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 use a light microscope to observe cells.

Key Notes

• All organisms are made up of living building blocks called cells.
• Cells are usually too small to see with the unaided eye.
• The cells that make up tissue on a slide can be observed using a light microscope.
• Changing the magnification and focus of a light microscope enables cell structures to be observed.

Vocabulary To Learn

• Cell: A cell is the smallest living building block of a living organism.
• Lens: A lens is a piece of curved glass which focuses light to alter the size of the image.
• Light microscope: A light microscope is a piece of equipment that uses lenses to focus light and enlarge the object.
• Focus: Adjusting the focus of a lens makes an image clearer.
• Magnification: Increasing the magnification of an object makes it look bigger.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Cells are inert 'building blocks' like bricks. Microscopes can see structures as small as molecules.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Animal cell structures and their functions Study Guide
• Multicellular and unicellular organisms 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