Cells Cells are the basic building blocks of living things. Each cell has a specific purpose to help an organism survive.

Cell Theory…three rules! All living things are made of cells. Cells are the smallest building block of life. All cells come from other cells.

Parts of a Cell Tiny structures which carryout specific functions in the cell are called organelles.

Most cells have three main organelles… Cell membrane Located outside the cell. Controls substances that enter and exit cells.

Nucleus The cells control center or “brain” which directs all cell activity. Contains nucleic acid and chromosomes which are the instructions for the cell’s function.

Cytoplasm Gel like fluid between the cell membrane and the nucleus. Holds most of the other organelles.

Plant Cells Plant cells have two specific organelles which make them different from animal cells.

Cell wall Layer of non living material which surrounds the outside of a plant cell (including its cell membrane). Protects and supports the plant cell.

Chloroplasts Capture energy from the sun and use it to create food. Causes photosynthesis to occur.

Organelles in the Cytoplasm of Plants and Animal Cells The “mighty” mitochondria “power plants” of the cell. Turn food into energy which the cell uses to carry out its function.

The Endoplasmic Reticulum or “ER” Passages ways which transport materials throughout the cell. The “trains” of the cell.