Page 20 - Innovator's Science-8

Spherical, presence of
3. Algae
chlorophyll–a green pigment

Spherical comma, spiral or
rod-shaped, one long hair-like
4. Bacteria
structure and many small hair-like
Science projec ons around the cell
Bytes
When observing microorganisms, one may find different kinds such as
Testimony
Viruses are microscopic bacteria, fungi, protozoa, algae, and actinomycetes. These tiny creatures
and a cellular. Viruses are found everywhere, especially in soil, where they play important roles
mul ply when they enter
a living cell. They may like breaking down dead plants and animals, helping plants get nutrients,
infect plants, animals, or and keeping the soil healthy. Although microorganisms are very small and
bacterial cells and may can only be seen with a microscope that magnifies them 100 to 400 times,
cause a disease.
they have a big impact on the environment and our lives. Recording
observations of these microorganisms and discussing them in class helps in
understanding their diversity and importance in nature.

HOW ARE WE CONNECTED TO MICROBES?

Microorganisms are found almost everywhere around us—in the soil,
water, air, and on surfaces. When food such as lemons, tomatoes, or
oranges rot and show powdery or cotton-like growth, it is because tiny
microbes called fungi or bacteria have infected them. These microbes

Fruit with come from the air, soil, water, or even from people touching the food.
microorganisms Microorganisms are so small that we need a microscope to see them. They
growing on it
are everywhere and play an important role in nature and our daily lives by
helping decompose dead things, recycle nutrients, and sometimes cause
food to spoil. This shows how easily microbes can come in contact with

things around us and affect them.
This happens because microorganisms can be found everywhere, be it in

water, soil, air, or even in some food items.
Microorganisms are very diverse and can live in many different places, even

in extreme environments. Some microbes are found in hot water springs
where temperatures are very high, while others live in very cold places like
snow-covered areas. Microorganisms also live inside our bodies, such as
the bacteria in our intestines that help with digestion. Just like plants and

animals, microorganisms vary in their shapes and sizes: some are round,
some are rod-shaped, and others have irregular shapes. Using tools like
microscopes or foldscopes, you can explore surfaces of leaves, stems,

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