Making Your Own Cell: Principles of Cellular Biology

Introduction

Dive into cell biology, genetics, and chemistry as students build their own model cells, mirroring the way parts fit together in a functional whole, like constructing a model car or bridge with Legos.

Students explore how cellular components like cell walls and mitochondria work together to sustain life. They study genetics to see how DNA affects cellular functions and behaviors, and apply their knowledge of matter and energy to understand cellular metabolism and life processes. They also examine chemical bonding to learn how molecules within cells interact, forming structures and initiating reactions.

By creating a model cell, students deeply understand cellular biology and the complexity of life at the microscopic level. This expedition enhances their appreciation of life’s building blocks and develops critical thinking skills, providing a solid foundation in essential biological and chemical concepts.

Important Information: This expedition is the Cycle 1 Biology/Health Pathway expedition option

Essential Questions

• In which different ways and how do atoms bond together into molecules?

• How does the arrangement of molecules impact their properties (e.g. biomolecules) that make life as we know it possible?

• What is a cell, what are its components, and how does it function?

• How do the structural characteristics of the chemicals and organelles of a specific cell bring about their function?

• How is the energy of a cell produced?

• How do DNA and RNA transfer information and why is this important?

Learning Objectives

• Identify the different types of chemical bonds and how their variations bring about important chemical properties for molecules

• Explain the different properties and roles of the four main biomolecules in living cells

• Explore the roles of the most common organelles and analyze the differences of organelles that occur in different types of cells 

• Analyze the relationships between the structure of a cell and its components with the specific function it has in a living organism