Lesson 1 - Cell Theory and Specialized Cells

Lesson Objectives

Content Objective: Describe the basics of cell theory and the exceptions to cell theory and the characteristics of specialized cells.

Language Objective: Identify the functions of cells from the number and variety of organelles.

Syllabus Details:

1.5 - Cells can only be formed by division of pre-existing cells.

1.5 - The first cells must have arisen from non-living material.

1.5 - Evidence from Pastuer’s experiments that spontaneous generation of cells and organisms does not now occur on Earth.

1.1 - Living organisms are composed of cells.

1.5 - The origin of eukaryotic cells can be explained by the endosymbiotic theory.

Homework: See Homework Page

Activity 1 - Cell Theory Discovery

Watch this video, BBC - The Cell, from 32 min to 50 min. It discusses the discovery of cells and cell theory. The basics of this theory are here:

Cell Theory:

1. all known living things are made up of cells.

2. the cell is a structural & functional unit of all living things.

3. all cells come from pre-existing cells by division

TOK

When you are finished, please answer discuss the two question with your elbow partner.

Serendipity can play a large role in science. Use an example from this video that shows how serendipity can play a role in science.
A paradigm shift, a concept identified by the American physicist and philosopher Thomas Kuhn, is a fundamental change in the basic concepts and experimental practices of a scientific discipline. Was Cell Theory a paradigm shift? Use examples to support your answer.

Activity 2 - Cells from Cells

Using the links below and information from the movie, explain with the aid of a diagram how Louis Pasteur disproved spontaneous generation.

Louis Pasteur - Spontaneous Generation - Just watch number 1 (though we will talk about 2 later in the course)

Louis Pasteur - Document

Activity 3 - Endosymbiotic Hypothesis

A. Strengthen Your Skills

B. Expand Your Knowledge

Dig Philosophy? Dig into the Philosophy of Science