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How can we stop germs in their tracks?
GERMS. They lurk in every classroom. Each year, students miss an estimated 164 MILLION school days due to illness. In this project, students will fight back against these microscopic monsters with this public-service project designed to make your school—and the world—a safer and healthier place. They will collect germs from common surfaces such as desks, laptops, and more. Then they’ll test the effectiveness of disinfectants in fighting germs. Finally, they’ll create a public service announcement for their school!
Imagine if kids could keep themselves and their families healthier by developing smart habits to protect against germs. What a great way to build healthy routines to last a lifetime!
Project Learning Targets
Lesson 1: Students begin to understand how germs spread.
Lesson 2: Students design a fair test to investigate the spread of germs.
Lesson 3: Students learn about and share knowledge about germs.
Lesson 4: Students make observations on germ growth.
Lesson 5: Students learn how to structure a public service announcement.
Lesson 6: Students create a first draft for their PSA.
Lesson 7: Students understand how to refine the work of their peers.
Lesson 8: Students share their PSAs with the world.
For lesson descriptions, download the project overview.
For K–8 content connections, download the content correlations.
What is included with your project?
Sample Online Resources
- Blue Apple Book List
- Glitter Games: Instruction and Mats
- Growing Bacteria—Sick Science! #210 (YouTube 2:11)
- “Battle That Bacteria!” Experiment Plan
- Characteristics of an Effective PSA
- And so much more!
Kit Supplies
- Glitter
- Rubber Gloves
- Face Masks
- Petri Dishes
- Agar Powder
- Bar Soap
- Transparent Graph Paper
- English Language Arts: Planning, Revising, and Editing
- Math: Real-Life Area
- Science: Multiple Solutions
- Social Studies: Evolving Perspectives
- Social-Emotional Learning: Responsible Decision-Making and Social Awareness
- Learn from Health Professionals
- Skype with a Scientist
- Connect with a Writing Professional
- Spread the News
Replicable Examination
After students have analyzed the data from their bacterial growth experiment, have them compare their results with another class that did the experiment the same way.
- Differentiated Instruction
- Cooperative Learning
To see a complete list of what’s included in your project, download the project overview.
About the Author
Each Blue Apple Project Includes:
- Engaging lessons designed to make learning memorable, meaningful, and fun
- PBL Supports such as: real-world connections, collaboration options, cross-curricular content, and just-in-time professional development
- Time-saving links to dozens of curated online resources
- Kit of supplies that bring your project to life
- Access to a Project Coach to ask questions and share ideas... you're never alone!
