Beads and ‘Biomes

The issue of antibiotic resistance among bacterial pathogens is often misunderstood. Here, we present an activity that debunks misconceptions regarding microorganisms, such as pathogens, and addresses how antibiotics work. We propose this be incorporated into middle or high school classrooms addressing both real-world elements from the Next Generation Science Standards. Students are encouraged to use hands-on experiences toward hypothesis development testing better understand spread commensals. Over half students who participated in self-reported they were likely share information learned outside their classroom, reflecting real-time impacts on science stewardship students. This also presents with has clear action items can undertake effect positive change.