Tracking a Virus

This curriculum resource from Teach Engineering provides educators with a hands-on activity to help students understand how viruses work. In the activity, students simulate the spread of a virus using a cup of water and sodium carbonate. After completing the activity, students will be able to describe what a virus is, how a virus replicates itself, how the immune system responds to viruses, and how the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is unique. This resource includes information about how the activity meets Common Core and state standards, a materials list, worksheets, and answer keys. The activity guide is divided into several sections, including Procedure, Assessment, Investigating Questions, Safety Issues, and Troubleshooting Tips.