Senior High School

STEM
Science,Technology,Engineering, and Mathematics
General Biology 1
General Biology 1 – Senior High School
Quarter 1 – Module 1: The Cell
First Edition, 2020

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Development Team of the Module

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General Biology 1
Quarter 1 – Module 1:
The Cell

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Introductory Message

Welcome to the Senior High School K to 12 Module on General Biology 1!

This module was collaboratively designed, developed and reviewed by educators both from
public and private institutions to assist you, the teacher or facilitator in helping the learners meet the
standards set by the K to 12 Curriculum while overcoming their personal, social, and economic
constraints in schooling.
This learning resource hopes to engage the learners into guided and independent learning
activities at their own pace and time. Furthermore, this also aims to help learners acquire the needed
21st century skills while taking into consideration their needs and circumstances.
In addition to the material in the main text, you will also see this box in the body of the
module:
This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities for guided
and independent learning at your own pace and time. You will be enabled to process the contents of
the learning resource while being an active learner.
This module has the following parts and corresponding icons:

This will give you an idea of the skills or competencies

you are expected to learn in the module.
What I Need to Know

This part includes an activity that aims to check what

you already know about the lesson to take. If you get
What I Know all the answers correct (100%), you may decide to
skip this module.

This is a brief drill or review to help you link the

current lesson with the previous one.
What’s In

In this portion, the new lesson will be introduced to

you in various ways; a story, a song, a poem, a
What’s New problem opener, an activity or a situation.

This section provides a brief discussion of the lesson.

This aims to help you discover and understand new
concepts and skills.

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 What is It

This comprises activities for independent practice to

solidify your understanding and skills of the topic.
What’s More You may check the answers to the exercises using the
Answer Key at the end of the module.
This includes questions or blank sentence/paragraph
to be filled in to process what you learned from the
What I Have Learned lesson.

This section provides an activity which will help you

transfer your new knowledge or skill into real life
What I Can Do
situations or concerns.

This is a task which aims to evaluate your level of

mastery in achieving the learning competency.
Assessment

In this portion, another activity will be given to you

to enrich your knowledge or skill of the lesson
Additional Activities learned.

At the end of this module you will also find:

References This is a list of all sources used in developing this module.

The following are some reminders in using this module:

1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on any part of the module. Use a
separate sheet of paper in answering the exercises.
2. Don’t forget to answer What I Know before moving on to the other activities included in
the module.
3. Read the instruction carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Submit the accomplished module every end of the week.
7. Upon submission claim the module for the following week.

If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module, do not hesitate to consult your
teacher or facilitator through text, phone call, chat, online classroom during the virtual orientation
with students.

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Always bear in mind that you are not alone.

We hope that through this material, you will experience meaningful learning and gain deep
understanding of the relevant competencies. You can do it!

Lesson

1 The Cell Theory

Before you go to the first activity, answer the pretest below.

What I Know

I. Pretest
A. Directions: Answer with TRUE or FALSE on your answer sheet.
1.) All living organisms are made up of cells.
2.) Cells are the basic units of structure and function in living things.
3.) New cells are produced from pre-existing cells.
4.) Cells evolve over time creating new cells.
5.) Cells grow to maintain homeostasis. B. Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer
on your answer sheet.
6.) Which of the following is part of the cell theory?
A. Atoms create all matter. B. All living organisms evolve.
C. The cell is the backbone of all matter.
D. The cells are the basic unit of structure and organization of organisms.
7.) Which statement is part of the cell theory?
A. All cells come from pre-existing cells. C. Eukaryotic cells are complex.
B. Bacteria are prokaryotic cells. D. Mammals are multicellular.
8.) Which of the following statements is/are NOT a postulate or assumption of the cell theory?
I. All cells arise from other cells
II. All living cells require water for survival
III. All living things are only composed of cells
A. I only B. II only C. I and II D. II and III
9.) Who among these scientists observed that all plants are made of cells?
A. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek C. Robert Hooke
B. Matthias Schleiden D. Rudolf Virchow

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10.) Who among these scientists observed a cork of an oak tree using a primitive microscope and
named it the “cell”?
A. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek C. Robert Brown
B. Robert Hooke D. Theodore Schwann 11.) Who among
these scientists discovered the nucleus?
A. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek C. Robert Hooke
B. Robert Brown D. Theodore Schwann
12.) Who was the first to describe “cells” in dead cork tissue?
A. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek C. Rudolf Virchow
B. Robert Hooke D. Theodore Schwann
13.) What is the second formal statement in the cell theory?
A. All living organisms are made of cells. C. Every cell has nucleus.
B. Cells arise from pre-existing cells. D. The cell is the basic unit of life.
14.) Which of the following statements of Cell Theory is Rudolf Virchow best known for?
A. All living organisms are made of cells.
B. All cells arise from pre-existing cells.
C. New cells arise from only one tissue.
D. Once cells die the tissue degenerates.
15.) Which group of these scientists contributed to the cell theory?
A. Matthias Schleiden, Robert Hooke, and Charles Darwin
B. Robert Hooke, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, and Theodore Schwann
C. Robert Boyle, Rudolf Virchow, and Robert Brown
D. Robert Brown, Robert Hooke, and Albert Einstein

After answering and checking your work, proceed to the next activity.

