K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
What Are Germs?

Learning Objectives

  • Understand that germs are tiny living things that can cause illness.
  • Learn how germs spread through touch and the importance of not touching your face.
  • Recognize the importance of washing hands with soap and water to remove germs.
  • Identify hand gel as an alternative for killing germs when soap and water are not available.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by introducing the concept of germs as tiny living things that can cause illness. Explain that germs are so small we cannot see them, but they can make us sick if they get inside our bodies.

Go to the Lesson

Engage students with a question: 'Have you ever been sick? How do you think we get sick?' This will help them connect personal experiences to the lesson.

Direct Instruction

Explain how germs spread through touch and the importance of not touching your face. Discuss how washing hands with soap and water can remove germs.

Introduce the video 'How to Wash Your Hands' to demonstrate proper handwashing techniques. This video is useful for showing students the steps to effectively wash their hands and prevent the spread of germs.

Video thumbnail

Guided Exploration

Discuss with students how germs can be spread to other places when we touch things around us. Encourage them to think of examples of objects they touch every day.

Watch the video 'When We Get Sick' to understand how to care for oneself when sick and prevent spreading germs. This video provides practical advice on hygiene and recovery.

Video thumbnail

Hands-On Activity

Conduct a handwashing demonstration with students. Have them practice washing their hands using the proper techniques shown in the video.

Use glitter to simulate germs. Have students apply glitter to their hands and then wash it off to see how thorough washing removes 'germs'.

Independent Practice

Ask students to draw a picture of themselves washing their hands and write a sentence about why it is important.

Have students practice using hand gel and discuss when it is appropriate to use it as an alternative to soap and water.

Check for Understanding

Review the key points about germs and handwashing. Ask students to explain how germs spread and why washing hands is important.

Use the assessment 'Your Body and Senses – Review' to evaluate students' understanding of the lesson. This assessment includes activities that reinforce learning about the human body and senses.

Assessment thumbnail

Review and Reflection

Reflect on the lesson by asking students to share one new thing they learned about germs and how to prevent getting sick.

Encourage students to discuss with their families what they learned and demonstrate proper handwashing at home.

Assessment and Extension

Administer the 'Keeping Active Diary' assessment to encourage students to think about staying healthy through regular physical activity and hygiene.

Assessment thumbnail

Encourage students to take the Unit Quiz to test their comprehension of the topic 'What Are Germs?'.

Try the Quiz

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