7th Grade Science Unit 3

Big Idea:

Cells are the basic unit of life and the organelles in cells are responsible for specific functions within the cell that allow it to live.

Student Expectations:

Priority TEKS

7.12(D) [Readiness] differentiate between structure and function in plant and animal cell organelles, including cell membrane, cell wall, nucleus, cytoplasm, mitochondrion, chloroplast, and vacuole.

Focus TEKS

7.3(B) [Ways to Show] use models to represent aspects of the natural world such as human body systems and plant and animal cells.

7.3(D) [Ways to Show] relate the impact of research on scientific thought and society, including the history of science and contributions of scientists as related to the content

7.12(F) [Supporting] recognize the components of cell theory

Ongoing TEKS

7.1(A) [Tools to Know] Demonstrate safe practices during laboratory and field investigations

7.1(B) [Tools to Know] Practice appropriate use and conservation of resources, including disposal, reuse, or recycling of materials.

7.4(A) [Tools to Know] use appropriate tools to collect, record, and analyze information, including life science models, hand lens, stereoscopes, microscopes, beakers, Petri dishes, microscope slides, graduated cylinders, test tubes, meter sticks, metric rulers, metric tape measures, timing devices, hot plates, balances, thermometers, calculators, water test kits, computers, temperature and pH probes, collecting nets, insect traps, globes, digital cameras, journals/notebooks, and other

7.4(B) [Tools to Know] use preventative safety equipment, including chemical splash goggles, aprons, and gloves, and be prepared to use emergency safety equipment, including an eye/face wash, a fire blanket, and a fire extinguisher.

7.2(A) [Tools to Know] The student is expected to plan and implement comparative and descriptive investigations by making observations, asking well defined questions, and using appropriate equipment and technology.

7.2(E) [Ways to Show] analyze data to formulate reasonable explanations, communicate valid conclusions supported by the data, and predict trends.

Student Learning Targets:

• I will identify the function of cell organelles and how they are necessary to the life of an organism.
• I will compare and contrast the structure of plant and animal cells using diagrams.
• I will identify the scientists involved in the cell theory and their contributions.
• I will compare and contrast prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells using a graphic organizer.
• I will write about organelle functions by creating a real world analogy.

Essential Questions:

• Why is the cell theory important?
• How has the cell theory changed society?
• How are cell organelles necessary for the function of a cell?
• How does structure and function differ in plant and animal cells?

Extra Information:

Adopted Textbook: Texas STEM, McGraw-Hill

District Grading Policy

Texas Gateway Online Resource Center