Cells are the basic unit of life. Every living thing is made of 1 or more cells.

• Unicellular organisms are made of 1 cell.

• Multicellular organisms are many of many cells.

What are cells?

​This is an example of plant cells under the microscope

​This is an example of animal cells under a microscope

There are many different types of cells

Different kinds of cells have different functions or jobs.

Organelles

Organelles are like "little organs" within your cells. They are specialized parts that each have a specific function or job that keep the cell alive.

The nucleus controls the cell and stores DNA.

It is the brain of the cell.

Both plant and animal cells have nuclei.

Nucleus

The cell membrane controls what enters and exits the cell.

It is the security guard of the cell.

Both plant and animal cells have cell membranes

Cell membrane

Ribosomes make proteins.

They are the factory of the cell.

Both plant and animal cells have ribosomes.

Ribosomes

The vacuole stores water and waste.

They are the sink of the cell.

Both plant and animal cells have vacuoles but plant cells have a bigger one.

Vacuole

The mitochondria makes energy for the cell. This is where cellular respiration happens

They are the powerhouse of the cell.

Both plant and animal cells have mitochondria.

Mitochondria

The next 2 organelles are only found in plant cells.

The cell wall provides rigid support for plant cells.

They are the "brick walls" of plant cells.

Only plant cells have cell walls!

Cell Wall

The chloroplast makes glucose for plant cells through the process of photosynthesis.

They are the solar panels of plant cells.

Only plant cells have chloroplasts!

Chloroplast