Guide

2
Main Module | Energy from Mud? Thank a Microbe! Introduction
Teaching Rationale
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) represent an exciting, emerging technology for
generating electricity that is clean and reliable. In this module students will
learn how electricity is produced by certain bacteria during their natural
metabolic process and how a microbial fuel cell works.
The progression of lessons provided in this module has been designed to give
students the background and instruction necessary to engage in their own
exploration of microbial fuel cells. Each lesson builds upon the learning in the
preceding activity and it is recommended that the lessons be done sequen
tially.
The reading material and lab activities help provide concrete learning
opportunities for abstract concepts. Students with minimal background
knowledge in microbiology and electricity can perform these activities (see
suggested prerequisites).
Note: This module is intended for Middle School Students.
Prior to starting these investigations it is recommended that students have a
basic understanding of:
• Characteristicsofalllivingorganismsandmicrobes(specically
bacteria)
• Energyandelectricitybasics
If additional background information is required prior to starting this module
students may complete Sub-Module 1: Meet the Microbes and Module 2:
ElectricityandCircuits.
iNtroductioN
PrerequiSiteS