Microscopic Life in Your Home
Micro world Series
What’s inside...
This series explores the diverse microscopic life found in various environments, including homes and gardens. It details the ways micro-organisms survive, reproduce, and impact their surroundings. The books support KS2 Science Curriculum studies on micro-organisms, discussing both harmful and beneficial microbes, from those causing decay to those used in household products like washing powder. The series includes activity panels for further exploration, and has been checked by an educational consultant. Activity panels suggest experiments children can do to explore the topic further. Checked by an educational consultant. Supports the KS2 Science Curriculum.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
9-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some tiny organisms mentioned in the book that you think might be living in our home? Why?
How do you think these microscopic creatures affect our daily lives?
Can you think of ways we might be able to see these organisms even though they're invisible to the naked eye?
Why is it important to know about microscopic life in our surroundings?
What feelings do you have knowing there are so many tiny living things around us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about microscopic life, using their responses as a springboard for further discussion post-reading.
While reading, pause at interesting points to discuss the illustrations and details provided, relating them to familiar items or spaces in your home.
Post reading, encourage your child to draw or list the microscopic organisms mentioned in the book and discuss their roles in the home ecosystem.
Link the topic to personal hygiene and cleanliness habits, explaining how understanding microscopic life can help us stay healthy.
Plan a simple DIY experiment, like making a homemade microscope using a water droplet, to spark further interest and understanding of the subject.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciating the Unseen World
Explanation: Through vivid illustrations and engaging text, this book reveals the myriad of microscopic organisms that coexist with us in our homes, teaching children to appreciate and respect the complexity of the world around them, even the parts unseen.
Real-World Application: Children learn to observe and appreciate their environment more closely, understanding that there is more to their surroundings than meets the eye.
Example Lesson: Understanding Ecosystems
Explanation: The book explains how even small environments like homes can have their own ecosystems. It discusses the roles different microorganisms play in maintaining the health and balance of these ecosystems.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to think about how their actions affect the environment and promote eco-friendly practices from a young age.
Example Lesson: Importance of Hygiene
Explanation: By learning about the various bacteria and organisms that thrive in different parts of the home, children understand the importance of cleanliness and hygiene to keep harmful microbes at bay.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by adopting good hygiene habits like washing hands regularly and keeping their living spaces clean.
Example Lesson: Scientific Curiosity
Explanation: The book's exploration of microscopic life ignites curiosity about biology and science, encouraging children to ask questions and seek answers through observation and study.
Real-World Application: This can lead to active participation in science classes at school or conducting small experiments at home under guidance to explore more about biology and science.
Example Lesson: Respecting All Forms of Life
Explanation: By showcasing the importance and functions of even the smallest organisms in our homes, the book teaches children to respect all forms of life, regardless of size.
Real-World Application: This lesson can foster a sense of stewardship for living things, translating into more humane treatment of animals and careful consideration of life in all its forms.