Monitoring Water Quality: Coliform Bacteria Experiment
By learning some basic procedures for quantifying coliform bacteria in aquatic systems, students can create a database with information on the relative health of ponds, streams, and watersheds. This information can be used to identify problems, possible sources of contamination, and potential solutions.
This experiment describes how to make a column and the type of long term observations that are possible. In addition the discrete strata that emerge in columns are explored. Modifications for the middle school classroom are provided.
In this protocol we document how to collect microbial life in a column; in addition we suggest possible staining techniques. Modifications for the middle school classroom are provided.
Carbon Dioxide Evolution from Sediments
What is the role of microbes in the carbon cycle? In this experiment we demonstrate how to determine the carbon dioxide uptake of a microbial community. Modifications for the middle school classroom are provided.
A Comparison of Microbial DNA Sequences
Allow your students the opportunity to use actual genome data to construct a phylogenic tree. They will apply their knowledge of biology to a novel scenario.
Bacteriological Techniques in the Middle School Classroom
A case study of how to use a local nature center for a middle school
audience.