It is often difficult for students to remember the functions of the cellular organelles because they cannot see, feel, or touch them. Presenting the analogy of the "Cell As A City" helps them realize that each organelle has an essential function. There is also a small section at the bottom of the resource asking the students to recall which cell parts are in a eukaryote, prokaryote, or both.

This worksheet will help your students demonstrate understanding of the concept after a lecture. It could also be used after a traditional organelles lecture, but before you have presented the analogy as a non-graded exercise.

In this unit, students will be given a chance to study and view different types of cells, compare and contrast the features of the major cell types, learn about the function of specialization and differentiation in multicellular organisms, and review/learn the major organelles that will become the foundation of later units.This module was developed by Liz Ashby as part of a Virginia Commonwealth University STEM initiative sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education.

Overview:  I created this lab activity to provide my students with a fun way to learn about the components of the plant and animal cell.  Students will investigate and understand that all living things are composed of one or more cells that support life processes, as described by the cell theory. A key idea includes that the cell structure and organelles support life processes (SOL LS.2b).

A simple assessment or question bank focused on helping students differentiate between the subtleties and functions of various cell types. These questions can be used in a variety of ways for a life science or biology classroom, e.g. as an assessment, a pre-test, or incorporated into a group activity or game.

Video Description:  Have you ever wondered what living in space would do to your body? In this Real World video, learn how NASA scientists study cells on Earth to learn how to protect astronauts from radiation during space flights. Dr. Egle Cekanaviciute describes changes in cells and cell organelles. She also compares quantitative and qualitative data and demonstrates how to calculate the percentage of mutated cells.  Video length: 6:35.NASA eClipsTM is a suite of online student-centered, standards-based resources that support instruction by increasing STEM literacy in formal and nonformal settings.  These free digital and downloadable resources inform and engage students through NASA-inspired, real-world connections.NASA eClips Real World segments (grades 6-8) connect classroom mathematics to 21st Century careers and innovations.  They are designed for students to develop an appreciation for mathematics through real-world problem solving.