Study Guides

Unit Summary

This unit explores cell structures, their functions, and differences between plant and animal cells. It includes adaptations of unicellular organisms and the organisation of multicellular organisms. Skills in using safe techniques, recording data, and evaluating methods in lab work are developed.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to identify common structures of animal cells and describe what these structures do.

Key Notes

• Cells have a 3D shape (not 2D as they often appear in textbooks).
• Common structures of animal cells can be shown in diagrams.
• These structures include the cytoplasm, cell membrane, nucleus and mitochondria.
• Each structure in an animal cell has a specific function.
• Cells can be represented using 2D and 3D scientific models.

Vocabulary To Learn

• cell membrane: The cell membrane surrounds the cell and controls what substances enter and leave the cell.
• cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the jelly-like substance inside a cell where the chemical reactions of the cell take place.
• nucleus: The nucleus contains DNA, which stores information that controls the activities of the cell.
• mitochondria: Mitochondria use food and oxygen as fuel to provide energy for the cell in a process called cellular respiration.
• model: Scientists use models as simpler representations of complex things and ideas.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Cells are 2D (as they are often depicted in diagrams).

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Multicellular and unicellular organisms Study Guide
• Observing cells with a light microscope Study Guide
• Plant cell structures and their functions Study Guide
• Preparing and observing a microscope slide Study Guide
• Specialised cells are adapted for their functions Study Guide
• The common processes of all living organisms Study Guide