Creator: National Academy of Sciences | visit site
Grade Range: 8 - 11
This webpage on the evolution of disease provides clear information about how natural selection works with infectious agents. It also addresses the concept of exponential growth. After reading the information, click on the flash clip at the bottom of the first page to view a simulation of how a single E.coli bacteria reproduce. Keep in mind that Flash isn’t supported on all devices. You can also find information on HIV, Malaria, TB, and more. This is a great image for having students understand bacterial reproduction.
In the Classroom
Use this to teach evolution, bacteria, or population growth in biology and environmental science. This will help students better understand how bacteria reproduce, and why disease causing organisms are so very successful. Start a lesson on bacteria infections by asking students "why is bacteria such a big problem?" Ask students whether they think bacteria as a species are successful or not. Have students read and watch the flash simulation. Have students discuss the rate of growth, and make sure to point out that the simulation is timed just the way that bacteria reproduce in nature. This would also make a good lead into a conversation about how not all evolution is good for the human species. It will help to point out that humans are just another animal species, and need to be studied as such.
At Home
This is a great site to support your scientist at home when learning about evolution, bacteria, or population growth in biology and environmental science at school. The flash simulation is a great visual for your student to understand the rate of growth and how bacteria reproduces in nature.
Tags
population, bacteria, diseases, hiv/aids,