1.

Key Topic of the Day: Cell Structure and Function

● Overview: Study of the smallest unit of life, focusing on both prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells and their components.

2. Important Definitions:

● Cell Membrane: The semipermeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of

a cell.
● Nucleus: The organelle that contains the cell's DNA and is the control center
of the cell.
● Mitochondria: Known as the powerhouses of the cell, these organelles
generate the energy that the cell needs to function.
● Ribosomes: Small particles consisting of RNA and associated proteins that
function in protein synthesis.

3. Main Points:

● Components of a Cell:
● Cell Wall: (present in plants, fungi, and bacteria) Provides structure and
protection.
● Cytoplasm: Jelly-like fluid that fills a cell, where all other cellular
components are suspended.
● Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER): Processes molecules created by the cell
and transports them to their specific destinations either inside or
outside the cell. It comes in two forms: rough (with ribosomes) and
smooth (without ribosomes).
● Prokaryotic vs. Eukaryotic Cells:
● Prokaryotic Cells: Do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound
organelles. Typically smaller than eukaryotic cells.
● Eukaryotic Cells: Contain a nucleus and other organelles that are
enclosed within membranes.
● Cell Functions:
● Transport of Nutrients and Waste: The plasma membrane controls the
movement of substances in and out of the cell.
● Cellular Respiration: Mitochondria convert chemical energy from food
into a form that the cell can use.
● Protein Synthesis: DNA is used to make RNA within the nucleus, and
RNA is used to make proteins at the ribosomes.

4. Examples/Illustrations:
 ● Illustration of a Cell: Detailed diagram labeling all the parts of a typical
eukaryotic cell, such as the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, ER, Golgi
apparatus, and lysosomes.

5. Questions Raised:

● What are the specific functions of the Golgi apparatus in cellular operations?
● How do differences in cell structure affect the functions of plant and animal
cells?

6. Homework/Assignments:

● Review the cell diagrams provided in class.

● Complete the worksheet on functions of different cell organelles.

7. Additional Notes:

● Highlighted the importance of vesicles in transporting proteins and other

molecules from the ER to the Golgi apparatus.
● Discussed examples of cell adaptations in extreme environments (e.g.,
thermophiles).