Lesson

1 The Cell Theory

Track/Strand : Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Subject : General Biology I

Number of Hours : 40 hours (One Semester)

Quarter : First Quarter

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Subject Description:
This subject is designed to enhance the understanding of the principles and concepts in the
study of biology, particularly life processes at the cellular and molecular levels. It also covers the
transformation of energy in organisms.
Learning Competencies:
● Explain the postulates of the cell theory. (STEM_BIO11/12 -Ia-c-1)
● Describe the structure and function of major and subcellular organelles. (STEM_BIO11/12
-Ia-c-2)

What’s In

The development of the concept of life draws from theories and discoveries that are supported
by a growing body of evidence. Such conceptual development of life leads to questions like “How
did life begin?” “How did it evolve?”
Curiosity about many mysteries of life serves as the driving force in studies that seek to
further our understanding of how life began. An important part of the nature of science provides
theories on the beginning and formation of the universe. There are pieces of evidence to support these
theories.
The origin of life has been one of the most controversial issue in the field of biology. Until
recently, people believed that life occurred from a nonliving substance. This is consistent with the
theory of abiogenesis, also known as the theory of spontaneous generation. This theory was disproved
by Louis Pastuer and Lazzaro Spallanzani. They argued that life originated from pre-existing life
forms – a concept first raised by Robert Virchow.
As you go along in this module, you will discover more about living organisms and the people
behind who worked tirelessly in the discovery of the cell.

What’s New

Activity 1.1.
Directions: Read the basic information given about the Discovery of the Cell and the
development of the Cell Theory. Then, study carefully the information.

The Discovery of the Cell

The cell was discovered by English physicist Robert Hooke in 1665. Using a
magnifying glass, he observed the cork of an oak tree and saw tiny boxes or hollow
spaces that are distinct from one another. He called these hollow spaces, “cells.” In

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1673, perhaps, the first to discover live cells was Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek, a Dutch
microscopist. He observed unicellular or single-celled organisms that have animallike
properties. He called these organisms “animalcules” or small animals. In 1831,
Scottish botanist Robert Brown provided the first account of the nucleus – the distinct
central structure in a cell.
The concept that all life forms are made of cells is credited to the German botanist
Matthias Schleiden and German physiologist Theodore Schwann. In 1838, Matthias
Schleiden, conducted a microscope study of plant structures and concluded that
plants are made up of cells. In 1839, Theodore Schwann, performed a similar study
involving animal tissues and concluded that animals are made up of cells. These
scientists, through their observations and discoveries, have formulated the first and
second postulate or assumption of the cell theory. In 1855, the German biologist
Rudolph Virchow suggested that cells came from pre-existing cells through cell
division – the third postulate or assumption of the cell theory. This ability of the cells
to divide and form new cells is the reason for the reproduction and growth of all living
organisms.

The Cell Theory

The following postulates or assumptions comprise the cell theory.

1. All living organisms are made up of one or more cells.
2. Cells are the basic units of structure, function and organization in all living
organisms.
3. Cells come from pre-existing cells.

Let’s look at each of the statements in further detail.

All Living Organisms are Made Up of One or More Cells

The first part of the cell theory is the concept that all living things are made of cells.
In other words, in order for something to be alive, it must either be a cell or made up
of cells. All plants and animals are made up of cells. A paramecium is made up of just
one cell, but it is still enough for it to be living. A stone, however, is not made of cells,
so it is not alive.

Cells are the Basic Units of Structure, Function, and Organization in All Living
Organisms
The second part of the cell theory states that cells are the basic units of life. A cell
is capable of independent existence and can carry out all the functions which are
necessary for a living being. A cell carries out nutrition, respiration, excretion,
transportation, and reproduction; the way an individual organism does. Single-celled
or unicellular organisms are capable of independent existence which shows a cell’s
capability to exist independently. Because of this, a cell is called the fundamental and
structural unit of life. All living organisms are composed of the basic unit of life, i.e.
cell.

Cells come from Pre-existing Cells

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 The third part of the cell theory states that cells come from pre-existing cells. Cells
give birth to other cells by a pre-existing cell dividing into two daughter cells.
Scientists call this process – cell division – because one cell produces two new
genetically identical daughter cells. Although mitosis occurs after sexual reproduction
as the embryo develops and grows, it also occurs during the lifespan of a living
organism to replace old cells, with new cells.

The Modern Principles of the Cell Theory include the following:

1. All living things are made up of one or more cells.
2. The cell is the fundamental, structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
3. All cells come from pre-existing cells, by cell division.
4. The activity of the organism is the total activity of the independent cells of
organism.
5. All energy flow of life occurs within the cell.
6. The cells contain hereditary information and is passed on from one to another
during cell division.
7. The chemical composition of cell are basically the same in organisms of similar
species.
,
A. Complete the Cell Theory timeline with scientist name, year, and a summary of
contribution to the Cell Theory.

