Introduction
Introduction
In our last lesson we identified that all living things are made up of tiny units called cells that can be seen under a microscope.
However, what are cells made of?
In today’s lesson we will be exploring the answer to this question.
Just as the human body is made up of organs, cells are made up of organelles. You will have the opportunity to explore the common organelles and learn about the functions they perform within the cell. You will then take a deeper look at one of the most fundamental processes that occurs in all cells – protein synthesis.
A tour deep inside our cells©
Author: Melissa Abas
Student of Southern Cross University
Task
Task
This WebQuest is divided into 2 sections. You will need to complete both sections. Section 1 must be completed independently. Section 2 can be completed with your designated Lab groups.
Section 1 – The cell-factory analogy
Begin by watching the video on Cell structure and Function. You will be presented with questions at the end of this video. Before you begin to answer these questions, you must play around with the interactive cell map.
Section 2 – Protein synthesis in cells
You will then apply the information you have learnt to construct a flowchart that describes the process of protein synthesis by using an online tool called Createy. Even though you are working in groups for this section, each group member must submit their own flowchart. You are however encouraged to exchange ideas, share information and review your group member’s work by using the interactive features available in the Createy tool.
Final comments:
You must complete this WebQuest by the end of this lesson. Please use the evaluation page to identify the quality of work that is expected from you.
Process
Section 1 - The cell-factory analogy
Begin by watching the video on Cell structure and Function:
Before attempting to answer the reflection questions please refer to following link and play around with the interactive cell map as it will help you with your answers:
Interactive cell map http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/cells/insideacell/
Answer the following question in your workbook:
How is a cell like a factory?
- Consider the list you generated to describe the needs of a factory. Explain how the cell is like a factory. Include the role of each organelle and determine how it fits the cell-factory analogy.
- Identify any organelles that do not fit the cell-factory analogy and explain why you think they do not fit.
Respond in aproximately 400 words.
Section 2 - The cell process of protein synthesis
You are now required to use the information you have learnt today to design a flow chart that outlines the process of protein synthesis inside the cell. To do this you will use the Creately internet tool.
Watch the tutorial to learn how to use the Creately tool.
Click on the following link to begin using the tool to construct your flow chart.
https://creately.com/app/?tempID=gc7qvpsj1#
Use the image below to guide you through the process of protein sythesis
Remember to refer to the evaluation page to identify the quality of work that is expected for each section.
Evaluation
Evaluation
| Beginning 1 | Developing 2 | Very Good 3 |
Exemplary 4 |
|
| Reflection |
Identifies some of the organelles mentioned in the video and fails to connect their function to cell-factory analogy. |
Identifies most of the organelles mentioned in the video and offers a limited connection to the cell-factory analogy. |
Discusses most of the organelles mentioned in the video and provides adequate reasons as to how they may or may not fit into the cell-factory analogy. |
Discusses all the organelles mentioned in the video and provides insightful reasons as to how they may or may not fit into the cell-factory analogy. |
| Protein Synthesis Flowchart |
Outlines some of the steps that occur during protein synthesis inside the cell. Some organelles are identified but no description of function is provided |
Outlines some of the steps that occur during protein synthesis inside the cell in the correct sequence, and correctly identifies some of the organelles and gives a brief description of their function. |
Outlines most of the steps that occur during protein synthesis inside the cell in the correct sequence, and correctly identifies most the organelles and gives a brief description of their function. |
Outlines all the steps that occur during protein synthesis inside the cell in the correct sequence, and correctly identifies all the organelles and gives a brief description of their function. |
Conclusion
Conclusion
Congratulations. You have just learnt about cell organelles and how they function in the cell. You are well on your way to becoming a cell biologist. Next time you look at your hands or before you bite into an apple, remember that they are both made up of tiny little cells that operate like little factories working hard to produce proteins.
Credits
Credits
A tour deep inside our cells © was created by Melissa Abas, a student of Southern Cross University.
References:
Creately. (n.d.). Tools, Videos and Resources to Create Flowcharts Online. Retrieved from Creately: http://creately.com/diagram-type/flowchart
University of Utah Health Sciences. (2014). Inside a Cell. Retrieved from Learn Genetics: http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/cells/insideacell/
wanakscience's channel on YouTube. (2012, November 23). Cell Structure and Function. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4L_QO4WKtM