Define the term microorganism.
Describe the structure and life processes of bacteria.
Explain the ideal conditions required for microbial population growth.
Discuss the effect of temperature on bacterial population growth rates.
Describe the structure and life processes of fungi.
Culture and observe bacterial and fungal populations.
Describe how māori tūpuna used fungi for tā moko.
Explain why viruses are not considered living organisms.
Describe viral replication.
Define the term pathogen.
Discuss how common pathogens are transmitted.
Describe some common bacterial and fungal diseases.
Outline the role of antibiotics and how bacteria become resistant to them.
Describe the basic principles of immunity.
Describe the impact of vaccination on immunity.
Microorganism: An organism that can be seen only through a microscope. Microorganisms include bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Bacteria: A large group of unicellular microorganisms that have cell walls but lack a nucleus.
Fungi: Spore-producing organisms that feed on organic matter, including moulds, yeasts, mushrooms, and toadstools.
Virus: Consists of a nucleic acid molecule in a protein coat. Too small to be seen by a microscope. They need the living cells of a host to reproduce.
Immunity: The ability to resist infection or toxins by the action of specific antibodies.
Vaccine: A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against one or more diseases.
Pathogen: A bacterium, fungus or virus that can cause disease.
Antibiotic: A medicine (such as penicillin) that inhibits the growth of, or destroys, microorganisms.