Antibiotics
I can explain what antibiotics are, and how they should be used to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Antibiotics
I can explain what antibiotics are, and how they should be used to limit the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Antibiotics are medicines that can only be used to treat bacterial infections; they do not work against viruses.
- Some antibiotics work by stopping bacteria developing a cell wall.
- Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics, and resistance can spread if antibiotics are not used correctly.
- Antibiotics must only be taken when they are prescribed by a doctor.
- Do not take antibiotics for the wrong reasons and always complete the prescribed course.
Keywords
Antibiotics - Antibiotics are substances that slow down or stop the growth of bacteria
Bacteria - Single celled prokaryotes.
Cell wall - Made of murein which is strong enough to withstand osmotic pressure but also allow substances to pass through.
Antibiotic resistance - When bacteria mutate and become less susceptible to the action of antibiotics.
Common misconception
Pupils may think that antibiotics work on all pathogens.
Antibiotics only kill bacteria. Antibiotics can only kill certain bacteria and so the doctor will prescribe the correct one.
Equipment
None required.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
flagellum
cell wall
cytoplasm
