Science KS 3 Unit 7A Cells

In this unit pupils:

• learn that cells are the basic units of life and are organised into tissues from which organs are made.
• explore cell structure and differences between plant and animal cells.
• learn about some functions of cells.

In scientific enquiry pupils:

• learn how observations made with a microscope helped ideas about the structure of living things to develop.
• learn to use a microscope safely and effectively.
• make observations using a microscope and record these in drawings.
• compare and interpret information from microscopic observation.
• draw conclusions from observations and explain these using scientific knowledge
• are introduced to the importance of sampling in biological investigations.
• carry out an investigation into the growth of pollen tubes, controlling relevant variables and taking account of those which cannot be controlled.

Much of this work involves the interpretation and analysis of visual information gathered from a variety of sources. The use of enlarged images and microprojection apparatus may support learning for pupils with visual impairment. Extra support may be required by pupils with poor manipulative skills, in preparing materials for microscopic examination, in the effective use of a microscope and when using a computer or other drawing aid to record their observations.

This unit is expected to take approximately 8 hours.

OTHER RESOURCES

• secondary sources to explore cell structure and the variety of cell types in animals and plants, eg CD-ROMs, internet, photographs at high magnification (which may be copied onto overhead transparencies (OHTs)), video clips, other literature
• literature relating to Hooke's work on cells
• microscopes and/or bioviewers
• eyepiece graticules or strips of graticule photographs
• prepared slides showing human cheek cells and a range of human and plant cells, some of which illustrate cell specialisation
• materials for making model cells
• suitable plant material for microscope observation, eg onion, tomato, potato, moss, filamentous green algae, fresh garlic roots, large flowers ripe with pollen and ovules
• photographs or video clips of dividing cells and developing human embryos
• slides of pollen grains to illustrate developing pollen tubes