In this discussion, you will be adopting the perspective of the specific microbe that you are working on for your topic presentation, and describing the world through their “eyes” via a multimedia presentation that includes first-person narration. Here’s what to do:

Step 1: Consider these questions (from the perspective of your microorganism)

• What is your genus and species name (e.g., Escherichia coli)?
• Where do you live?
• How do you reproduce?
• How do you feed/supply your energy needs?
• How do you interact with your environment and other species?
• How do you go about infecting your hosts?

Step 2: Research your microorganism (using at least 2 resources beyond our text)

• Begin your research by using the index and glossary of your Microbiology text to research your microorganism.
• Then supplement this research with at least 2 additional resources located using the course Library Guide, accessible via the left course menu.
  • These must be from reliable, objective, academic, medical publications. No standard Google searches or Wikipedia sources will be accepted.  

Step 3: Create a multimedia presentation of 2-3 minutes

Address the step 1 questions while both visualizing (photos and/or videos) and giving voice to your microorganism. To be clear, this is not you reporting on your microorganism; this is you being your microorganism!

• Record original, first-person audio narration.
• Be sure to include visual elements (photos or videos) along with any supporting text.

The actual tool you use to create your presentation is up to you (e.g., PowerPoint + voiceover, screencast video, VoiceThread presentation, etc.)

Step 4: Review our sample My Life as a Microbe presentation (Links to an external site.)

We have executed our example as a VoiceThread presentation, but again, that is but one of multiple options.

• As previous, this example relates to the SARS-CoV-2 and the disease it causes: COVID-19.

Step 5: Post your presentation to the forum

At the top of your post, clearly identify your genus and species, then attach your presentation file or link.

• For uploads, make sure that your file has loaded correctly and opens.
• For links, make sure the sharing settings are such that your instructor and fellow classmates can access it.

In addition, provide the following in a Word document:

• Full APA style references for the sources you have used to develop the presentation (see Step 2 regarding source requirement)
• Also provide references for any photos and videos used.
• Your voiceover script