Handwashing Laboratory Activities: Fingerprint Technique

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In this lab (Activity #1 on page), learners compare bacteria growth on two petri dishes containing nutrient agar: one that has been touched by a finger washed only with water and one that has been touched by a finger washed with soap. Learners incubate the plates for 24-48 hours and then score the results based on the bacteria growth they observe. Use this activity to emphasize the importance of handwashing and the effectiveness of soap to disinfect.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
1 to 7 days
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • Two petri plates containing nutrient agar
  • Soap
  • Marker for labeling
  • Sink/water
  • Incubator (optional)
  • Paper for recording results

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Viruses and Bacteria
    • Human Body
      • Muscles and Skin
      • Health and Nutrition
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Collection
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data
      • Formulating Explanations

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves teamwork and communication skills
  • Uses STEM to solve real-world problems
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Case, Ed.D., Christine L.

Rights: