Download Cell Specialization Lab

Name ______________________________________
Period ___________
Pre-AP Biology
Cell Specialization Lab
Background:
A multi-cellular organism is composed of many cells that work together. Multicellularity enables cells to
develop a specialized form and function. For example, flat, stacked cells like the cells of your epidermis,
are good for protection.
Procedure:
In this lab, you will rotate lab stations. Each station will have a numbered microscope containing a
different cell. Each cell you observe has a specialized shape to perform a specific function. View each
slide carefully and make detailed notes.
Data:
For each cell:
 Include a drawing of each cell.

Describe the structures and characteristics of the cell.

Using the cell description for each cell, predict the possible function of the cell.

Using the following possible cell types given by your teacher. Predict the cell at each station.
Questions:
 What is meant by “cell specialization”?

What is the function of ciliated cells in the lungs?

How is a nerve cell adapted to perform signaling functions?

Describe the levels of organization of multicellular organisms?
**Put your data and the answers to the questions in your notebook**
After you have completed your lab, show your work to your teacher.
Name ______________________________________
Period ___________
Typical Animal Cell
No cell wall, visible nucleus,
round shape
Can do many functions
No cell wall, bi-concave, no
nucleus
Carries oxygen in blood
No cell wall, long and thin,
visible nucleus
Cells contract together to
move skeleton of animal
No cell wall, columnar shape
Layers of cells on the surface,
acts as a barrier
No cell wall, has dendrites
and long, thin axon
Makes connections with other
neurons, muscle cells and
sensory cells
No cell wall, has flagella
Delivers genetic material to
egg
Blood Cell
Muscle Cell
Epithelial Cell
Neuron
Sperm Cell
Pre-AP Biology
Name ______________________________________
Period ___________
Typical Plant Cell
Cell wall, chloroplasts,
visible nucleus
Can do many functions
Cell wall, many cells
undergoing mitosis
Absorbs water and minerals,
grows down into soil, secures
plant in soil
Long, thin extensions
Absorb water by osmosis
Cells forming tubes carry
water, minerals and nutrients
Xylem carries water and up
the plant; phloem carries
sugar from source to sink
Cell wall, many chloroplasts
Specialized for
photosynthesis
Root Cells
Root Hairs
Stem Cells
Leaf Cells
Pre-AP Biology