A Cell is
Like....
(An Internet Project)
The cell is a complex system made up of smaller sub-systems called organelles. Each of these organelles has an important part to play in the cell's life and the life of the organism in which the cell is located. We often try to explain things that are not familiar by comparing them to things that are familiar. We call these comparisons analogies. In order to help you understand the structures and functions of a cell, your group is going to develop an analogy by comparing the cell, most of its organelles, and its major functions to some other system, structure, or event that has parts that work together to produce some product. Once you have researched the structures of the cell and their functions you will design an analogy. The structures and functions that you must research are extensive but they will give you an idea of the many complex actions and forces that occur within every cell. Some examples of possible analogies are provided. Your group will be assigned an analogy. You may choose another, after after all other groups have been assigned an analogy, if you desire. Those listed have been used before. Once you have determined the analogy that you will make, you must complete the Detailed Plan Worksheet explaining your proposed analogy of the cell.
Once you have completed your analogy and have turned in the required Workbook you will prepare a 5 to 10 minute presentation in which you will explain the structures and functions of the cell using the analogy that your group choose. An example of a completed presentation is provided for you to use. Please refer to the standards for grading PowerPoint Presentations.
Cell Structures to be researched:
Each Group will research all of the following organelles of the cell, describe the structure of the organelle and tell what is does in the cell (function):
Cell
Membrane
Nucleus
Cell Wall
Chromosomes
Cytoplasm
Nucleolus
Ribosomes
Nuclear Membrane
Endoplasmic Reticulum
Lysosomes
Mitochondria
Vacuoles/Vesicles
Chloroplasts
Golgi Complex
Cell Functions to be researched:
Each Group will research all of the following functions of the cell, describe the function, and tell why it is important to the cell:
Phospholipid
barrier
Diffusion
Osmosis
Active Transport
Building (Manufacturing) Proteins
Photosynthesis
Cell Respiration
Endocytosis
Exocytosis
Cell Cycle (Mitosis)
Musical Group/Orchestra
School
Team - (specify which)
Amusement park/Zoo
Solar powered Automobile
Factory - (specific)
City Government
Major sports event or concert
Military Base
Business - (specify)
Store - (specify)
Large Hotel or casino
Large restaurant or chain
Grocery store
Automobile