Scientist Year Contribution to the Cell Theory

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

B. Name the three parts of the Cell Theory:

1. ________________________________________________________________

2. ________________________________________________________________

3. ________________________________________________________________

If you got all answers correctly, very good! If not, your teacher will help you know why!
You can move on to the next activity.

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 What’s More

Activity 1.2.
A. Cryptogram
Directions: Identify the letter that corresponds to the symbol to form the new words.
Then use the key to decode the answer.

KEY
A B C D E F G H I J K L M
ↈ ∆ ↇ ⅌ ⅏ ℧ ₽ ₠ ₡ ‫۝‬ ۩ ۞ ֍

N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
ꭃ Ꞝ Ꝏ ⸿ ⸙ ⸎ ♫ ☼ ☻ ╬ ∞

Hint: Use the given symbols to decipher the sentence below.

T ₠ E N ₡ ℧ I E ⅌

ↇ ۞ ₠ Ꞝ ╬

⸎ ↈ ⸎ ₠ ↈ

۞ ۞ ۞ ♫ ₽

₠ ꭃ ₽ ⸙

Ꞝ Ꝏ ⸎ ⅌ ℧

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 Ꞝ ⅏ ⸙ ֍ ⸙

ↇ ⅏ ⸎ ۞ ۞
,

₡ ∆ ⸎ ↇ

₡ ₽ ₽ ⅏

ꭃ ꭃ ☼ ۞ ۞

ↈ ₡ ₠ ⸙ Ꞝ

⅏ ⅏ ☻ ꭃ ₽

ↇ ⅏
.

Were you able to miss any? Mark them well and review some more. In your answer sheet,
write your plan to help improve your learning style.

Today, I will…….
1.
2.
3.

3.
Refresh your memory by answering the next section!

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 What I Have Learned

I Learned that…….
1. Robert Hooke observed a cork using a primitive microscope and coined the term “_____________”
which means cell.
2. Matthias Schleiden and Theodore Schwann first observed living organisms with a
_________________ which led to many scientific discoveries.
3. Robert Brown discovered a new structure in living organisms known as _____________.
4. Theodore Schwann studied plant tissues and concluded that all plants are composed
of __________.
5. It was discovered by Matthias Schleiden that animal tissues consisted of individual __________.
6. Rudolf Virchow proposed that all cells are produced from __________ cells.
7. The fundamental concepts of modern biology includes the three postulates or assumptions of the
cell theory such as
________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________,
and
_______________________________________________________________________________.
8. The Modern Cell Theory states that:
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________.

What I Can Do

The activities below are only supplemental for added learning. If you have internet access,
you may visit these sites.
I. Visit the link https://youtu.be/ZRFykdf4kDc in the internet. Study the video and write your answer
with the following focused questions on your answer sheet.
To address - 1) Cells are the smallest unit of structure and function of living things
1. Why do they compare the building of city to that of a human body? In a human body what is
analogous to the bricks in a city.

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2. According to the video what are the smallest part of living things?
3. Write down some examples of human cells.
4. Fill in the following sequence: cells > _________ > organs > __________ > organism.
5. Without bricks it would be very difficult to build and repair a city. What do you believe would be
the outcome if living things had no cells?
II. Visit the link https://youtu.be/XdKvdURrtDs in the internet, study the video, sketch or draw what
you have seen and write your answer with the following focus questions in your answer sheet.
To address - 2) Cells come from preexisting cells
1. Based on your observations where do new cells come from?
III. Study the following pictures and write your answers with the following focus questions below in
your answer sheet.
To address 3) All organisms are made of one or more cells

1. Based on the picture above, what are the two types of organisms that exist?
2. Are plants and animals multicellular or unicellular? What does it mean to be multicellular?

Reaching this part means you have done a good job! Congratulations!!! You are now ready
to move on to the next part of this module.

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 Assessment

II. Posttest
Directions: Choose the correct answer from the four options. Write your answers on your answer
sheet.
1.) What is the first postulate in the cell theory?
A. All living things are made of cells. C. Every cell has nucleus.
B. Cells arise from pre-existing cells. D. The cell is the basic unit of life.
2.) Which statements are correct about the Cell Theory?
I. Every cell has nucleus.
II. All living things are made of cells.
III. Cells arise from pre-existing cells.
IV. The cell is the basic unit of life.
A. I only B. II, III and IV C. II and III D. I, II and IV
3.) Which of the following is an assumption of cell theory, as proposed by Theodore Schwann?
A. Cell can be seen with naked eyes. C. Only animals are composed of cells.
B. Cell is the structural unit of life. D. Not all organisms have cells.
4.) What did Matthias Schleiden and Theodore Schwann both discover individually?
A. All cells have organelles.
B. All living things engage in metabolic functions.
C. All cells are composed of one or more cells.
D. Spontaneous generation of cells is an incorrect theory.
5.) Which of the following was first examined under a microscope that later led to the discovery of
cells?
A. Animal tissues C. Plant
B. Cork C. Single-celled organism
6.) Who was the first to observe “animalcules” under the microscope?
A. Anton van Leeuwenhoek C. Robert Virchow
B. Robert Hooke D. Theodore Schwann

