Have you ever wondered if your state has its own official microbe? It might sound peculiar, but just like state flowers and animals, some states have embraced the microbial world by designating a state microbe. Intrigued? Let me share a little story with you.
Picture this: you stumble upon the fact that some states have a designated microbe, and your initial reaction might be a mix of surprise and amusement. That was precisely my response when I first discovered this fascinating aspect of state symbolism. But before you dismiss it as mere trivia, consider why it matters.
The designation of state microbes isn’t merely a quirky bureaucratic decision; it highlights a significant opportunity for science education. Yet, despite its potential, the concept faces a challenge: awareness. Many overlook the educational value hidden beneath the surface of this seemingly whimsical idea.
However, diving deeper unveils a world of educational possibilities. By spotlighting microbes in state legislation, we open avenues for discussing their role in our lives. From the beneficial aspects of fermentation to the crucial role of antibiotics, state microbes serve as ambassadors for microbiology education.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the captivating realm of state microbes. You’ll learn about the selection process, explore states with designated microbes, and uncover the educational opportunities they offer. Through this exploration, we’ll understand why state microbes are more than just symbols; they’re a stepping stone for enhancing science literacy and fostering a deeper appreciation for the microbial world.
Topics Covered:
- The process of choosing a state microbe and its educational implications.
- States with designated state microbes: examples and significance.
- How teachers and students can actively participate in the state microbe initiative to promote science education and advocacy.
So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the fascinating world of state microbes!
The process of choosing a state microbe provides science education opportunities
Selecting and proposing a state microbe provides opportunities to talk about microbes. News articles are written about the weird idea of state microbes. Government officials and scientists discuss why these microbes matter and are deserving of the spotlight. As a microbiologist and microbe-enthusiast, I believe conversations about microbes are crucial because microbes play many different roles in our lives, many good and a few bad, yet often are portrayed only in a negative light. Naming a state microbe not only encourages positive conversations around microbes but also education about pathogens and how to manage them wisely. If you’d like to read an expanded explanation on this topic, feel free to jump over to this blog post Not All Microbes Are Germs.
How does a state get a microbe?
It actually takes quite a bit of effort for a state to claim a state microbe. A bill must be passed to make a law. This same process occurs when states choose any other state symbol, like a flower, bird, or animal. If you need a refresher on how bills become laws, this article, about how some elementary school children got involved in proposing a state symbol, gives a clear and concise explanation.
What states have a state microbe?
The Wikipedia page for “State microbe” shows all of the current states that have a state microbe and the statuses of the bills in states that have not yet passed a law for a state microbe. There are only two state microbes that have been passed into law, which are for Oregon and New Jersey, and three states have proposed state microbes.
The first state to officially have its own microbe was Oregon in 2013. They chose Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is brewer’s/baker’s yeast. It makes sense being a state that is known for its many craft breweries.
New Jersey was the second state to choose a state microbe. Streptomyces griseus took the honorable position on May 9, 2019, because this bacterium was discovered there. We care about it because it produces the antibiotic streptomycin, which can be used to treat tuberculosis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and other types of infections.
One person who has given the idea of state microbes much thought is Moselio (Elio) Schaechter, PhD, a microbiologist and the creator of the blog Small Things Considered. In 2010, he compiled a list of nominations for state microbes worth checking out. These nominations came from folks who learned of his excitement for state microbes on National Public Radio’s All Things Considered as well as readers of New Scientist and Small Things Considered contributors.
Teachers: How to get your students involved in state microbes
So, you’re intrigued by the idea of state microbes and want to see your state get involved? Here are some ways you and your students can be a part of the action!
Make it a Classroom Activity!
- Research: Start by exploring the microbes that are important to your state’s environment and industries. Are there microbes involved in your state’s agricultural products? Perhaps there’s a unique microbe found in a local body of water. Encourage students to research and learn about these fascinating tiny lifeforms.
- Brainstorming Candidates: Once students have a good understanding of the microbial world in your state, hold a brainstorming session! Have them nominate potential microbes based on their importance, history, or interesting characteristics.
- Creating a Compelling Case: After selecting a candidate, guide students in researching the microbe’s significance and how it represents your state. This could involve creating presentations, posters, or even writing letters to state representatives explaining their pick.
Spreading the Word
- School Events: Showcase student research on state microbes during science fairs or school presentations.
- Local Media: Connect with local newspapers or radio stations. Students could be interviewed about their chosen microbe and the importance of state microbes in general.
- Contact your Representatives: Encourage students to write letters or emails to their state representatives expressing their interest in having a state microbe.
Remember, the key is to make it engaging and educational! By sparking curiosity about microbes and their role in your state, students can be powerful advocates for this unique initiative. Who knows, your classroom might just be the one to propose the next winning state microbe!
State Microbes: A Stepping Stone for Science Literacy
The idea of state microbes may seem silly on the surface, but I believe it matters because of the potential for science education as a result of putting microbes in the spotlight and in front of government officials. I would love to see a day when all states have a state microbe. But for now, I’d be happy to simply see more states get involved in proposing a microbe for their state.
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