This short clip shows how microorganisms can help us to produce some of the foods we like to eat. It is ideal for use as a lesson starter in KS2 science, especially with Year 6. A baker demonstrates how yeast can cause bread to rise. Next, a cheese-maker shows us how microorganisms convert milk to lactic acid to make cheese; he also explains how the microorganisms continue to live as we eat the cheese. The puzzler for pupils is this: What is the link between the way we make compost and the way we make yoghurt? See the accompanying teachers' notes by primary science adviser John Stringer for further notes explaining the science behind the problems, and suggested extension activities.

Video Series: Lesson Starters
Release Date 2009