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7.) What did Rudolf Virchow, a German pathologist, propose?
A. cell theory C. second postulate of cell theory
B. first postulate of cell theory D. third postulate of cell theory
8.) How many postulates or assumptions does a cell theory have?
A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4
9.) Which microscope was used by Anton van Leeuwenhoek?
A. Compound microscope C. Double-lens
B. Confocal microscope D. Single-lens
10.) Which technology was essential for the development of the cell theory?
A. Antiseptics B. Microwaves C. Microscopes D. Telescopes
11.) Who discovered that all plants were made of cells, which contributed to the development of the
cell theory?
A. Anton van Leeuwenhoek C. Matthias Jakob Schleiden
B. Robert Hooke D. Theodore Schwann
12.) Who advanced the development of cell theory that cells come from pre-existing cells?
A. Anton van Leeuwenhoek C. Rudolph Virchow
B. Robert Hooke D. Theodore Schwann
13.) Which of the following is NOT one of the main components of the cell theory?
A. All living things are made of cells C. Cells can only come from other cells
B. Cells must contain DNA D. Cells are the basic unit of life
14.) What did Robert Brown discover?
A. Chloroplasts B. Cell wall C. Mitochondria D. Nucleus15.) Which
group of these scientists contributed to the cell theory?
A. Matthias Schleiden, Theodore Schwann, and Rudolf Virchow
B. Rudolf Virchow, Albert Einstein, and Antonie van Leeuwenhoek
C. Robert Hooke, Charles Darwin, and Antonie van Leeuwenhoek
D. Theodore Schwann, Matthias Schleiden, and Sir Isaac Newton

You have done well doing all the tasks in Lesson One!!!
Congratulations!!!

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 Lesson 2: Cell Structure and Functions

What I Need to Know

Good day, Science Enthusiasts! Today, you will start learning more about living
organisms. This module will also take you to the different activities about the cell structure
and functions.
As you work on the activities in this module, you will be able to:
Identify the structure of various organelles located in a cell;
Identify the specific functions of organelles;
Before you go tothe
Explain thehow
first different
activity, answer the work
organelles pretest below. and
together;
Compare and contrast between plant and animal cells.

What I Know
I. Pretest
A. Directions: Answer with TRUE or FALSE on your answer sheet.
1.) The shape and structure of the cell is related to its function.
2.) All parts found in the plant cells are also found in the animal cells.
B. Direction: Write the letter of the correct answer on your answer sheet.

3.) Which of the following organelles do plants and animals have in common?
A. Golgi bodies, nucleus, choloroplast and vacuoles
B. Mitochondrion, endoplasmic reticulum, and golgi bodies
C. Mitochondrion, endoplasmic reticulum and chloroplast
D. Mitochondrion, chloroplast, endoplasmic reticulum and nucleus
4.) What is the purpose of the mitochondrion in both plants and animal cells?
A. Provide proteins C. Store water, food and wastes
B. Package and transport proteins D. Act as the powerhouse of the cell and release energy
5.) What is the function of the cytoplasm?
A. Releases energy in the cell C. Contains the pigment called chlorophyll
B. Holds all the organelles in place D. Transports food, water and waste in and out of the cell

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6.) Which of the following is the function of the nucleus?
A. Control protein production C. Transport materials around and out of the cell
B. Release energy in the cell D. Control the activities of the cell; acts the brain
7.) Which of the following is NOT true about chloroplast?
A. Chloroplast is the organelle that contains chlorophyll.
B. Chloroplast is only found in plant cell.
C. Chloroplast gives the green leaves their green color.
D. Chloroplast uses energy from the cell to convert water into carbon dioxide.
8.) What type of cells have a cell membrane?
A. Animal cells C. Both animal and plant cells
B. Plant cells D. Neither animal nor plant cells
9.) What is the function of Golgi bodies?
A. Serves as the control center of the cell
B. Transport materials in both plant and animal cells
C. Separate the inner parts of the cell from the surrounding environment
D. Package and transport proteins, and hold waste products until the cell is ready to get rid of them
10.) What type of cell has cytoplasm (the fluid filled region from the cell membrane to the nucleus)?
A. Animal cells C. Both animal and plant cells
B. Plant cells D. Neither animal or plant cells
11.) Which of the following statements concerning plant vacuoles are correct? Please select all that
apply.
A. The membrane surrounding the central vacuole of mature plant cells is called the tonoplast.
B. The fluid contained within the central vacuole of mature plant cells is called the cell sap.
C. The turgor pressure within a mature plant cell is maintained by the fluid cytosol.
D. Components of the central vacuole of mature plant cells are synthesized in the rough endoplasmic
reticulum and Golgi apparatus.
12.) Which of the following can float within the cytoplasm, can create proteins and can be attached
to an organelle?
A. Cytoplasm C. Nucleus
B. Mitochondria D. Ribosome

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13.) Which of the following organelles monitors and controls substances in and out of the cell?
A. Cell membrane C. Ribosome
B. Chloroplast D. Vacuole
14.) What organelle acts as the digestive system inside a cell that helps to break down old or unneeded
parts of the cell?
A. Endoplasmic reticulum C. Mitochondria
B. Lysosome D. Ribosome
15.) What is the basis of scientists to determine whether an organism is a plant or an animal?
A. How it obtains energy C. Whether it is mobile or not
B. How it reproduces D. Whether it is unicellular or multicellular

After checking your work, proceed to the next activity.

