My Grade 8 Science class has been learning all about Cells & Body Systems (you can check out their blog here) and lately we've been discussing the difference between Plant Cells & Animal Cells. After working with the appropriate vocabulary and completing labeled illustrations, we decided to create 3D models of the different types of cells... using edible materials!!
As a class my students brainstormed an ingredient list, set a budget, and put themselves into groups of 4. We even went shopping for the ingredients as a class during our math period! Today was the physical creation of the cells and I can say that they turned out pretty darn good... and delicious! Students were required to create a model that showcased a cell with:
- Cell Membrane
- Cytoplasm
- Nucleus
- Mitochondria
- Vacuole
- Endoplasmic Reticulum
- Cell Wall (for plant cells)
- Chloroplasts (for plant cells)
I also asked that each group submit a written legend so that their model is clearly understood.
here is how they turned out:
PLANT CELLS
ANIMAL CELLS
Labels: grade 8 science, instructional methods