Classroom Explorer Kit - STEM Mycology Unit (30 Students)
The Unseen World — Now Classroom-Ready
Bring the magic of mycology and microbiology to your classroom with a complete, standards-aligned unit that requires zero prior experience and minimal prep.
The Classroom Explorer Kit scales our popular Explorer Collection for full classroom use. Students work in pairs to collect samples from their environment, culture them on sterile agar plates, and observe microbial growth over 1-2 weeks — experiencing the scientific method firsthand.
What's Included:
Lab Supplies (for 30 students in pairs):
- 30× Pre-poured sterile agar plates
- 30× Sterile wrapped swabs
- 15× Pairs of nitrile gloves
- 15× Specimen tubes
- 5× 5X magnifying glasses (shared)
- Parafilm strips for plate sealing
Curriculum Materials:
- Instructor Guide with daily lesson plans (5-10 days)
- NGSS Alignment Document (MS-LS1, MS-LS2)
- 30× Student Observation Journals (printed booklets)
- Pre/Post Assessment (printable PDF)
- Lab Safety Guidelines
- Extension Activities for advanced learners
Bonus Items:
- 30× "Junior Scientist" badge buttons
- Explorer Portal access for digital resources
- Mush Ohio stickers
Learning Objectives:
Students will:
- Collect environmental samples using aseptic technique
- Observe and document microbial/fungal growth over time
- Apply the scientific method (hypothesis → experiment → observation → conclusion)
- Understand the ecological role of fungi and bacteria
- Practice scientific documentation and journaling
Standards Alignment:
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| MS-LS1-2 | Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell |
| MS-LS2-3 | Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts |
| MS-LS2-4 | Construct an argument supported by evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations |
Grade Levels: 5-9 (adaptable for elementary gifted or high school introductory)
Time Required: 5-10 class periods (45-50 min each)
Safety:
- All materials are non-toxic and age-appropriate
- Plates remain sealed during observation — no exposure to cultures
- Full safety guidelines included
- MSDS available upon request
Why Teachers Choose This Kit:
✓ No prep — everything is ready to use ✓ No mycology experience required — detailed instructor guide included ✓ Standards-aligned — documentation for administrators ✓ Engaging — students love watching things grow ✓ Affordable — less than $5 per student
Bulk Discounts: Ordering for multiple classrooms or a whole grade? Contact education@mushoh.io for volume pricing.
Purchase Orders Accepted: We accept school purchase orders. Email PO to education@mushoh.io.
