The Animal Cell

Grade: 6

Michigan Science Curriculum Standard 1.0, Cells: Learning Expectation 1.2, explore and compare the organelles of different cell types. This enables students to identify and explain the function of organelles within animal cells.

 

Introduction: All living things are made up of cells. Each cell contains certain parts called organelles that have specific functions within the cell. Cells aid in reproduction, healing of wounds, and the growth of living organisms, to mention a few. At times, cells multiply uncontrollably and cancer results. This exercise will focus on the organelles found in animal cells. 

Task:

In this activity, you will acquire the knowledge that will enable you to identify, label and explain the function of cellular organelles, if presented with an artist's rendition of an animal cell. 

Visit the following websites during this activity to help you learn the structure and function of the organelles of an animal cell.

Explore an animal cell

The Virtual Cell

Cells alive 

Animal Cell Structure  

Animal Cell Simulation 

Assignment:

You are to create a 3D animal cell model to help you understand the structure and function of the cell organelles you have been studying.  Your model should represent cross sections of an animal cell, with the appropriate 3D organelles on top.  You will be graded on the appearance of your cell, whether or not the appropriate organelles are present, and your ability to identify the organelles and define function.  

Required Organelles

Cytoplasm                   ER                              Ribosomes                   Mitochondria              Vacuole       

Lysosomes                  Chloroplasts                Cell Wall                     Cell Membrane           

Nucleus                       Nuclear Membrane     Chromosomes             Golgi Apparatus          Nucleolus

Here are some examples of creative models of an animal cell.

Post: 
Now that you have learned about the animal cell, use your prior knowledge about a plant cell and discuss the difference between an animal cell and plant cell.

Extension

Test your knowledge of the cell by matching each structure with it's function by dragging the organelles to their proper spaces here. 

Practice Quiz

 

6th Grade Map Skills

Grade: 6th     

Subject: Social Studies    

State Standard: The World In Spatial Terms
Students will study the relationships between, people, places, and environments by using information that is in a geographic (spacial) context.  They will engage in mapping analyzing the information to explain the patterns and relationships they reveal both between and among people, their cultures, and the natural environment.

The game links below will help you correctly label your map as well as help you study for your "Pre-Columbian America" final assessment. First print out the map below.  Then use the links below the map to help you label your map. After you complete your map, use the websites to help you study for your final test.  The sites will help prepare you for your final exam.  If you are able to complete the games correctly, then you know you are prepared to take the final exam.  

South Africa Map Game

Central America Map Skills

Latin America

Who were the Maya?

Access Calliope Magazine via your Cobblestone Online classroom subscribtion and read, The Ancient Maya.  Throughout the reading you will learn about the pantheon of the Maya gods and Maya worshipping practices, and will discover the connection between Maya social structure and their religion.

After reading answer the question:  What were the beliefs and social structure of the Maya?

How do different cultures inhabit the same land?

Now that we have learned about different explorers and their discoveries, write a paragraph explaining how different cultures inhabit the same land. 

Sell the Cell!

It is your chance to justify why cell phones should be allowed in class.  List ways you could use your cell phone in class as a learning tool.