Cells Resources

During the Cells Unit, students will investigate the smallest unit of life. We will learn to use a microscope and the history behind them. We will understand unicellular organisms and how they survive. We will take "Cellfies" of our own cheek cells under the microscope and compare them to plant cells. We will learn to recognize the basic structures of a cell and describe their functions. This standard, as well as the human body standard are quite large as we learn about the structures and functions of how life works.

Power standards: Provide evidence that all organisms are made of cells and describe how cell structures contribute to providing energy for normal cell function.

State Standards: 6.MS-LS1-1. Provide evidence that all organisms (unicellular and multicellular) are made of cells.

6.MS-LS1-2. Develop and use a model to describe how parts of cells contribute to the cellular functions of obtaining food, water, and other nutrients from its environment, disposing of wastes, and providing energy for cellular processes.

How can an organism with only one cell still meet all 6 characteristics of life?

How do a cells' structures function together?

Cell Craft

Virtual Microscope

Gummy Bear Osmosis Lab

Photosynthesis and Respiration activities

Cell Structures:

Nucleus: the control center of the cell that contains DNA

Cell Membrane: the protective coating of the cell that lets

Cell Wall: the strong structure around cells that aren’t animals

Mitochondria: the organelle in charge of cellular respiration

Chloroplast: the organelle in charge of photosynthesis

Vacuole: The organelle of plant cells that store water

Vesicle: The organelle that transports molecules around and between cells

Cell Functions:

Passive Transport: the transfer of molecules from a high concentration to a low concentration without energy

Diffusion: the transfer of molecules from a high concentration to a low concentration without energy

Osmosis:the transfer of WATER molecules from a high concentration to a low concentration without energy

Active Transport: the way cells use energy (ATP) to move large molecules across the cell membrane.

Photosynthesis: when plants take in carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight and make glucose, and carbon dioxide in their chloroplast

Respiration: When organisms use mitochondria to take in oxygen and glucose to create water, carbon dioxide and ATP (molecule used for energy)