The Session Long Project for this course will be to compare and contrast specific characteristics between a pathogenic microorganism and a non-pathogenic microorganism. The purpose of the SLP is to provide you with an opportunity to study several microorganisms in detail. Through this process you will acquire valuable knowledge on the significance of various attributes of each microorganism. You will also understand the importance that microorganisms play in our lives.

Module I. Select a pathogenic and a nonpathogenic microorganism for the SLP. Provide a general description of the microorganisms and the reasons you selected it for the SLP. Be sure to use the scientific name for the microbes selected for the SLP. (Also the genus and species of each organism must written in italics. The genus of the organism is always capitalized while the species is not capitalized. For example, Actinomyces bovis.) Discuss the ecological niche that each microorganism is found in its natural environment. An ecological niche is that area or space in the environment where a specific species of microorganisms can survive and reproduce. "Certain combinations of environmental conditions are necessary for individuals of each species to tolerate the physical environment, obtain energy and nutrients, and avoid predators."

Example of Format

Module 1 - Introduction General Comments Organism 1 Organism 2 Comparisons and contrasts