Questions and Answers
1. What is a cell? Describe its structure and functions.
A cell is the basic structural, functional, and biological unit of all living
organisms. It is often called the "building block of life."
Structure:
Cell Membrane: Outer boundary, controls movement of substances.
Cytoplasm: Jelly-like fluid where organelles are suspended.
Nucleus: Control center containing DNA.
Organelles: Specialized structures performing various functions.
Functions:
Provide structure to the body.
Convert nutrients into energy.
Carry out specialized roles (e.g., reproduction, growth, repair).
2. Explain the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Feature Prokaryotic Cells Eukaryotic Cells
Nucleus No true nucleus (DNA is free-floating) Has a defined
nucleus
Organelles No membrane-bound organelles Has membrane-bound
organelles
Example Bacteria, Archaea Plants, Animals, Fungi, Protists
Size Smaller Larger
Complexity Simple Complex
3. Describe the role of the cell membrane and cytoplasm in a cell.
Cell Membrane:
Semi-permeable layer.
Controls what enters and leaves the cell.
Helps maintain the cell’s shape and integrity.
Cytoplasm:
Jelly-like substance filling the cell.
Holds organelles in place.
Site of many biochemical reactions.
4. What are organelles? Give examples and describe their functions.
Organelles are specialized structures within a cell that perform specific
functions.
Examples:
Nucleus: Controls cell activities and stores genetic material.
Mitochondria: Powerhouse of the cell, produces energy (ATP).
Ribosomes: Site of protein synthesis.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Transports materials (Rough ER with
ribosomes, Smooth ER without).
Golgi Apparatus: Packages and distributes proteins.
Lysosomes: Breaks down waste and old organelles.
Chloroplasts (in plants): Site of photosynthesis.
Vacuole: Stores water, nutrients, and waste (large in plant cells).
5. Compare and contrast plant and animal cells.
Feature Plant Cell Animal Cell
Cell Wall Present Absent
Chloroplasts Present Absent
Vacuole Large central vacuole Small or absent
Shape Usually rectangular Usually round
Energy Makes food via photosynthesis Depends on other
organisms for food
Diagrams
📒 (Do these in your notebook)
Draw a labeled diagram of a plant cell and an animal cell.
Illustrate the structure of a cell membrane and label its components
(phospholipid bilayer, proteins, cholesterol, etc.).
Project Work
Model of a Cell:
Create a 3D model of a plant or animal cell using:
Clay / Play dough / Paper / Cardboard
Use eco-friendly materials (No thermocol/styrofoam)
Label the parts:
Cell membrane
Cytoplasm
Nucleus
Mitochondria
Vacuole
Ribosomes
ER
Golgi Apparatus
Chloroplast (for plant cell)
List of Cell Organelles and Their Functions:
Organelle Function
Nucleus Controls the cell, contains DNA
Mitochondria Produces energy
Ribosomes Makes proteins
ER (Rough/Smooth) Transports substances
Golgi Apparatus Packages proteins
Lysosomes Digests waste
Vacuole Stores water and nutrients
Cell Membrane Regulates entry/exit of substances
Cell Wall (plants) Provides structure and protection
Chloroplast (plants) Conducts photosynthesis
Let me know if you'd like a printable version or a guide for your model
design!
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Diagram 1
Diagram 2