Organelles & Their Functions

Performance Expectation

MS-LS1-2: Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways the parts of cells contribute to the function.

In Student-Friendly Words...

I can explain what the different parts of a cell do and how they work together to keep the cell alive.

Big Ideas

Cells contain different parts called organelles.
Each organelle has a specific job that helps the cell survive.
All of the organelles work together so the cell can function as a whole.
Plant and animal cells share many organelles, but each also has unique structures.

Interactive Learning

Watch & Learn

Introduction to Cells: The Grand Cell Tour

Comparing Cell Types Review: Animal, Plant, Bacterial, Archaeal, Fungal, and "Protist" Cells

Plant and Animal Cells for Kids

Cell City

Comparing Plant and Animal Cells

The Science of Cells | The Magic School Bus

Ear Worms

Cells Cells - Parts of the Cell Rap

The Parts of a Cell Song

The Parts of Cells | Rap Video by SquidBooks

Real-World Connections

Your Body

Every cell in your body has tiny structures that work together to keep the cell alive and functioning.

Food & Energy

Your cells need energy to move, grow, repair themselves, and carry out their jobs.

Medicine

Researchers use their knowledge of cell organelles to develop new medicines, vaccines, and medical treatments.

Agriculture

Plant scientists study chloroplasts and cell walls to grow healthier crops that can better survive drought, pests, and disease.

Take It Further

Design Your Own Cell Model

Create a model of a plant or animal cell using drawings, clay, recycled materials, or digital tools. Label the organelles and explain the job of each one.

Page updated

Report abuse