This introductory course to Microbiology will begin with a general survey of the six kingdoms of life and their microscopic representatives. After examining the differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, students will learn the structures unique to the larger animal, plant and fungus cells.  The characteristics of organisms within the protist kingdom will be covered including the protozoa, malaria parasite, and the brain-eating amoeba.  Studying the fungi offers opportunities for introductory microbiological experiments.  Students will grow simple yeast cultures as they study the unicellular yeast and even knead some dough!  Simple penicillin cultures can be grown on strawberries when the molds and their ability to produce antibiotics are covered and students will appreciate the significance of the discovery of Penicillin, humans first true weapon against the bacteria. After examining mushrooms, mycelium, and fairy rings, the scale of the organisms studied decreases to the true microscopic world: the bacteria and Archaebacteria. The two prokaryotes will be compared and new discoveries about the Archaebacteria and their ability to grow in extreme environments will be presented.  Students will be shown the steps of gram staining and will understand the important differences between the cell walls of the gram positive and gram negative bacteria.  Sample bacterial species will be covered such as gram-negative E. coli and gram-positive Clostridium species and their ability to form endospores. In addition, students will learn about the unique properties of viruses, including their life cycles and why they are so difficult to combat medically. The history of vaccinations will be presented as will the viral diseases of smallpox, polio, and rabies. Special attention will be given to the flu, cold, and corona viruses. Along the way, student will be exposed to the scientific method, microbiological techniques, and inquiry-based science. The live classes will include interesting demonstrations.

PLEASE NOTE: Students are expected to be on-screen for the majority of each class.

Week 1  Introduction to Microbiology, Microscopes, Cell Theory
Week 2  Eukaryotes vs Prokaryotes, Membranes, Swan Neck Flask Exp, 
Week 3  Cell Walls, Autotrophs Heterotrophs, Protists
Week 4  Protozoa, Amoebas, Algal Blooms, 
Week 5  Protist Diseases, Malaria, Diatoms
Week 6  Fungi, Yeast, Cultures
Week 7  Molds, Mycelium and Hyphae, Cheeses
Week 8  Vinegar Mushrooms, Mycorrhiza
Week 9  Antibiotics, Penicillin, Zones of Inhibition
Week 10  Bacteria, Colony Morphology, Nutrient Agar
Week 11  Prokaryotes and Archaebacteria, Inoculating Loops
Week 11  Gram staining, Peptidoglycan, Lactic acid Bacteria
Week 12  Gram Positive, Endospores, Clostridium
Week 13  Viruses, Parasitic Cycle Vaccinations, Smallpox, Polio
Week 14  Rabies, Influenza, Rhino, and Corona Viruses

*Please note there will be no classes the week of Mar 6 through Mar 10.

Materials/Supplies: Students will need a notebook for notes and assignments. Students will need to purchase a set of nutrient agar plates and occasionally they may need to purchase certain easily-obtainable materials. Students will also need to purchase a printable microbiology workbook packet from www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Dr-Daves-Science. A microscope is a true bonus for this course but is not required. 

Prerequisites: None