Observe, Describe, Compare and Contrast Cells

This activity is designed for students to observe and record information about cells from multiple sources. The student will then compare and contrast the cells they observed. Prior to this observation, students are expected to think about where cells are located and how they can be collected. They will then work on the skill of observation and the recording of their observations through detailed drawings. The key concepts of this investigation are that cells make up all living organisms, there are similarities and differences between cells, and cells can be categorized based upon these similarities and differences. Key vocabulary words are cells, prokaryote and eukaryote.

This activity can be modified for various age levels. The inquiry level can be changed simply by giving the cell samples or having the students collect cell samples on their own. The time needed to complete this activity would easily fit into a 45 minute period or could extend over a two day period depending on the number of cells that are observed. Students will need access to microscopes and depending on the level of inquiry, they will need slides, stain, cover slips and various tools for cell collection. The more open inquiry based this activity becomes, the number of skills and concepts they students need to have mastered will increase. Skills needed could include microscope use, staining protocols, sample collection techniques and sample preparation techniques.

This lesson will be used prior to the study of cells and after microscope skills, what is life, and what is the basic unit of life units are covered. For this activity, a microscope must be available. Slides, cover slips, stains and sample collection tools may or may not be necessary. The materials needed depend on the level of inquiry. The students will use their skills of observation and prior knowledge of where cells are located to collect and record information about cells from different sources. The students will use a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the different cells they observed. The diagram will serve as the starting point for teaching the concepts relating to cell types (prokaryote and eukaryote - plant and animal).

Depending on the level of inquiry, the instructor may want to limit the number of sources cells are obtained from or specify certain sources. This activity is a minor modification of the simple cheek cell and onion cell observation lab. The students were instructed what to look at, what to look for, and what to record. Students now look at cells from various organisms and record their observations without being completely dominated by instructions. The creation of the Venn diagram is a new skill I want to employ to further study the cells.

The students work will include written observations, drawings, and Venn diagrams. These will be assessed as well as their microscope use and slide preparation technique.

IV. 9-12 LIFE SCIENCE A. Cells
The student will comprehend that all living things are composed of cells, and that the life processes in a cell are based on molecular interactions. The student will compare and contrast the structures found in typical plant, animal and bacterial cells.