Microorganisms KS2
Teaching microorganisms in KS2 can be a fascinating way to help children understand the living world around them. Microorganisms are tiny living things that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. Although they are invisible without a microscope, microorganisms can be found almost everywhere on Earth.
In KS2 Science, children learn about different types of microorganisms, how they can be helpful or harmful, and the important roles they play in everyday life.
Teaching microorganisms in KS2?
Save planning time with our ready-to-teach Year 6 microorganisms lesson, complete with lesson plan, teaching slides and a range of practical activities.
What Are Microorganisms? (KS2)
Microorganisms are tiny organisms that are so small they can only be seen using a microscope. They live in water, soil, air and even inside plants, animals and humans.
Some microorganisms are useful and help keep living things healthy, while others can cause illness and disease.
Examples of microorganisms include:
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Viruses
- Algae
- Protozoa
Types of Microorganisms KS2
Bacteria
Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms. Many are helpful and are used to make foods such as yoghurt and cheese. Some bacteria help break down dead plants and animals, returning nutrients to the environment.
Fungi
Fungi include moulds and yeasts. Yeast is a microorganism used in bread making because it produces gas that helps dough rise.
Viruses
Viruses are much smaller than bacteria. Some viruses can make people ill by causing diseases such as chickenpox, flu or the common cold.
Algae
Many types of algae are microscopic. They live in water and produce oxygen through photosynthesis.
Protozoa
Protozoa are single-celled microorganisms that are often found in water or damp environments.
Why Are Microorganisms Important?
Microorganisms play a vital role in the world around us. Without them, many natural processes would not happen.
Helpful microorganisms can:
- Break down dead plants and animals
- Help produce foods such as bread, yoghurt and cheese
- Support healthy digestion in humans and animals
- Recycle nutrients in ecosystems
Some microorganisms can also be harmful because they cause diseases in humans, animals and plants.
Microorganisms Facts KS2
- Microorganisms are also known as microbes.
- They are found almost everywhere on Earth.
- Most microorganisms are too small to see without a microscope.
- Some microorganisms are useful and some are harmful.
- Yeast is a microorganism used to make bread rise.
- Bacteria can help break down waste materials.
- There are trillions of microorganisms living in the human body.
- Many medicines have been developed using microorganisms.
Teaching Microorganisms in KS2
One of the best ways for children to learn about microorganisms is through practical investigations. Activities such as observing mould growth, exploring the effectiveness of handwashing or investigating yeast can help pupils understand that microorganisms are living things even though they cannot usually be seen.
PlanBee's microorganisms lesson includes ready-to-teach slides, differentiated activities and investigations that help children explore microorganisms and their impact on our lives.
👉 Explore our Microorganisms KS2 lesson pack here.
Microorganisms KS2 FAQs
What are microorganisms KS2?
Microorganisms are tiny living things that can only be seen with a microscope. Examples include bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and some viruses.
Are all microorganisms harmful?
No. Many microorganisms are helpful and are used in food production, decomposition and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Where can microorganisms be found?
Microorganisms can be found almost everywhere, including soil, water, air, plants, animals and the human body.
Why do children learn about microorganisms in KS2?
Learning about microorganisms helps children understand living things, food production, health, disease and the role microorganisms play in the natural world.
