Bacteria Study (Web)

In this activity, students will use resources found on the web to gain an understanding of how bacteria are stained and classified. Students can use this activity as a pre-lab or to supplement a unit on bacteria and pathology.

First of all, review the steps for Gram Staining at WikiHow

1. Who developed the Gram Stain technique?

2. Why is gram staining important for classifying bacteria?

3. Summarize each step of the technique (do not copy, try to condense each step into 3-5 words)

4. Compare gram negative bacteria to gram positive bacteria (focus on the details of the cell wall.)

 

Check out these videos on Gram Stains to get a very clear idea of how you will be doing one in the lab.

Youtube: Gram Stain | Gram Staining by BioRad

5. What is the purpose of passing the slide with the bacteria specimen through the flame of a bunsen burner?

6. What are the chemicals used in the staining process?

7. Based on the instructions and videos, what are some precautions that should be taken during the gram staining technique

Anatomy of Prokaryote Cells

1. What is the main difference between a prokaryote and eukaryote cell?

2. Sketch and label the three main shapes of bacteria.

3. What is the difference between staphylococci and streptococci?

4. What are the three shapes of spiral bacteria?

Bacteria Images and Research

Access PHIL (Public Health Image Library) and explore the bioterrorism section. This page documents pathogens that are harmful to humans and could be used as biological weapons.

**Warning: some images are inappropriate for young viewers**