Unit 04
Cell Structure and Cellular Organelles: The Animal Cell
Animal cells are the basic building blocks of animal life. Each animal cell contains specialized structures called
organelles that perform specific functions necessary for the cell to live and thrive. The nucleus acts as the
control center, storing genetic material (DNA) and directing cell activities. The cytoplasm is a jelly-like
substance that fills the cell and holds organelles in place. The cell membrane surrounds the cell, controlling
what enters and leaves. Mitochondria are the "powerhouses" of the cell, producing energy through cellular
respiration. Other important organelles include the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which helps with protein and
lipid synthesis, the Golgi apparatus, which packages and ships proteins, and lysosomes, which break down
waste. Understanding the function and structure of these organelles is essential for studying life at the cellular
level.
Fill in the Blank: Fill in the blank with the correct words.
1.
The _____________ is known as the control center of the animal cell.
2.
The _____________ produces energy for the cell by breaking down food molecules.
3.
The _____________ surrounds the cell and controls what enters and exits.
4.
The _____________ is a jelly-like substance that fills the space between organelles.
5.
The _____________ packages and ships proteins throughout the cell.
Word Bank: cytoplasm, mitochondria, nucleus, Golgi apparatus, cell membrane
Multiple Choice Questions: Choose the correct answer from the choices for each question.
1.
Which organelle is responsible for breaking
down waste materials in the cell?
4.
(A) Cytoplasm
(B) Mitochondria
(C) Nucleus
(D) Cell membrane
(A) Nucleus
(B) Lysosome
(C) Ribosome
(D) Endoplasmic reticulum
2.
What is the main function of the cell
membrane?
(A) Producing energy
(B) Storing DNA
(C) Regulating what enters and exits the cell
(D) Shipping proteins
3.
Where is DNA stored in an animal cell?
5.
The endoplasmic reticulum is mainly involved
in:
(A) Energy production
(B) Waste breakdown
(C) Protein and lipid synthesis
(D) DNA replication
Which organelle is responsible for producing
most of the cell’s energy?
(A) Mitochondria
(B) Golgi apparatus
(C) Nucleus
(D) Lysosome
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Open-Ended Questions: Answer the following questions in complete sentences.
1.
Describe the function of the mitochondria in an animal cell.
2.
Explain how the cell membrane helps maintain homeostasis in the cell.
3.
Compare and contrast the functions of the nucleus and the Golgi apparatus in an animal cell.
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