SEEd - Grade 7
Lesson Plans

Strand 7.3: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF LIFE

Living things are made of smaller structures, which function to meet the needs of survival. The basic structural unit of all living things is the cell. Parts of a cell work together to function as a system. Cells work together and form tissues, organs, and organ systems. Organ systems interact to meet the needs of the organism.

Standard 7.3.1

Plan and carry out an investigation that provides evidence that the basic structures of living things are cells. Emphasize that cells can form single-celled or multicellular organisms and that multicellular organisms are made of different types of cells. (LS1.A)

• Cell Day
  Students will collect samples and bring them to school to look at underneath the microscope. They will keep a journal of their observations and drawings and summarize their findings.
• Observing Single Celled Organisms
  Student will observe and describe cellular structures and functions of pond microorganisms. They will identify cell parts and determine how the organisms carry out the functions of life such as extracting energy from food, removing waste, and producing their own food.
• Osmosis In Cells
  Students will read about osmosis and how it affects plant and animal cells and study pictures that show the effects of osmosis on plant and animal cells. Then they will answer questions and label diagrams to show how osmosis will affect plant and animal cells in different salinities.
• Plant and Animals Cells
  This is a commonly done activity to teach microscope skills and the differences between plant and animal cells.
• Using the Microscope
  In this activity, students will learn to care for and focus a microscope.

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http://www.uen.org - in partnership with Utah State Board of Education (USBE) and Utah System of Higher Education (USHE).  Send questions or comments to USBE Specialist - Richard Scott and see the Science - Secondary website. For general questions about Utah's Core Standards contact the Director - Jennifer Throndsen.

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