What’s In

Ever wondered what living organisms are made of? Or rather, what is it that makes
us living individuals? The cell is the smallest or tiniest structural and functional unit of a
living organism. Thus, everything that we are able to do so is possible because of the 10
trillion cells present in our body. The number is so huge and of course, the function performed
by is even bigger. Among the multicellular organisms, there are two typical cell types – the
animal and the plant cells. Even though these two types of cells share many common
structures, there are few exceptions. The following activities will help you understand more
the difference between a plant cell and an animal cell.

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 What’s New

Activity 1.1.
Directions: Study the figure below that shows a plant cell and an animal cell. Study it and
answer the questions that follow.

Figure 2.1. Plant Cell Figure 2.2. Animal Cell

1. Identify the structure labelled B which is the justification for considering figure 1.1. as a plant cell?
________________________________________________________________________________
2. The structure labeled A is present in all living organisms.
________________________________________________________________________________
3. The organelle labelled F is responsible for life in this planet and animal cells lack this organelle.
________________________________________________________________________________

4. This is the physical basis of life where organelles are present. The location labeled C is……
________________________________________________________________________________
5. The structure labeled E is called the “brain of the cell” where the genetic material is located.
________________________________________________________________________________
6. The structure labeled G give rise to spindle fibers and can only be seen in animal cell.
________________________________________________________________________________
7. The organelle H is the “powerhouse of the cell” in all multicellular organisms where ATP is
synthesized.

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________________________________________________________________________________
8. It is the site of synthesis of secretory proteins. The organelle is labelled I is…..
________________________________________________________________________________
9.It is the site of lipid biosynthesis and drug detoxification. The organelle is labelled J is …….
________________________________________________________________________________
10. Unlike animal cells, plant cells possess cell wall and large vacuole. In the figure, it is labeled
as…….
________________________________________________________________________________

Good job!!! Then, proceed to the next activity.

Activity 1.2.
Directions: Read the selection, “Brilliant Workers of the Cell Company”. Then answer the
questions that follow.

Brilliant Workers of the Cell Company

One day, while the nucleus got tired of his work, he decided to
take a short nap. But as he closed his eyes, he heard noises of
quarreling members of his cell company. The cytoplasmic
organelles such as mitochondria, lysosomes, ribosomes, golgi
bodies (apparatus), endoplasmic reticulum were complaining of
their very tiring and routinary works. They felt that the
administration headed by the nucleus have given light duties for the cell membrane,
cell wall, and chloroplast.
He stood up and called an emergency meeting and let each organelle cite their
sentiments. Cytoplasm acts as a mediator since all organelles are embedded to him.
Each of them was given an opportunity to defend themselves.
Mitochondria: I change chemical energy stored in food into compounds that are
more convenient for the cell to use.
Lysosomes: I am a clean up worker, I have chemicals and enzymes necessary for
digesting certain materials in cells that have outlined their usefulness.
Golgi bodies (apparatus): Without me, lysosomes will not be here. I’m , responsible
also to modify, collect, package, and distribute molecules made at one location of the
cell and used at another.
Ribosomes: Even I’m just very small, I’m very active in making proteins.
Endoplasmic reticulum: Without me…each of us will not receive any important
materials. Proteins that are released or exported from the cell are synthesized by me.
The nucleus carefully analyzed the explanations of each and gave the chance to
the second group.
Cell (plasma) membrane: I act like a door. Since you are working in this company, I
always make sure that I know what enters and leaves the company for your
protection.

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 Cell wall: I go with the cell membrane in supporting and protecting the company.
Chloroplast: I agree with you, mitochondria, but I’m the only organelle that can trap
the energy of sunlight and convert it into chemical energy.
Cytoplasm: Now that we are all enlightened by your beliefs, as mediator I believed
that all of you played an important role for the company. But the decision still
depends on our director and manager, the Nucleus.
The nucleus said, :” Do you still want to be a part of our company? Are you still
willing to perform your job satisfactorily and faithfully? Can you live without each
other? The answers are all yours…..
The first group of organelles shamefully approach the second group of organelles,
hug each other and humbly accept their faults.
From then on, Cell Company’s organelles worked harmoniously.

Now, you are ready to answer the following comprehension questions.

Putting Yourself on the Task…….

