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Cells & their Parts 

Cells are the basic units of living things and have specialised structures and functions.

Levels of Organisation

Outline the levels of organisation in biology

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The levels of organization in biology refer to the hierarchical structure of living organisms, from the smallest and simplest components to the largest and most complex systems. Here's an outline of the levels of organization in biology, arranged from the simplest to the most complex:

By the end of this section, you should be able to:
 

  • LG1 - Outline the levels of organisation in biology
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  • LG2 - Recall cell theory.
     

  • LG3 - Compare single-celled organisms with multicellular organisms.
    ​

  • LG4 - Observe cells using a light microscope.
     

  • LG5 - Identify structures within cells and describe their function.
     

  • LG6 - Distinguish plant cells from animal cells (or fungal cells).
     

  • LG7 - Briefly describe cell division and its function in both unicellular and multicellular organisms.
     

  • LG8 - Describe how cells differ in terms of their structure and function (specialised cells).
     

  • Review & Consolidation

BIO [7-8]_Cells & their Parts_Levels of Organisation (Diagram).PNG

ACTIVITY 1: Cell Size & Scale

1) Go to the following online simulation - Cell Size & Scale

2) Reflect on your thinking when viewing the simulation by complete the Thinking Questions task. 

Cell Size 
& Scale

(Online Simulation)

Thinking Questions

Cell Theory

Recall cell theory. 

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Cell theory is a fundamental concept in biology that describes the basic structural and functional unit of living organisms. The theory has three main principles, which together form the foundation of our understanding of biology:

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  • All living organisms are composed of cells: Living things can be unicellular (consisting of a single cell) or multicellular (composed of multiple cells). Cells are the basic building blocks of life.
     

  • The cell is the basic unit of structure and function in living organisms: The cell is the smallest unit of life that can perform all the necessary functions for an organism to survive. Each cell has its own set of structures and functions that contribute to the overall operation of the organism.
     

  • All cells come from pre-existing cells: New cells are formed through the division of existing cells. This principle, known as cell division, emphasizes that cells are not spontaneously generated but arise from other cells through processes such as mitosis or meiosis.

Single Cellular vs. Multicellular Organism

Compare single-celled organisms with multicellular organisms.

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Single-celled organisms and multicellular organisms represent two fundamental organizational levels in the biological hierarchy. Here are some key differences between these two types of organisms:

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Single-Celled Organisms:

  • Consist of a single cell.

  • Examples include bacteria and some types of protists.

  • Carry out all life processes within one cell.

 

Multicellular Organisms:

  • Composed of multiple cells

  • Cells are specialized for different functions.

  • Examples include plants, animals, and fungi.

  • Cells work together to form tissues, organs, and systems for more complex functions.
     

ACTIVITY 2: Cellular vs. Multicellular
 

  • PART 1 - Use 2x Frayer Model graphic organisers to complete a teacher lead concept attainment thinking activity for:

    • Single cellular organisms​

    • Multicellular organisms
       

  • PART 2 - Students complete their Frayer Model graphic organiser by constructing definitions and listing characteristics for:

    • Single cellular organisms​

    • Multicellular organisms

Frayer Model
(with Concept Attainment)

Critical & Creative Thinking

Microscopes

Observe cells using a light microscope.

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Light microscopes play a crucial role in observing cells by using visible light to magnify and illuminate specimens. These microscopes use lenses to gather and focus light, allowing scientists to study the details of cells, tissues, and other small structures.

Cell Parts

Identify structures within cells and describe their function.

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Cells are the basic structural and functional units of living organisms. They are the building blocks of the human body and other multicellular and single cellular organisms. Cells contain smaller parts, such as organelles, that help them carry out a range of functions.

Complete this activity as an introduction to the content.

ACTIVITY 3: Cell Parts Jigsaw
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  • Students are divided into "expert" groups - Grouping Template. 
     

  • Expert groups are allocated a cell part to research.
     

  • Each expert groups needs to work together to complete the research template.
     

  • Students are rearranged into "mixed" groups comprising of one representative from each expert group.
     

  • Students take terms sharing their expertise to their mixed groups. 
     

  • Through the sharing process, all students complete the Jigsaw Activity booklet.

