Students compare various fungi with plants by extracting pigments to test for chlorophyll. They discover that fungi—with no seeds, roots, stems, leaves, or flowers—are in a class (actually, a kingdom) by themselves. They dissect mushrooms to investigate spore reproduction. Students also grow mold gardens in different cultures to test fungicides. Many activities focus on the one-celled fungi, yeast. Students observe yeast growth, budding, and fermentation (and yeast at work in pretzel dough) while controlling food and temperature variables. Based on the activities and research, students debate the benefits and hazards of fungi. (12 Activities)
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