1. What are the two groups of organelles in the story that are quarrelling with one another?
________________________________________________________________________________
2. Why are these organelles complaining?
________________________________________________________________________________
3. Do you agree or disagree with the first group? Why?
________________________________________________________________________________
4. How important are these organelles in the company? Give their duties.
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
5. a. Why do you think the chloroplast agrees with the mitochondria?
________________________________________________________________________________
b. In what way are they similar?
________________________________________________________________________________
c. In what way are they different?
________________________________________________________________________________
6. What makes lysosomes describes himself as clean up crew?
________________________________________________________________________________
7. If you were the nucleus, would you do the same thing?
________________________________________________________________________________
8. Among the organelles, why does the nucleus head the company?
________________________________________________________________________________
9. If you will be given a chance to be one of these organelles, who do you want to be? Why?
________________________________________________________________________________

If you got all answers correctly, very good! You can now proceed.

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 What is It

The Cell Structure and Function

Cell Number, Shape and Size

Cell Number
Our human body have 10 trillion of cells. There are several different groups of cells which
perform a plethora of functions. Every organism that has more than one cell is known as the
multicellular organism.
Even an organism that has billions of cells happens to begin its life with a single cell, that is
a fertilized egg. This fertilized egg goes on to multiply, thereby increasing the number of cells as
the development takes place. If an organism is a single-celled organism, then it would be a
unicellular organism.
A single-celled organism is just as capable of performing all the requisite life functions. So,
just like the multicellular organisms, the single-celled organisms also perform their functions but
only using a single cell. Every single-celled organism such as an amoeba captures and digests food,
respires, excretes, grows and reproduces.
The similar functions are performed in the multicellular organisms. However, in their case,
these functions are performed by a group of specialized cells forming different tissues. These
tissues, in turn, go on to form organs.
Cell Shape
Usually, the cells are round, elongated or spherical. There are also some cells which are
long and pointed on both the ends. Such cells exhibit spindle shape. In some cases, the cells are
very long. Some may be branched like the neuron or the nerve cell. The nerve cell transfers and
receives messages.

It, therefore, helps in coordinating and controlling the working of the different parts of the
body. The components of the cell are enclosed in a membrane. This membrane provides shape to
the cells of animals and plants. There is a cell wall surrounding them. The cell wall is an additional
covering over the cell membrane in the plant cells. It offers rigidity and shape to the cells.

Cell Size
The cell size is variable. In the living organisms, the cell size may be as small as a millionth
of a meter or may be as large as a few centimeters. Usually, all the cells are microscopic in size and
aren’t visible to the naked eye. Thus, they need to be enlarged by a microscope for seeing.

Functions of a Cell
As you already know that a cell is a structural and functional unit of living organisms. Let
us study the 6 most vital functions performed by a cell.

1. Structure and Support. You know a house is made of walls, beams etc. Similarly, a living
organism is made up of cells. Though there are certain cells such as collenchyma and sclerenchyma

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are present for offering structural support however in general too, all cells generally provide the
structural basis of all living organisms.
2. Growth. In complex organisms such as mammals, the tissues grow by simple multiplication of
cells. Therefore, cells are responsible for the growth of the organism via the process of mitosis.
3. Transport. Cells import nutrients that are used in different chemical process which takes place
inside the cell. As a result of these processes, a waste product is produced. Cells then work to get
rid of waste. In this manner, the micromolecules like oxygen, carbon dioxide, and ethanol pass
through the cell (plasma) membrane) by passive transport. On the other hand, macromolecules, like
the proteins and polysaccharides, go in and out of the cell via active transport.
4. Energy Production. Cell is responsible for metabolism that includes all the chemical reactions
that take place inside an organism to keep it alive.
5. Reproduction. A cell helps in reproduction by the process (in more evolved organisms) and
meiosis.

Cells have three major parts:

1. Nucleus is the largest and most distinct feature of both animal and plant cells which is usually
centrally located and serves as the control center of the cell. It is responsible for cell division and
where DNA is located. It is enclosed with a nuclear membrane.
The following are the parts of the nucleus and their functions:
● Nuclear membrane – a double-walled membrane that regulates the exchange of
materials between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
● Nucleolus – a dark staining body which disappears when the cell is about to divide.
● Nucleoplasm – the liquid matrix that is enveloped or enclosed by the nuclear
envelope.
● Chromatin – the long thread-like or granular structures that are made up of the
genetic material and proteins to form chromosomes.
● Nuclear pore (nucleopore) - a protein-lined channel in the nuclear envelope that
regulates the transportation of molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.

Figure 2.3. The Nucleus

2. Cytoplasm is the material between the nucleus and the outer boundary where organelles are found.
3. Cell (plasma) membrane is a semipermeable membrane. It serves to t the organelles in the
cytoplasm and determines which material can pass in and out of the cell. It has an outer membrane
regulates exchange of materials between the cell’s internal and external environment. It also
permits cell to cell adhesion and intercellular communication. Cell (plasma) membrane is composed
of lipids, proteins and carbohydrates.

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 Figure 2.4. Protein Channels

The Suborganelles of the Cell

Endoplasmic Reticulum and Ribosomes

Endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes form a thin network of membranes within the
cytoplasm and continuously connect with the membrane of the nucleus. The endoplasmic reticula
may look like long tubules or flattened sacs. When ribosomes are attached to the surface, the
structure is called rough endoplasmic reticulum. In the absence of ribosomes, the structure is called
smooth endoplasmic reticulum.
The ribosomes are small bead-like structures that serves as sites of protein synthesis.
Proteins are essential parts of the cell’s structure. They act as enzymes or catalysts that help speed
up chemical reactions in cells.

