Cells 6th Grade Science

Cells The cell is one of the most basic units of life. There are millions of different types of cells.  There are cells that are organisms themselves, such as microscopic amoeba and bacteria cells.  And there are cells that only function when part of a larger organism, such as the cells that make up your body.  The cell is the smallest unit of life in our bodies.  In the body, there are brain cells, skin cells, liver cells, stomach cells, and the list goes on.  All of these cells have unique functions and features.  Some have recognizable similarities.  A plant cell from the leaf of a poplar tree A human red blood cell

Animal Cell

Plant Cell

Cell Organelles Organelles are found in both plant and animal cells. Organelles are the objects located inside the cell that carry out the activities in the cell and keep it alive.

Cell Wall The cell wall is found surrounding plant cells only This surrounds the cell membrane of a plant cell and gives the cell protection and support. The cell wall is a rigid structure outside the cell membrane

Chloroplast Chloroplasts are found in plant cells only. These organelles contain chlorophyll which is used in the “food making process”, or photosynthesis, and give the plant a green color when exposed to light. A plant's chloroplasts convert light energy into chemical energy

Cell Membrane The cell membrane is found in both plant and animal cells. The cell membrane is the part of the cell that surrounds and protects it. It regulates what can enter and leave the cell. The cell membrane allows only certain materials to move in and out of the cell

Cytoplasm Cytoplasm is found in both plant and animal cells. This is a jelly like substance inside the cell in which the organelles “float”. This is the cells environment. Cytoplasm is the gel-like material inside the cell (but unlike gelatin it does flow)

Nucleus A nucleus is found in both plant and animal cells. The nucleus controls growth and reproduction. It uses DNA to direct cell activities. The Boss

where energy is released Mitochondria Mitochondria are found in both plant and animal cells. They are the “powerhouse” of the cell. They produce energy for the cell. The mitochondria are where energy is released

Golgi Bodies Golgi bodies are found in both plant and animal cells. They package materials and store them or move them around and out of the cell. Golgi Bodies package and move proteins

Vacuole Vacuoles are found in both plant and animal cells. Vacuoles are an expanding and contracting organelle that stores water, nutrients, and wastes. Like your suitcase, a vacuole is a temporary storage space for the cell.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Known as E.R., they are found in both plant and animal cells. These are passageways from the nucleus that transport proteins through the cell. Rough E.R. has ribosomes attached. Smooth E.R. does not have ribosomes attached. The ER is like a system of conveyors moving materials from one place to another

Ribosomes Ribosomes are found in both plant and animal cells. They make proteins for the cell.

Lysosomes Lysosomes are found in animal cells. They recycle worn out products. A Lysosome acts as a wrecking ball that breaks apart wastes or worn out cell parts.

Cell Quiz Click on the picture for the quiz.