Cell Structure and Function
Subject Area: Science
Lesson Objective
In this lesson, students will clarify information about cell structure and function by building
graphic organisers using Inspiration®.
Key Stages: 3-4 (ages 13-16)
Teacher Instructions
1. Explain to students that they will be building graphic organisers to clarify information
about cell parts and their structure and function. Students can use information from class
notes, their textbook, models, Internet resources or whatever other materials you make
available to them.
2. Have students work individually or in pairs to build an idea map or concept map about
the parts of a cell. Remind students that there is no single “right” way to build their
graphic organiser; rather, they should organise information in a way that helps them
clarify the concepts. Encourage students to choose images that help them associate each
cell part with either its structure, function, or both. For example, a student might choose a
shipping box to represent the golgi apparatus, since it can be thought of as the packaging
and processing center of the cell.
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Cell Structure and Function
3. Direct students to add notes containing details about the function(s) of each cell part.
4. Assign pairs or groups a specific cell part to study in more detail. Ask students to build a
concept map that details the structure and function of that particular cell part. Remind
students that a concept map uses linking words to show relationships between concepts.
As they build their concept maps, students can take advantage of built-in Linking Phrases
through the Link menu.
5. Compile all of the concept maps from each student or pair of students in one location.
Using the Hyperlink tool, students can link a concept map for each cell part to their
original diagram.
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©2010 Inspiration Software, Inc.
Cell Structure and Function
Assessment
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Check to see that students have included the cell parts that they are expected to learn, as
well as their functions, in the initial diagrams. Students should also have information
organised logically with links showing correct relationships and hierarchies.
Check concept maps for evidence of original work, demonstrating a student’s own way of
organising information. Concept maps should show sufficient detail, and links and
linking phrases should correctly identify relationships.
Lesson Adaptations
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Specify the names and/or number of cell parts expected for the diagrams.
Extend the activity by having students compare and contrast plant and animal cells. The
templates Cell Comparison.ist or Compare and Contrast.ist from Inspiration
Starter>Templates>Science can help students get started.
Students can use Inspiration’s Presentation Manager to develop a presentation about the
structure and function of their assigned cell part.
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