Golgi Body or Golgi Apparatus

It is made up of a system of membrane-bound vesicles where secretory products of the cell
are stored and packed for secretion. The polysaccharides synthesized from simple sugars are stored
and packed in these organelles. The Golgi body also prepares proteins and carbohydrates for release
into the body.

Mitochondria
The mitochondria serve as sites for chemical reactions that extract energy from different
food sources. The mitochondria appear as double-walled sausage-like structures or oval bodies.
These organelles are usually called as the powerhouse of the cell for their involvement in cellular
respiration.

Lysosomes
Lysosome serve as storage vesicles for hydrolytic enzymes. As such, these organelles also
function as digestive system for the cell through which food particles ingested by phagocytosis or
pinocytosis are digested. Lysosomes contain chemicals that break down food into new cell-building
materials.

25
Vacuoles
Vacuoles are fluid-filled spaces found in both animal and plant cells. The vacuoles in a
plant is bigger than in an animal cell. Most plant cells have a single vacuole which take up much of
the cell’s interior and helps maintain the shape of the cell.

Figure 2.5 Plant Vacuole Figure 2.6. Animal Vacuole

Centrioles
Centrioles are structures found outside the nucleus. They are responsible for formation of
spindle fiber in cell division. They are self-replicating organelles made up of 9 bundles of
microtubules and are found only in animal cells. They appear to help in organizing cell division but
are not essential to the process

Cell Wall
Cell wall is a rigid, semipermeable membrane in plant cells. This outer membrane is
positioned next to the cell (plasma) membrane. Animal cells however, do not have cell wall. The
cell wall has many important functions in a cell including protection, structure and support. The cell
wall is composed mainly of cellulose. Additional functions of the cell wall include withstand turgor
pressure, regulate growth, regulate diffusion, communication and storage.Chloroplasts
Chloroplasts are structures found only in plant cells. They are oval in shape. It contains the
green pigment called chlorophyll. Chloroplast is also the site of photosynthesis.

Cytoskeleton
Cytoskeleton, a system of filaments or fibers that is present in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells
(cells containing a nucleus). The cytoskeleton organizes other constituents of the cell, maintains the
cell’s shape, and is responsible for the locomotion of the cell itself and the movement of the various
organelles within it. Three major types of filaments make up the cytoskeleton: microfilaments
(actin filaments), intermediate filaments and microtubules. Microfilament functions include
cytokinesis, amoeboid movement, cell motility, changes in cell shape, endocytosis and exocytosis,
cell contractility, and mechanical stability. Giving shape to cells and cellular membranes.

26
Microtubules functions cell movement, which includes contraction in muscle cells and more,
transportation of specific organelles within the cell via microtubule "roadways" or "conveyor belts,”
movement of chromosomes during cell division (mitosis and meiosis), and creation of the mitotic
spindle.

Figure 2.7. Animal Cell

Figure 2.8. Plant Cell

Let us see how well you can make a summary of what you know about the cell. You can proceed
to next activity!

27
 What’s More

Directions: Compare and contrast plant and animal cells by completing the Venn Diagram below.
Write you answer on your answer sheet.

Were you able to miss any? Mark them well and review some more. In your answer sheet,
write your plan to help improve your learning style

Today, I will…….
1.
2.
3.

Refresh your memory by answering the next section!

What I Have Learned

Directions: Complete the table below by putting a (√) if the structure is present and an (x) if the
structure is absent under each column. Then answer the questions that follow.
Is it found in Is it found in
Cell Part or Organelle a Plant Cell? an Animal Cell?

1. Cell membrane
2. Cell wall
3. Chloroplast
4. Cytoplasm
5. Endoplasmic reticulum
6. Golgi bodies
7. Lysosomes
8. Microtubule

28
 9. Mitochondrion
10. Nucleus
11. Nucleolus
12. Nuclear pore
13. Ribosomes
14. Vacuole

Questions:

1. What cell parts do animal cells have that plant cells do not have?
________________________________________________________________________________
2. What cell parts do plants have that animal cells do not have?
________________________________________________________________________________
3. Why do plant cells have walls that animal cells do not have?
________________________________________________________________________________
4. Why do you think plant cells have bigger vacuoles than animal cells?
________________________________________________________________________________

What I Can Do

Option 1
Directions: Make your own model of a cell at home. Prepare small package of gulaman and pour it
into dish. Put foods in the gelatin to present cell structures. You could use lettuce or shredded carrots
for endoplasmic reticulum and raisins for mitochondria. Be creative. Unmold you “cell”. And serve
it to your family for salad or dessert.

Option 2
Think critically…..

