Cell Biology

This model simulates the processes of proton transport and ATP formation in a mitochondrion. Students may observe the processes and explore the impacts of ETC inhibitors, ATP synthase inhibitors, uncoupling proteins, or absence of oxygen on these processes. This model is modified from a NetLogo simulation developed by Steven Brewer (2004). Detailed membrane structures, rules of proton movement and regulation, and oxygen impacts are constructed in this model to provide a powerful dynamic visualization to support NGSS-aligned active learning.

• Grades: 6-12

• NGSS Standards: HS-LS1-7

This model simulates the processes of glucose regulation in liver cells. Students may observe the changes in blood sugar level regulated by glucose transportation, glycogenesis, and glycogenolysis.

• Grades: 6-12 

• NGSS Standards: HS-LS1-2, HS-LS1-3

This model simulates the processes of glucose regulation by the muscle. Students may observe the changes in blood sugar level regulated by glucose transportation, glycogenesis, and glycogenolysis.

• Grades: 6-12: 

• NGSS Standards: HS-LS1-2, HS-LS1-3

This model compares the processes of glucose regulation by the liver and muscle. Students may examine the two processes separately or in one system. Students may also observe the changes in blood sugar level regulated by glucose transportation, glycogenesis, and glycogenolysis.

• Grades: 6-12

• NGSS Standards: HS-LS1-2, HS-LS1-3

This model simulates the membrane potential of a neuronal axon segment, representing three states of membrane potential: resting potential, graded potential (excitatory), and action potential. Mirroring a real neuronal membrane, the model demonstrates how these three potentials shift in the same system based on different stimulus levels: none, weak, and strong (sufficient to reach threshold). Students can observe real-time ion movements through different channels and investigate channel functions by turning them on or off. 

• Grades: 9-12, AP-Biology, College

• NGSS Standards: HS-LS1-3