Cell Model
Assignment

 
microscope

Ex-CELL-ent Idea!

The cell is the basic unit of life. Although microscopic, each cell and its parts must be programmed and work correctly to help its living thing function (possibly making up a tissue, organ or organ system). Hence, cells have very important jobs in living things, though they are so tiny! Similarly, the Essential Skills can also be thought of as the basic skills for life. They are important skills to have to ensure success in the world of work. Both cells and Essential Skills require energy, a commitment by all parts, and a time to reflect or rest. By digging a little deeper, the parts of a cell may function together like the nine Essential Skills. Together, though, they result in success.

Part 1: Model Your Knowledge

In partners, you will construct the basic structure of a plant or animal cell. Each group of two will accurately build a three-dimensional cell structure, and place the contents of the cell inside of it (e.g. nucleus, mitochondria, etc.). The parts of the cell should be placed in the correct spot in the cell and should be the correct shape and size, according to your class notes and text. A visit to the library or the Internet may also help in constructing a precise cell. All parts must not be edible. Use the checklist provided to assist you in your creation.

Part 2: Relatives

Using your knowledge of cell parts and the nine Essential Skills, think about how they might be related. For example, the mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell. Is there an Essential Skill that was the powerhouse behind you and your partner as you completed your model? Maybe Thinking Skills? Another example might be the cell membrane and Reading Text. The cell membrane allows substances in/out of the cell.
Similarly, as you researched your cell model through reading books/research, you and your partner would have allowed some points to remain in your head (the useful ones) while others you would have disregarded.

  1. On a separate sheet of paper, relate each of the nine Essential Skills to a part of the cell.
    Briefly explain why you chose to match specific cell parts to specific Essential Skills.
  2. Create a small icon representing each Essential Skill. Go back to your cell model and
    place the icon beside the part of the cell you and your partner felt it most resembled.
    (HINT: You might want to make the icon into a flag to put on your model.)