Introduction
Today we will learn about the basic units of life. All living things are composed of cells. Cells are the smallest unit of life, and can be categorized by two types of cells. Eukaryotic cells contain a nucleus while Prokaryotic cells do not contain a nucleus. There are different structures that make these two types of cells unit that we will cover through this WebQuest.
Task
Students will.
- Understand the similarities and differences between the two types of cells.
- Learn about the basic units of life.
- Increase knowledge on what makes a living thing, living.
At the end of the WebQuest, students will write a summary of the similarities and differences between the two types of cells and create an illustration of a Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cell. You will explore the provided articles, watch the short clips, and then complete your assignment.
Process
Prokaryotic Cells
Prokaryotes are organisms whose cells lack a nucleus and other organelles. Prokaryotes are divided into two distinct groups: the bacteria and the archaea, which scientists believe have unique evolutionary lineages.
Most prokaryotes are small, single-celled organisms that have a relatively simple structure. Prokaryotic cells are surrounded by a plasma membrane, but they have no internal membrane-bound organelles within their cytoplasm. The absence of a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles differentiates prokaryotes from another class of organisms called eukaryotes.
Most prokaryotes carry a small amount of genetic material in the form of a single molecule, or chromosome, of circular DNA. The DNA in prokaryotes is contained in a central area of the cell called the nucleoid, which is not surrounded by a nuclear membrane. Many prokaryotes also carry small, circular DNA molecules called plasmids, which are distinct from the chromosomal DNA and can provide genetic advantages in specific environments.
Eukaryotic Cells
Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus enclosed within the nuclear membrane and form large and complex organisms. Protozoa, fungi, plants, and animals all have eukaryotic cells. They are classified under the kingdom Eukaryota.
They can maintain different environments in a single cell that allows them to carry out various metabolic reactions. This helps them grow many times larger than the prokaryotic cells.
The features of eukaryotic cells are as follows:
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Eukaryotic cells have the nucleus enclosed within the nuclear membrane.
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The cell has mitochondria.
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Flagella and cilia are the locomotory organs in a eukaryotic cell.
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A cell wall is the outermost layer of the eukaryotic cells.
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The cells divide by a process called mitosis.
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The eukaryotic cells contain a cytoskeletal structure.
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The nucleus contains a single, linear DNA, which carries all the genetic information.
Evaluation
Conclusion
In biology, the smallest unit that can live on its own and that makes up all living organisms and the tissues of the body. A cell has three main parts: the cell membrane, the nucleus, and the cytoplasm. The cell membrane surrounds the cell and controls the substances that go into and out of the cell. The nucleus is a structure inside the cell that contains the nucleolus and most of the cell’s DNA. It is also where most RNA is made. The cytoplasm is the fluid inside the cell. It contains other tiny cell parts that have specific functions, including the Golgi complex, the mitochondria, and the endoplasmic reticulum. The cytoplasm is where most chemical reactions take place and where most proteins are made. The human body has more than 30 trillion cells.
Credits
Teacher Page
Target Audience : 9th Grade Biology
Unit : Cell Structure