Homeostasis and the Cell Using
Mathematical Modeling
Team 28
Memorial High School
Julie Carpenter, Mary Hobbs,
Jo Ann Strait, and Betsy Wilkes
Purpose

Enhance student understanding of
cellular processes and mathematical
principles using
– student acquired data
– computational science
Objective

Investigate the processes of cellular
transport:
– Osmosis
– Diffusion

Interpret data and investigate functions
through the use of graphs, equations and
mathematical models.
Module Activities in Biology




Web-based research on cell membrane and how
it acts as a gate for the movement of materials
in and out of the cell.
Hands-on labs demonstrating diffusion and
osmosis using Excel to graph data.
Construction of a Stella model using lab data to
show the dynamic nature of movement of
substances into and out of the cell.
Lab group project to construct or modify Stella
model to explain what happens to cells as the
environment changes, i.e., effect of blood
pressure medication or effect of extended
physical activity.
Module Activities in
Mathematics




Discover the graphs of different functions,
using scatterplots of imported data in Excel, TI
Interactive, and the graphing calculator.
Explore transformations on the graphs, the
resulting effects on the equations, and draw
conclusions on how to write the equations
through the use of mathematical models.
Extend knowledge of diffusion and osmosis
using groundwater and water purification
activities.
Compare actual biology lab results using
various software to determine the best data fit.
Assessment
Pre/post tests on
material in
module
 Lab reports/graph
 Project based
rubric

Requirements
Stella
 Excel
 Internet
 Materials for Experiment
 TI interactive
 Graphing calculator

Relevant Courses
 Biology
I
 Health
 Algebra
I, II
 Environmental Science
 Government and Economics
Relevant Grade Levels
9
10
11