The World of Microorganisms

What You'll Learn

All living things share basic characteristics: they grow, reproduce, respond to their environment, and need energy to survive. Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, while animals must eat other organisms.

Key Words

environment
nutrients
prey

Materials Needed

plastic wrap
ruler
magnifying glass
paper towels
markers

Safety First

Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Look at the vocabulary words and write a definition for each in your own words.

Step 2 — Do

Build a model ecosystem in a jar using soil, small plants, and water. Seal it and observe how the water cycle works inside it for one week.

Step 3 — Observe

Watch carefully for any changes and note the time.

Step 4 — Record

Create a data table to organize your measurements.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which stage comes after a caterpillar in metamorphosis?