Cell Model

 In science, we use models when the things we are studying are too small, big, far away, in the past, or in the future. 

Cells are very small, so models work very well with cells. 

We can use other objects to model the key parts of cells.  

In each model, the key part is for us to know how it is like a cell . . . in other words, connect our model to the real-world.

Part 1: Cell Metaphor

Use the Cell Metaphor Cards to relate each object to a cell or to a cell part (organelle).

With your table group, divide up the cards so each person has at least 2, and each person does the following for the cards that they have.

Say out loud (optional: write in journal) sentences using one of the following formats:

• (The thing on the card) represents a cell because (complete the sentence).

• (The thing on the card) represents a (name the specific organelle) because (complete the sentence).

At your table, choose one to share with the rest of the class. Challenge: each subsequent group needs to use a different object or different organelle.

This is a way for us to connect our models to the real-world.

Part 2: Cell Model

Watch the Wacky History of Cell Theory (6 min) - pause at each of the 3 parts of cell theory and write them in the Cell Model Assignment "Research the Problem" section.

With your table group, follow the Cell Model Assignment guidelines to design and create a 3-D model of a cell for display in our "Model Showcase."

• Follow all instructions and rubrics in the Cell Model Assignment.

• Have your Assignment complete and checked before you begin your model.

• Use objects found in the classroom or that you provide to build your 3-D cell.

• Share your model with 5th graders on Google Meet in the Cell Model Showcase.

See past cell models here, here, and in this article on the Cell Model Showcase.

Pacing Guide

• Day 1: Do "Research the Problem," & "Explore Ideas," p.1

• Day 2: Do "Plan Summary," "Diagram of Plan," "Steps to Do the Plan," & "Test Solution" p. 2-3 - Get teacher initials on p. 3 and start building

• Day 3: Build and finish model including labels for type of cell & all organelles

  • Also complete the "Group Participation Assessment" on p. 3

For help with the steps of the designing solutions process, see this movie.

Part 3: Cell Membrane Challenge

Form a cell membrane with the group.

1. Stand in a circle side by side (close enough so that your shoulders touch).

2. Instruct the group to turn 90° to the right so that everyone is facing the back of the person in front of them.

3. Have participants put both hands on the shoulders of the person in front of them.

4. Then ask everyone to sit down slowly on the count of three. They sit back on the knees of the person in back of them forming 1 continuous sitting circle.

5. Assuming no one gives up, the group should be able to hold itself up.

6. Once the group has held the position for a 30sec or a minute, have everyone stand up at the same time.

• Note: if not everyone sits or stands at the same time many people could end falling to the ground.

For activities like this it is important to practice challenge by choice and not force anyone to participate if they are really uncomfortable. A good role for anyone who chooses not to participate is to ask them to be a spotter to help make sure that before the group sits down they are lined up correctly and once the group does sit that no one falls.

From https://www.teampedia.net/wiki/index.php?title=Lap_Sit

Part 4: Practice for Cell Model Showcase

Present your model to a group of students who do not know much about cells.

See 1/3 of the way down this District newsletter for a write-up of the Cell Model Showcase. Watch a student-made video of two showcase presentations.

On Friday, 1/24, our classes will present via Google Meet to 5th grade students who are studying biology right now.

In your presentation you will:

• Introduce yourselves. Be professional.

• Show and explain some steps of your design process (your paper).

• Show and explain some parts of your model. Teach them about cells.

• Say, "Thank you, are there any questions?"

• Then, ask them your "Test Solution" quiz questions.

Take time now to prepare and practice for the Cell Model Showcase.

Here is a Google Doc with a detailed Cell Model Showcase schedule. Note that period 7 students will have our class photographer use the class camera to record their presentations, as 5th graders are already out of school by the time our class meets.

Part 5: Cell Model Showcase

In your presentation:

• Introduce yourselves

• Show and explain all steps of your design process (your paper).

• Show and explain all parts of your model.

• Say, "Thank you, are there any questions?"

• Then, do your "Test Solution" (quiz questions, or whatever you came up with).

• After presenting, fill in your "Group Project Participation Assessment" on page 3 of the "Cell Model" assignment packet.

Cell Model Extension 1 (*): Jello Cell

Create a Jello cell including food objects. 

Prepare and deliver a lesson to your class in which you teach students the organelles.

Share with the class and enjoy Jello.

See creative past models made of Jello, and cake.