Content Objective: Describe the basics of cell theory and the exceptions to cell theory and the characteristics of specialized cells.
Language Objective: Identify the functions of cells from the number and variety of organelles.
Syllabus Details:
1.5 - Cells can only be formed by division of pre-existing cells.
1.5 - The first cells must have arisen from non-living material.
1.5 - Evidence from Pastuer’s experiments that spontaneous generation of cells and organisms does not now occur on Earth.
1.1 - Living organisms are composed of cells.
Homework: See Homework Page
Activity 1 - Cell Theory Discovery
Watch this video, BBC - The Cell, from 32 min to 50 min. It discusses the discovery of cells and cell theory. The basics of this theory are here:
Basics of "Classic" Cell Theory:
1. all known living things are made up of cells.
2. the cell is structural & functional unit of all living things.
3. all cells come from pre-existing cells by division
"Modern" Cell Theory add 3 more statements:
4. cells contains hereditary information which is passed from cell to cell during cell division.
5. All cells are basically the same in chemical composition.
6. all energy flow (metabolism & biochemistry) of life occurs within cells.
When you are finished please answer one of these follow up questions in Google Classroom under activity 1.
Serendipity can play a large role in science. Use an example from this video that shows how serendipity can play a role in science.
A paradigm shift, a concept identified by the American physicist and philosopher Thomas Kuhn, is a fundamental change in the basic concepts and experimental practices of a scientific discipline. Was Cell Theory a paradigm shift? Use examples to support your answer.
Activity 2 - Cells from Cells
Using the links below and information from the movie, explain with the aid of a diagram how Louis Pasteur disproved spontaneous generation.
Louis Pasteur - Spontaneous Generation - Just watch number 1 (though we will talk about 2 later in the course)
Louis Pasteur - Document
Activity 3
Using the card sort, match up the specialized cells to each description and picture.
Make special note of the liver cells and palisade mesophyll.
Think about what makes specialized cells specialized? All cells have the exact same DNA and genes, so what happens? We will talk about this in class.
Activity 4 - Atypical Examples of Cell Theory
The following are atypical examples of cell theory:
striated muscle
giant algae
aseptate fungus
Find out why and explain using one of the following options:
A series of 5 photographs
An icon and logo
A recorded dialogue (max 3 minutes) between a group of three (one one person needs to post it - add partners names in comments)
....and then post your assignment in Google Classroom.
Activity 1, Activity 2, and Activity 4
Please complete assigned kognity readings and questions.
A. Strengthen Your Skills
B. Expand Your Knowledge
Dig Philosophy? Dig into the Philosophy of Science