Mould is a type of fungi which grows and forms a fuzzy coating on organic matter.

A micro-organism is a very tiny living thing.

Fungi are organisms that include moulds, mushrooms, and yeasts. They feed on organic matter, usually from dead things.

Nutrients are important substances that living things use to stay alive and healthy.

Something that is moist is damp or a little wet.

Micro-organisms living on food: plan and do (non-statutory)

Science

In this Why we group and classify living things unit, pupils learn about why we classify plants and animals based on specific characteristics. In the Species and classification unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn more about the identification and classification of organisms, including at the cellular level.

In the Living things and the environment unit, pupils learnt to recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways. In this Why we group and classify living things unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics

Why we group and classify living things

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Which of these does mould need to grow well?

sugary foods like chocolate, ice cream and fizzy drinks

On which type of foods does mould commonly grow the quickest?

Scientists make a {{}} when they use what they already know to say what they think will happen in an enquiry.

because all scientific enquiries are very dangerous

because mould can be harmful to other living things

because equipment needs to be used carefully so it is not broken

Why do scientists need to follow strict safety rules when observing mould growing on food?

On which of these objects would mould not be able to grow?

Plants, animals and micro-organisms are all groups of {{}} things.

Match the types of living thing to the correct group.

If something is moist then it is quite ...

to make sure they have controlled all the variables

to make sure everyone knows what they need to do

to make sure no one is harmed during the enquiry

Why do scientists follow safety rules when carrying out enquiries?

We can use a piece of equipment called a {{}} for observing micro-organisms.

things that are or have come from living things

things that have been made without using chemicals

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Micro-organisms living on food: plan and do (non-statutory)

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.