Cell Organelles

Objective:

Students will be able to describe the locations and functions of 7 major organelles (chromosome, nucleus, cell membrane, mitochondria, cytoplasm, cell wall, and chloroplast).

Materials:

• Building Blocks of Animals and Plants books, specifically The Cell Cycle

• Cell Article

• Optional: Simplified Cell Article

• Organelles Table

• Organelles Table Answer Key

• Pencils

Differentiation Considerations:

Use the Simplified Cell Article for one or more students depending on their reading needs. This article is written at a lower Lexile level and is more accessible for readers.

Consider creating a modified activity where students match the function of each organelle instead of listing it. To do this, cut apart a copy of the answer key, mix up the pieces, and have students sort them according to the information they find in the article.

Consider creating a challenge activity by asking students to identify and describe other organelles not included in the table. Students can reread the Cell Article to find the information needed to add these details to their table.

Procedures:

1. Download and print the cell article, simplified cell article, organelles table, and organelles table answer key from the downloads section.
2. Provide students a copy of the Cell Article. You will only need the “Inside a Living Cell” section for this activity. While reading, highlight or otherwise draw attention to the 7 major organelles (chromosome, nucleus, cell membrane, mitochondria, cytoplasm, cell wall, and chloroplast).
3. Next, students will work independently (or in pairs, if you choose) to complete the Organelles Table. Students should refer to The Cell Cycle book as well as the Cell Article as they work.
4. After students complete the table, return to the whole group setting to review each organelle, if it is found in animal or plant cells, and its functions.

Note: We suggest passing back completed tables to students so they can refer to them as notes throughout the remainder of this study.