helped Us Learn About Problems With Microorganisms?

Many people helped us learn about problems we have frommicroorganisms.  Your assignment is to make a History Of Microorganisms Timeline.  Use your History Of Microorganisms Notes to help you as you make the timeline. If you don't have a copy , click one of the links above.

The End

Congratulations! You're finished with this WebQuest. Great work!