Grouping Template (Teacher Use)

BIO_[7-10]_Cell (Unlabelled)_edited.jpg

Research Template

(Expert Groups)

Activity Booklet

(Mixed Groups)

BIO [7-8]_Cells & their Parts (Plant Cell Diagram).png
BIO [7-8]_Cells & their Parts (Animal Cell Diagram).PNG

Common Cell Parts
Below is an outline of some of the structures you would find in a typical cell and their function.
 

Cell Membrane (Plasma Membrane):

  • Outer boundary of the cell.

  • Selectively permeable, regulating the passage of substances
    in and out of the cell.
     

Cytoplasm:

  • Gel-like substance within the cell membrane.

  • Houses various organelles and cellular structures.
     

Nucleus:

  • Control center of the cell.

  • Contains genetic material (DNA) that governs cell activities.
     

Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):

  • Network of membranes.

  • Rough ER has ribosomes and is involved in protein synthesis.

  • Smooth ER is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification.
     

Ribosomes:

  • Small particles composed of RNA and protein.

  • Site of protein synthesis.
     

Golgi Apparatus (Golgi Body):

  • Stack of membranes.

  • Modifies, packages, and sorts proteins for secretion or transport
    within the cell.
     

Mitochondria:

  • Powerhouse of the cell.

  • Site of cellular respiration, producing ATP (energy).
     

Lysosomes:

  • Membrane-bound vesicles containing digestive enzymes.

  • Break down cellular waste and foreign material.
     

Vacuoles:

  • Membrane-bound sacs.

  • Store nutrients, waste products, or pigments, depending on
    the cell type    .
     

Centrioles:

  • Paired cylindrical structures near the nucleus.

  • Involved in cell division (in animal cells).

 

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FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT 1: Cells & their Parts

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Cells & their Parts

(Formative Assessment)

Cells & their Parts

(Answer Key)

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES: Cells & their Parts

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Cell Building Game

Modelled off the game Ramen Fury

Cell Cake Class Party

Build a cell model using cake & candy

Coming
soon

Organelle Character

Create a cartoon character inspired by a cell organelle or part

Plant vs. Animal Cells

Distinguish plant cells from animal cells (or fungal cells).

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Even though cells might seem similar at first, taking a closer look reveals some interesting differences in how they're put together and what they do. Let's explore the unique features that make plant and animal cells special!

ACTIVITY 4: Spot the Difference

1) Examine the animal and plant cell images. Identify features they share and how they differ.

2) Consolidate understanding by completing the Venn Diagram graphic organiser.

Spot the difference 

(Projectable)

Spot the difference

(Printable)

Summary of Differences

 

Below is a summary of how plant and animal (and fungal) cells differ.

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Cell Wall:

  • Plant Cells: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall composed primarily of cellulose. This provides structural support and protection.

  • Animal Cells: Animal cells do not have a cell wall. Instead, they have a flexible cell membrane that surrounds the cell.

  • Fungal Cells: Fungal cells have a cell wall, but it is composed of chitin, which is different from the cellulose found in plant cell walls.


Shape:

  • Plant Cells: Plant cells are typically rectangular in shape and have a fixed, defined structure.

  • Animal Cells: Animal cells are generally round or irregular in shape and are more flexible in terms of structure.

  • Fungal Cells: Fungal cells can vary in shape, but many fungal cells are elongated or circular.
     

Vacuoles:

  • Plant Cells: Plant cells usually have a large central vacuole that stores nutrients, waste products, and helps maintain turgor pressure.

  • Animal Cells: Animal cells may have small vacuoles, but they are not as prominent as in plant cells.

  • Fungal Cells: Fungal cells may have vacuoles, but they are generally smaller and less central than those in plant cells.
     

Chloroplasts:

  • ​Plant Cells: Plant cells contain chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis. Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, the green pigment.

  • Animal Cells: Animal cells do not contain chloroplasts.

  • Fungal Cells: Fungal cells also lack chloroplasts, as they are not capable of photosynthesis.

 

Lysosomes:

  • Plant Cells: Plant cells may have vacuoles with digestive functions, but they lack lysosomes.

  • Animal Cells: Animal cells typically contain lysosomes, which are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes.

  • Fungal Cells: Fungal cells may contain lysosome-like structures involved in digestion.

 

Motility:

  • Plant Cells: Plant cells are generally non-motile. They do not have structures like cilia or flagella for movement.

  • Animal Cells: Animal cells may have structures like cilia or flagella, allowing for cell movement.

