Assignment Description Student Brief
Purpose: Develop understanding of how different microorganisms grow, survive, and reproduce under various environmental and nutritional conditions through independent research and clear scientific communication.
Scenario: You have been asked by a health science research team to prepare a concise scientific report on how microorganisms adapt to their environments. Your findings will inform laboratory practices for cultivating beneficial microorganisms and controlling harmful ones.
Task Instructions
- Select four microorganisms (e.g., two bacteria and two fungi, or other appropriate types such as algae or protozoa).
- Describe the conditions each requires to thrive, including: temperature range, pH level, oxygen requirements (aerobic/anaerobic), moisture/nutrient needs, and light availability (if relevant).
- Explain how these factors influence growth and reproduction.
- Compare similarities and differences between the requirements of the four microorganisms.
- Support your findings with scientific evidence and reference all sources (APA or Harvard).
- Present your report with clear headings, correct terminology, and professional formatting. Include tables/diagrams where helpful.
Format Requirements
- Typed scientific report (recommended length: 800–1,000 words).
- Include: Title page; Introduction; a section for each microorganism; Comparison & discussion; References.
- Label and reference all diagrams and tables appropriately.
Assessment Evidence: Individual written report (include reference list; append research notes if applicable).
Suggested Microorganisms: Escherichia coli, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Staphylococcus aureus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Penicillium notatum, Rhizopus stolonifer, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii.
Assessment Task Rubric
Use this rubric to assess the quality, depth, and presentation of students’ reports. The total available marks are 40.
Assessment Criteria Overview
| Grade | Descriptor (Aligned with BTEC Standards) |
|---|---|
| Pass (P) | Provides basic, accurate information on the environmental and nutritional requirements for four microorganisms, with limited detail or explanation. |
| Merit (M) | Provides clear, mostly accurate and well-organised explanations of how environmental and nutritional factors influence the growth of the four microorganisms. Uses appropriate terminology and structure. |
| Distinction (D) | Provides comprehensive, detailed and scientifically accurate analysis of the requirements of four microorganisms, with justified comparisons and use of valid scientific sources. The report is well-structured, analytical, and clearly communicated. |
Detailed Rubric (Total: 40 marks)
| Criteria | Pass (P) | Merit (M) | Distinction (D) | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Selection and Identification of Micro-organisms | Names four microorganisms with basic accuracy. | Names four distinct microorganisms with mostly correct scientific names and relevance to the task. | Accurately identifies four diverse microorganisms (scientific & common names) with clear justification for their inclusion. | 10 |
| 2. Description of Requirements to Thrive | States some conditions (e.g., temperature, moisture, oxygen, nutrients) for each organism, with limited detail. | Explains clearly how environmental or nutritional factors support growth; mostly accurate and referenced. | Provides detailed, scientifically sound explanations of each organism’s specific requirements, linking to biological processes. | 10 |
| 3. Analysis and Comparison | Makes basic or partial comparisons between organisms’ requirements. | Explains similarities and differences with some analysis. | Offers insightful, well‑reasoned comparisons supported by scientific justification and examples. | 5 |
| 4. Research and Use of Sources | Uses limited or general sources; citations may be inconsistent. | Uses reliable scientific sources and references appropriately. | Draws on a wide range of credible sources (textbooks, journals, authoritative websites) with consistent formatting (APA/Harvard). | 5 |
| 5. Organisation and Structure | Some organisation; sections may lack clarity. | Clear structure (introduction; sections per organism; conclusion). | Logical, cohesive structure with smooth transitions and precise scientific communication. | 5 |
| 6. Presentation and Communication | Mostly clear language; several grammar/format issues. | Mostly formal and clear; uses correct terminology. | Professional presentation—concise scientific tone; accurate spelling/grammar; appropriate tables/visuals. | 5 |
Mark Bands and BTEC Grade Conversion
| Range (out of 40) | Indicative Grade | Overall Descriptor |
|---|---|---|
| 34–40 | Distinction (D) | Exceptional understanding, detailed scientific insight, and professional presentation. |
| 27–33 | Merit (M) | Good understanding and communication with moderate depth and clarity. |
| 20–26 | Pass (P) | Basic understanding of microbial requirements with limited analysis. |
| < 20 | Not Achieved (NYA) | Insufficient evidence to meet Pass standard. |
Teacher notes: Consider encouraging a mix of prokaryotic and eukaryotic examples where appropriate. Suggested organisms include E. coli, Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus aureus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Penicillium, Rhizopus, and Chlamydomonas.