Figure 2.9. Tadpole

29
 A Tale of Tail
Mr. Gumban’s class studied the parts of plant and animal cells. The class captured tiny tadpoles
in a local stream. Mr. Gumban showed the students how to care for the tadpoles in the classroom.
Gradually, as the animals grew, the bodies were changing in shape. Back and front legs grew out.
The mouth expanded from a small hole to a large opening capable of swallowing large insects. In
addition, the tails started to disappear. Mr. Gumban told the whole class that there would be a
bonus question about the tadpoles in the test on animals. For a study clue, he told them to review
their notes on cells. What do changes in the body parts of the tadpoles have to do with cells?

Answer the bonus question:

What cell part makes a tadpole tails disappear? How?

Good job!!! You are now ready to answer the Posttest!

30
 Assessment

II. Posttest
I. Directions: Write the letter on a separate sheet.
1.) A cell has a defect that results in the loss of its ability to regulate passage of water, food, and
wastes into and out of the cell. In which of the following cell structures is this defect most
likely to be located?
A. Cell membrane B. chloroplasts C. nucleus D. ribosomes
Refer to the figure below for numbers 2 to 4.

2.) Food, water, and cellular wastes are stored primarily in the _________.
A. Chloroplast B. Mitochondrion C. Nucleus D.
Vacuole
3.) Which of these features would be found in an animal cell?
A. Chloroplast B. Cytoplasm C. Mitochondrion D. Nucleus
4.) Which of the following is found in all living cells?
A. centriole and nucleus C. mitochondrion and cell membrane
B. chloroplast and cytoplasm D. vacuole and cell wall
5.) In a biology class, students were asked to use a microscope to distinguish between plant and
animal cells. A student noticed a difference between the vacuoles in plant and animal cells.
How do the vacuoles in plant cells differ from animal cell vacuoles?
A. Plant cell vacuoles are usually larger.
B. Plant cells vacuoles are usually smaller.
C. Plant cells rarely contain vacuoles.
D. Plant cells usually contain more vacuole.

31
6.) A biology student was observing unidentified cells. She obtained the following data.
Cell Cell X Cell Y
Cytoplasm ☺ ☺
Chloroplast ☺ ☺
Cell Membrane ☺ ☻
Cell Wall ☻ ☺
Nucleus ☺ ☺
Vacuoles ☺ ☺
Using the legend below, how would you classify the cells
☻ Absent ☺ Present
A. Both cells X and Y are animal cells because they contain the three main parts.
B. Cell X is plant cell because of a small vacuole and presence of chloroplast.
C. Cell Y is a plant cell because of the presence of large vacuole, cell wall and chloroplast.
D. Cell X and Y are both plant cells because of the presence of vacuole.
7.) Which two structures are found only in plant cells?
A. Cell wall and sap vacuole C. Cytoplasm and cell membrane
B. Chloroplast and cell membrane D. nucleus and sap vacuoles
8.) Which part of a cell allows nutrients and other materials to enter or leave the cell?
A. Cell membrane B. Chloroplast C. Cytoplasm D. Nucleus
9.) Plant cells: chloroplast; Animal cells: __________
A. Centrioles B. Cytoplasm C. Mitochondrion D. Nucleus
10.) What makes the smooth endoplasmic reticulum different from the rough endoplasmic reticulum?
A. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is larger than the rough endoplasmic reticulum.
B. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is smaller than the rough endoplasmic reticulum.
C. A. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum lacks the ribosomes attached to the rough
endoplasmic reticulum.
D. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum and rough endoplasmic reticulum are the same.
11.) Which of the following is NOT considered an organelle?
A. Endoplasmic reticulum B. Golgi bodies C. nucleolus D. mitochondrion
12.) The endoplasmic reticulum is probably associated with ____________.
A. fat metabolism C. protein synthesis
B. packaging mechanism D. synthesis of carbohydrates

32
13.) Ribosomes are associated with the ___________.
A. Golgi bodies C. Nuclear membrane
B. Endoplasmic reticulum D. Nucleolus
14.) The so-called “power house” of the cell are the __________.
A. Cell membrane C. Mitochondrion
B. Lysosomes D. Ribosomes
15.) Onion cells and human cheek cells are examined under a microscope.

Onion Cells Human Cheek Cells

How many of the following structures are seen in both cells?

1. Nucleus 2. Cell wall 3. Cytoplasm 4. Cell membrane
A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4

You have done well dong all the tasks in this module!!! Congratulations!!!

33
References

Printed Materials:
Duyanen, Joselito C. et. al., Earth and Life Sciences for Senior High School : C&E Publishing Inc.,
2016
Laylay, Marilou H., Module 1 The Cell : Merryland Publishing Corporation, 2007
Ting Szu Kiong, Gradual Difficulty Science Topical Practice Secondary 1: Education Publishing
House Pte Ltd, 2015
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https://www.google.com/search?q=humn+cheek+cells&tbm=isch&ved=2ahUKEwifm_P7lLbqAhV
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mgrc=5fi9pBdIEzxdKM
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For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education – Division of Cebu City

Office Address: New Imus Avenue, Cebu City
Telephone Nos.: (063)255 – 1516, (032) 253 – 9095
E-mail Address: cebu city@deped.gov.ph

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