Fuzzy Mud & Microbiology

In 'Fuzzy Mud,' the kids find an abandoned science experiment that initially causes a rash and blindness.  While this helps a group of students learn to get along, the mud ultimately results in quarantines and lockdowns, leading to a change around the world...

Interested in more books about outbreaks and quarantines?  Check out the Fever 1793 unit study.

The study of microbiology looks at living organisms that are too small to be visible with the naked eye. These 'microbes' include bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi, prions, protozoa and algae. Micro-organisms and their activities are vitally important to virtually all processes on Earth.

Though they are teeny and rarely considered, microbes are found everywhere in, on, and around us! They are very important because they play a key role in nutrient cycling, biodegradation/biodeterioration, climate change, food spoilage, the cause and control of disease, and biotechnology.

Microbiologists are scientists who study microbes. Two important discoveries from this field include the smallpox vaccine and the discovery of penicillin. Microbes can be used to make life-saving drugs, manufacture biofuels, clean up pollution, and produce food and drink.

Did you know that we couldn’t live without microbes, but they could live without us? In nature, decomposers break down dead plants and animals and their waste products into simpler substances, called nutrients. These nutrients are returned to the environment so that other living things, including microbes, can use them!

Our spine read for this unit is Fuzzy Mud (Louis Sachar)

Snag the full unit in the Literature-Based Science Bundle!

Includes nine unit studies covering a variety of science topics presented in literature selections.

• Each unit has introductory text, which will give the student basic background information about the topic at hand.
• There are photographs and illustrations, and we have also included primary documents when available.
• After this text, there are featured videos, which augment the background information and help make the topic more accessible for more visual students.
• You will also find a short list of reading books, including a featured novel that the unit builds upon.
• There are vocabulary words, places, and people to identify.
• Reading comprehension, critical thinking questions, and writing assignments are included.
• We add fun with hands-on activities and extra videos to watch that will bring the era to life.

Our family has used unit studies as curriculum for many years, and we hope that your family will enjoy these, too!

 

Product sample: Misty of Chincoteague & Horses

Units include:

• Misty of Chincoteague & Horses
• Hugo Cabret & Clocks / Time
• Caroline’s Comet & Astronomy
• Fuzzy Mud & Microbiology
• Hatchet & Outdoor Skills
• Airplanes & Flight
• Marine Biology
• Human Anatomy
• Plant Dissection