  • Fungal Cells: Fungal cells are typically non-motile, similar to plant cells.

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT 2: Cells & their Parts

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Cells & their Parts

(Formative Assessment)

Cells & their Parts

(Answer Key)

BIO_Animal vs Plant.png

Cell Division

Briefly describe cell division and its function in both unicellular and multicellular organisms.

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Cell division is the process where a cell splits into two or more cells. The original cell is called a "parent" cell, whilst the divided cells are called "daughter" cells. 

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Cell division in different organisms:

  • In multicellular organisms: it helps with growth, replacing old or damaged cells, and repairing tissues.

  • In unicellular organisms: it's a way to reproduce and increase their population.

 

Types of cell division:

  • Mitosis: for making identical cells

  • Meiosis: which is essential for sexual reproduction and creating genetic diversity

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When cell division goes bad:

  • Cancer: Uncontrolled and abnormal cell division can lead to tumors. 

  • Errors during cell division: Environmental factors like radiation and certain chemicals can contribute to errors during cell division, such as unequal distribution of genetic material to daughter cells leading to genetic abnormalities.

  • Bacterial disease: Rapid bacterial division, such as during a bacterial infection, can make our bodies sick. 

​

BIO_Cell Division.png

ACTIVITY 5: Cancer Research Task

1) Use the research guide to conduct research about cancer. 

2) Select a mode to present your research such as poster, infographic, PowerPoint, etc.  

Cancer Research Task

(SHE)

Specialised Cells

Describe how cells differ in terms of their structure and function
 

Specialized cells are those that have unique structures and functions tailored to perform specific tasks within the body. These cells have characteristics that enable them to perform their designated functions efficiently. Examples of specialized cells include red blood cells for oxygen transport, muscle cells for contraction, and nerve cells for transmitting signals.

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Red Blood Cell (RBC):

  • Function: Transport oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body and carbon dioxide from the body back to the lungs.

  • Characteristics: Biconcave shape, no nucleus, contains hemoglobin.
     

White Blood Cell (WBC):

  • Function: Part of the immune system, defends the body against infections and foreign substances.

  • Characteristics: Varied types (e.g. neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.), larger than red blood cells, contain a nucleus.
     

Ciliated Cells:

  • Function: Found in the lining of certain organs, involved in moving mucus and particles along the surface of the cells. 

  • Characteristics: Have cilia (hair-like structures) on their surface.
     

Alveoli Cells:

  • Function: Present in the lungs, responsible for gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide) during respiration.

  • Characteristics: Thin-walled cells, surrounded by a network of blood vessels.
     

Sperm Cells:

  • Function: Male reproductive cells, involved in fertilization of an egg.

  • Characteristics: Tail for movement, streamlined shape, contains genetic material (DNA).
     

Neurons:

  • Function: Basic functional units of the nervous system, transmitting signals between different parts of the body.

  • Characteristics: Long projections for transmitting messages. 

BIO_White Blood Cells.jpg

RBC

WBC

BIO_Ciliated cells (real).jpg

Ciliated Cells

BIO_Neuron.jpg

Neuron

ACTIVITY 6: Cell Resume​

 

Imagine you're a specialized cell in the human body. Your task is to research your cell type and then prepare a resume so that you can apply for a job that suits your skills.

Cell Resume (Printable)

Critical & Creative Thinking

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT 2: Specialized Cells

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Specialised Cells

(Formative Assessment)

Specialised Cells

(Answer Key)

Review & Consolidation

Reflect on your achievement of the learning goals. 

 

  • LG1 - Outline the levels of organisation in biology
    ​

  • LG2 - Recall cell theory.
     

  • LG3 - Compare single-celled organisms with multicellular organisms.
    ​

  • LG4 - Observe cells using a light microscope.
     

  • LG5 - Identify structures within cells and describe their function.
     

  • LG6 - Distinguish plant cells from animal cells (or fungal cells).
     

  • LG7 - Briefly describe cell division and its function in both unicellular and multicellular organisms.
     

  • LG8 - Describe how cells differ in terms of their structure and function (specialised cells).

ACTIVITY 7: Review & Consolidation​

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RAFT (Printable)

FORMATIVE
ASSESSMENT 4:
Review Cells

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Cells & their Parts

(Formative Assessment - Answers included)

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