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More Than Meets The Microscope
More Than Meets The Microscope
Microbiology and Immunology Centennial Learning Journey at NUS
Written By
Chloe Tan Zhi Yu
Shooting Academy, Secondary 4
The National University of Singapore’s (NUS) state-of-the-art research facilities have left me in awe. On 16 May 2025, our class, along with the IBDP Year 5 cohort, had the exciting opportunity to participate in the Microbiology and Immunology Centennial Learning Journey at NUS in conjunction to their 100th anniversary - a unique experience that involved microbes, immune defences, and antibodies and viruses.
We began by observing various microbes, one of which was biofilm - a community of bacteria and other microorganisms - that was sampled directly from someone’s washing machine! Out of all the activities, the test for antibodies stood out the most for me. After collecting our saliva into a test-tube we got to play doctor, testing our saliva against the bacteria, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Once mixed with the S. mutans, the mixture slowly evaporated, revealing small clumps. The clumps were indicative of the presence of antibodies, defenders of our immune system. A large amount was proof of a healthy immune system, while a small amount suggests fewer cavity-causing bacteria, implying one’s good oral hygiene. This experience has opened my eyes into the intertwined connection between ourselves, and the seemingly insignificant microbes. From bacteria to viruses to unicellular organisms, they are everywhere, interacting with us on a daily basis. To wrap things up, we were rewarded with a bottle of Yakult at the end of the learning journey.
Big thanks to the lecturer and teaching assistants for sharing their passion and our Biology teachers, Ms Wang and Mr Heng, for giving us the opportunity to attend this learning journey. I am looking forward to the next one!
Written By
Chloe Tan Zhi Yu
Shooting Academy, Secondary 4
The National University of Singapore’s (NUS) state-of-the-art research facilities have left me in awe. On 16 May 2025, our class, along with the IBDP Year 5 cohort, had the exciting opportunity to participate in the Microbiology and Immunology Centennial Learning Journey at NUS in conjunction to their 100th anniversary - a unique experience that involved microbes, immune defences, and antibodies and viruses.
We began by observing various microbes, one of which was biofilm - a community of bacteria and other microorganisms - that was sampled directly from someone’s washing machine! Out of all the activities, the test for antibodies stood out the most for me. After collecting our saliva into a test-tube we got to play doctor, testing our saliva against the bacteria, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans). Once mixed with the S. mutans, the mixture slowly evaporated, revealing small clumps. The clumps were indicative of the presence of antibodies, defenders of our immune system. A large amount was proof of a healthy immune system, while a small amount suggests fewer cavity-causing bacteria, implying one’s good oral hygiene. This experience has opened my eyes into the intertwined connection between ourselves, and the seemingly insignificant microbes. From bacteria to viruses to unicellular organisms, they are everywhere, interacting with us on a daily basis. To wrap things up, we were rewarded with a bottle of Yakult at the end of the learning journey.
Big thanks to the lecturer and teaching assistants for sharing their passion and our Biology teachers, Ms Wang and Mr Heng, for giving us the opportunity to attend this learning journey. I am looking forward to the next one!
- Buddy Beginnings
- More Than Meets The Microscope
