Topic 4.1: Plant tissues and organs

1. Core Content:

• Introduction to tissues

Introduce the concept of a tissue as a group of similar cells adapted for a particular function; cell differentiation. Emphasise the relationship between their basic structure and function.

• Plant Tissues

Xylem, phloem, parenchyma, collenchyma, sclerenchyma, epidermis and meristematic tissues.

• Organs consist of a number of tissues.

Leaf structure will be used as an example of an organ. Other organs will be dealt with in their relevant sections in life processes.

• Leaf Structure

A cross-section of a dicotyledonous leaf to demonstrate and explain its structure in terms of its functions, i.e. photosynthesis, gas exchange and transport. Link this with plant tissues, appropriate cell organelles, movement across membranes and movement of molecules into, through and out of the leaf.