Grade 8 Science
Cell Biology Building Project
Aim:
Students will demonstrate their understanding of the components and functions of either a
plant or animal cell.
Expectations:
With your team of three (3), build a three dimensional cell model. Get creative with materials.
They can include large Styrofoam spheres (pre-cut half spheres can be obtained from a craft
store) or a shoebox for the cell shell, colored or plain Play dough or clear gelatin for the
cytoplasm, colored chenille sticks (pipe cleaners), puff balls, buttons, yarn, pasta and other
items to represent the cellular components. You get the idea! Encourage each other to be
creative and use lots of different materials in your model. Endeavor to choose items to
accurately represent each organelle in size, shape, and location.
Guidelines:
1. Choose a plant or animal cell;
2. Make a list of components you would find in your cell. A plant cell would contain a cell wall,
cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, DNA, ribosomes, chloroplasts, Endoplasmic reticulum
(smooth and rough), Golgi complex, ribosomes, lysosomes, and vacuoles. An animal cell would
contain a cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, DNA, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum
(smooth and rough), ribosomes, Golgi complex, ribosomes, lysosomes, and vacuoles;
3. Select different materials to represent each of the organelles present in that cell. Shape and
size the material to realistically resemble the organelle. Place each in its appropriate location in
cell body;
4. Label each of the components. Print out organelle names, cut them into small labels and use
toothpicks to attach to each label with some tape;
5. Create a separate key that shows each of the cell components and describes its function in
the cell;
6. Use the cell grading rubric to get maximum points for your project
Restrictions:
You may work in groups no larger than three. Ensure that your partner(s) are people that you
know you can work with. Report any problems as they arise and Mr. Dewell will ensure they
are dealt with promptly. If you are building a model, please ensure that no food is used in its
construction.
Assigned:
Due:
II. Assessment:
You’ll be marked as follows:
Group:
Topic:
Criteria
Level 1
(52, 55, 58)
Level 2
(62, 65, 68)
Level 3
(72, 75, 78)
Level 4
(84, 88, 96)
Understanding of
Material
- developing
- developing with
some
inconsistencies
- solid with only a
few errors and/or
omissions
- thorough with
exceptional
insight
Project Quality
- incomplete
- complete with
noticeable gaps
- complete and
strong in quality
and detail
- complete,
superb quality
and exceptional
detail
Contribution
(Individual)
- minimal
- considerable
- strong
- superb
Personal Use of
Work Time
- focus and
organization need
considerable
improvement
- showed some
organization and
focus on task at
hand
- frequently
organized and
focused on task at
hand
- consistently
organized and
focused on work
Personal
Contribution to
Product
- minimal
- considerable
- strong
- superb
Personal
Contribution to
Process
- valued only own
ideas or did not
share ideas
- listened to
others
- encouraged
contributions of
others
- central force in
bringing together
group members
and their ideas
Overall Grade:
_________
Individual Grades:
_______________________
_______________________
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