Title: Identify classifications of microorganisms based on cell wall structure.
Course: Medical Laboratory Technology II (14102-II) > Section: Performing Basic Microbiology Skills

Identification should include

- the cell wall structure of gram-positive bacteria
- the cell wall structure of gram-negative bacteria
- the gram stain reaction and morphology of Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, gram-positive cocci vs. E. coli, and gram-negative rods.

Process/Skill Questions:

- What are the differences in the cell wall of a gram-positive vs. a gram-negative bacteria?
- Why would a Gram stain be ineffective in staining a virus?
- Why is the Gram stain such a rapid and cost-effective means for early diagnosis of bacterial infections?
- How can the Gram stain reaction and morphology be used to differentiate Staphylococcus and E. coli?