Cells

The purpose of this lab is to assist you in learning the basic structure and function of cells in both plants and animals. Some cell structures (organelles) are the same amongst plants and animals while some are unique to one or the other.

You will go to the following website: http://www.glencoe.com/sites/common_assets/science/virtual_labs/E08/E08.html

You will follow the instructions and work through the simulation as instructed in the lab. As you click on each organelle, you will use the clues to identify the name of the organelle and the function of the organelle. You will also identify whether it belongs in an animal cell, plant cell or both.

As you perform the simulation, you will record your results in the table below (use another color font for your answers). If a cell type doesn't contain the cell listed in the table, please indicate NONE in that part of the table.

Once you have completed the lab activity and the table, you will answer the remaining journal questions below. Please answer all questions in another color font.

Save your file as .doc or .docx and upload it into eCampus in the proper lab section for grading. Do NOT copy and paste it into the text box on eCampus.

Structure/Function Animal Cell Structure Plant Cell Structu

Outer boundary of cell

Contains genetic material (DNA)

Long, uncoiled strands of DNA

Watery, gel like substance

Channels that move materials

Site of protein synthesis

Package and move proteins

Digest waste

Storage centers

Rigid, outer cellulose cover

Powerhouse of the cell

Site of photosynthesis

Journal Questions:

1. How are cells similar to a factory or business? List 5 similarities.
2. Explain how animal and plant cells are similar (give at least 2 supporting facts).
3. Explain how animal and plant cells are different (give at least 2 supporting facts).
4. A solar cell is a device that collects energy from the sun to make electricity. What part of a plant cell is most similar to a solar cell? Explain why you chose this answer.
5. Why is the nucleus considered to be the "brain" of the cell?
6. Exploring the South American rainforest, a scientist discovers a mysterious organism and brings it back to the lab for further study. What cell characteristics should the scientist examine to tell whether the organism is an animal or plant? Why?