Learning Activity

Wow! Let's Explain Cells

Subject Area

Science

Grade(s)

7

Overview

In this learning experience, students will describe the characteristics and structures unique to prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Students will utilize their learning from the associated during activity to explain the visual representations of different cells and determine whether they are prokaryotic or eukaryotic. Students will record their findings on a Venn diagram.

This learning activity was created as a result of the ALEX - Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) Resource Development Summit.

Science (2015) Grade(s): 7

SC15.7.2

Gather and synthesize information to explain how prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ in structure and function, including the methods of asexual and sexual reproduction.

Unpacked Content

UP:SC15.7.2

Vocabulary

  • Cell
  • Prokaryotic cells
  • Eukaryotic cells
  • Structure
  • Function
  • Asexual reproduction
  • Sexual reproduction
  • Mitosis
  • Meiosis
  • Chromosome
  • DNA

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Prokaryotic cells are microscopic, single-celled organisms that have neither a distinct nucleus with a membrane nor other specialized organelles.
  • Prokaryotes include the bacteria and cyanobacteria.
  • The function of prokaryotic cells.
  • The reproductive methods of prokaryotic cells.
  • Eukaryotic cells consist of a cell or cells in which the genetic material is DNA in the form of chromosomes contained within a distinct nucleus.
  • Eukaryotes include all living organisms other than the eubacteria and archaebacteria.
  • The function of eukaryotic cells.
  • The reproductive methods of eukaryotic cells.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Obtain information about cells, including structure, function, and method of reproduction, from published, grade-level appropriate material from multiple sources.
  • Determine and describe whether the gathered information is relevant.
  • Use information to explain how prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells differ in structure and function, as well as method of reproduction.

Scientific and Engineering Practices

Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

Crosscutting Concepts

Structure and Function

Phase

After/Explain/Elaborate
Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives

Students will describe the characteristics and structures of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Students will utilize their analysis of visual representations of different cells and determine similarities and differences between the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Activity Details

The students will use their completed index cards from the associated during learning activity to complete the Venn Diagram. The teacher can print out the provided Venn Diagram for students or have students access it digitally. The students will use the Venn diagram to explain the similarities and differences between prokaryote and eukaryote cells.  https://www.canva.com/design/DAFpSivDiuM/XvVKXhS29ORuZaEI8ouXgg/view?utm_content=DAFpSivDiuM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink 

Assessment Strategies

Assessment Strategies

The teacher will review each student’s Venn diagram to determine if the students were able to describe the differences between the two types of cells.

The students will complete the following 3-2-1 writing prompt using the information from their completed Venn Diagram.

3 Things I learned in this activity.

2 Things I want to learn more about prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells.

1 question I have about prokaryotic or eukaryotic cells.

The teacher will collect each student's Venn diagram and 3-2-1 writing to evaluate student learning.

Acceleration

The students can utilize Alabama Virtual Library to explore more information about cell organelles. (Britannica School: Middle has many available resources on this topic.)

Intervention

The teacher will create a small group to reteach the different characteristics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells to students.

The students will use a T-Chart graphic organizer, rather than a Venn diagram, to determine the differences between the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

The teacher will allow students extended time to complete the assessment.

Approximate Duration

Total Duration

16 to 30 Minutes

Related Learning Activities

Learning Activity (Before)

Wow! All About Cells: Part 1

Learning Activity (During)

Wow! Let's Explore Cells

Learning Activity (After)

Wow! Let's Explain Cells

Background and Preparation

Background / Preparation

Teacher Preparation:

  • The teacher can print out the provided Venn diagram for students or the students can access the Venn diagram digitally.
  • Complete the associated before and during activities prior to implementing this activity.

Student preparation:

  • Students will need prior knowledge of the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Materials and Resources

Materials and Resources

  • Each student will need a copy of the provided Venn diagram or digital access to the Venn diagram.
  • Pencils/pens
  • Students will need completed note cards from the during activity.

Digital Tools / Resources

Venn Diagram (Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells)
https://www.canva.com/design/DAFpSivDiuM/XvVKXhS29ORuZaEI8ouXgg/view?utm_conten…

Approved Date

Owner (Author)

Tina Lewis
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