Investigating dampness and mould growth
In this activity, students use bread slices to investigate the role of moisture in mould growth.
Dampness and mould
After 12 days, there is no visible mould on the dry bread. Both the control and damp bread slices have considerable mould growth.
By the end of this activity, students should be able to:
discuss the role of moisture in mould growth
explain how this activity relates to mould growth in damp houses
identify methods for minimising moisture levels in homes.
Download the Word file (see link below) for:
introduction/background notes
what you need
what to do
student handout.
Read the Healthy homes, healthy futures article as background to this activity. Then use the interactive Moisture sources in our homes to find out how moisture enters our homes and how we can minimise and remove it.
Nature of science
Asking questions, investigating, finding evidence and developing explanations are important skills that support students to make sense of the world around them. Providing opportunities for students to investigate relevant issues that are important to them builds their confidence in scientific investigation and action.
