1. Micro-Organisms

2. What is a Micro-Organism? An living organism that is too small to be seen with the naked eye. Also known as “microbes”. They are found everywhere in the world. You need a microscope to see them. There are many different types of microorganisms including: - bacteria-fungi-viruses-algae http://www.pbs.org/strangedays/glossary/M.html http://library.thinkquest.org/CR0212089/micr.htm

3. What do Micro-Organisms Do? Micro-Organisms do just about anything, but most are responsible for breaking things down. Some cause diseases (bacteria, viruses, fungi). Some break down soil into food for plants to absorb. Some are used in medicine to help cure diseases. http://www.biology4kids.com/files/micro_bacteria.html http://library.thinkquest.org/CR0212089/micr.htm

4. Bacteria Single-celled. Reproduce through Asexual reproduction. Live everywhere. Can live in extremely hot and extremely cold temperatures. Can cause food poisoning, acne, and cavities. Help waste decompose, make oxygen, and break down food. http://www.lessonplanspage.com/SciencePEBacteriaFriendOrFoe AndProperHandWashing45.htm

5. Fungi Mushrooms, rust and yeast are examples of fungi. Can be uni-cellular or multi-cellular. Reproduce through sexual reproduction. Fungi break down dead and organic matter into nutrients to be absorbed by plants. http://tolweb.org/Fungi http://library.thinkquest.org/CR0212089/fungi.htm

6. Viruses Cause infectious diseases. Replicates in the cells of another organism. Have genes made of DNA and RNA. Millions of different types of viruses. Infect both plants and animals. Smaller than bacteria. http://www.news-medical.net/health/What-is-a-Virus.aspx http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=5997