11/5/09 Blog!

This week in Science, we learned about organelles and their functions. Here are some examples of organelles and their functions:

• Nucleus- The DNA- gives cells their own unique characteristics-found in both Plant and Animal Cells
• Vacuole- helps cells digest and release waste- found in both Plant and Animal Cells
• Cell Wall- Protective barrier, helps cells maintain shape- Plant cells have them, Animal Cells do not

To learn about the cells and their functions, we drew and labeled pictures of an Animal Cell and a Plant Cell. Also, we made a chart, making one column labeled Function, one labeled Organelle, and two check-boxes- one for Plant Cell and one for Animal Cell. We also made lists of 5 different types of Animal Cells, Plant Cells, and Bacteria Cells. This is important to know because cells are all around us.

We also learned about Paramecium by doing research and trying to find them under a microscope. Since paramecium are commonly found in moist areas, we observed a slide of pond water under a microscope and saw a small oval shaped organism racing around from side to side. It is important to know about Paramecium because although they are small they are also effective. Paramecium provide as food for other organisms and provide oxygen. So Paramecium make a big environmental impact.