Fleming’s Comic Lab

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Introduction:

Fleming’s discovery of penicillin began with a messy lab and a forgotten experiment. In this creative activity, children turn the true story of penicillin into a comic strip that blends science and storytelling.

What You Will Need:

• Blank paper or comic strip template

• Pencils and colored markers

• Ruler (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Sketch a 4–6 panel comic that tells the story of Fleming’s discovery.

• Include key moments: the moldy dish, the curious observation, and the medical breakthrough.

• Use fun captions or speech bubbles to explain what is happening in each scene.

• Add humor or personality to the bacteria and mold characters!

• Share your comic with classmates or display it as part of a science showcase.

What to Look For:

• Did you include the major events of Fleming’s discovery?

• Do the comic panels explain the science clearly and creatively?

• Did your characters help tell the story?

Fun Fact:

Fleming’s lab really was untidy, he once admitted that the mold may not have grown if his workbench had been neater!

Safety Tip:

No safety concerns, just keep pencil tips sharp and marker caps closed to prevent drying out.

Journaling Prompt:

Write a short paragraph explaining why storytelling (even in comic form) is a helpful way to understand science.