Four size fractions of a black shale ore originating from the Lubin Copper Mine (Southwestern Poland) were leached in a small column using autotrophic bacteria (Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans). The best results of bioleaching were obtained for the most fine fraction, where the copper recovery was 84%, and the surface area of the ore increased from 4.50 m²/g to 13.74 m²/g. Based on the shrinking core model, a new model describing bioleaching of the black shale type ore in a column is proposed. The model is based on assumption of dependence of copper recovery and surface area increase during the process.