The Cell WebQuest

Introduction

All living things are made of cells. The cell is the basic unit of structure and function of all living things. To understand how any living thing works (including yourself), you have to understand how the cells work. Most medicines that we take to make us feel better are actually working at the cellular level. If the cells are doing well, then the organism is usually okay. Topics such as cancer research, preventing HIV infection, stem cell research, cloning, etc. are all about cell research. 

The Task

In this assignment your group will investigate cells and prepare a presentation on your findings. Your presentation should include the following:

• original computer-generated drawings of all the important cell parts along with a description of each

• original computer-generated drawings of the cell membrane including specialized parts and an explanation of the various roles of the cell membrane

• a collection of micrographs of different types of cells with a general description of each

• an explanation of the organization of living things (cell, tissue, organ, etc.) that includes original computer-generated drawings

• an explanation of the differences between plant cells and animal cells

The Process and Resources

Step 1: Begin by visiting the sites below and completing the cell worksheet. (Each member of the group should complete this part on his/her own.) Note well! This worksheet is only meant as a guide. You may include additional cell parts and information. This worksheet is just a minimum.

Cell Biology

Cells Alive  

Animal Cells

Cell Structure and Processes

Ask Jeeves about Cells

Step 2: "Meet" with your group to compare notes and discuss your findings. Please "meet" in the KVHS Chat Room or use the Threaded Discussion provided for this purpose. You might want to put together a new "group worksheet" once you have decided on the best findings.

Step 3: Decide within your group how you will present your project (PowerPoint, web page, etc.) and how to best get the job done. All members of the group are responsible for contributing a fair share, but not everyone needs to do the same thing. See the Time Sheet that must be submitted along with your project.

Step 4: Go to work!

Teacher Tips

1. As you identify the various cell parts on the worksheet, it would probably be a good idea to label them as A (for animal only), P (for plant only), or B (found in both plants and animals). 

2. If you want an "A" on this project, click on the link below in Evaluation. Make a copy of the rubric and refer to it as you are working on different parts of this project.

3. I will be glad to help you put your individual parts of the project together. Once you decide on what type of format you will be using, let me know and we can work out how to assemble it.

Evaluation

Click here to see a Rubric for this project.

Conclusion

Once you have completed this project you should feel good about several things:

1. You now have a great understanding of cells. This is important information if you want to understand Biology because all living things are made up of cells.

2. You have learned how to work together online and collaborate on a project.

3. You have created a project that is worth sharing with other students who also need to learn about cells.

4. You have received additional practice with some different computer applications and feel better prepared to use these applications in future projects.