# data[].attributes.body
Introduce students to 3D cell modeling software where they can digitally construct and explore the intricate parts of animal and plant cells. This interactive experience enhances their understanding of cell structures and functions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Download eBook now
Cellular Imaging and Analysis for 3D Cell Culture Applications and Assays

Development of more complex, biologically relevant, and predictive cell-based assays for compound screening is a primary challenge in drug discovery. The integration of three-dimensional (3D) assay models is becoming more widespread to drive translational biology. Higher complexity cell models have gained popularity because they better mimic in vivo environments and responses to drug treatment. Specifically, 3D cell cultures offer the advantage of closely recapitulating aspects of human tissues including the architecture, cell organization, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, and more physiologically-relevant diffusion characteristics. Utilization of 3D cellular assays adds value to research and screening campaigns, spanning the translational gap between 2D cell cultures and whole-animal models. By reproducing important parameters of the in vivo environment, 3D models can provide unique insight into the behavior of stem cells and developing tissues in vitro.

3D cell imaging and analysis workflow

While the development of quantitative assays using 3D cell cultures has become an attractive investigative tool to understand complex biology, challenging 3D cell image acquisition and analysis workflows have hindered wider adoption by the screening community. High-content, high-throughput tools for microscopy offer innovative and automated techniques for evaluating this complex biology. After the 3D cell culture is grown or transferred to an imaging microplate, cells can be treated with compounds and stained with the marker of choice. For acquisition, the ImageXpress® automated imaging systems and our cellular imaging and analysis software provide the capability to screen and analyze these models within a single, integrated interface to dramatically reduce time to discovery.

Steps used for a typical 3D cell culture assay:

3D cell culture imaging and analysis techniques

Our imaging technology continues to evolve for easier implementation of more physiologically-relevant models. Learn more about how our technology can help scale-up 3D cell culture from small-scale assays to high-throughput screening.

Watch Video

Watch Video
Advantages of 3D Cell Models

Three-dimensional (3D) cell models are more physiologically relevant than two-dimensional cell cultures, and they more closely represent the tissue microenvironments, cell-to-cell interactions, and biological processes that occur in vivo. Now you can generate more predictive data using high-content imaging (HCI) systems like the ImageXpress system. By integrating both high-content image acquisition and analysis software like MetaXpress® software with the 3D Analysis Module, the ImageXpress system can be used for in-depth analysis, visualization, and assessment of 3D structures. This single interface will enable you to meet 3D acquisition and analysis challenges without compromise to throughput or data quality, giving you confidence in your discoveries.

Learn more about 3D cell model application and assays:

The ImageXpress automated imaging systems are the ultimate combination of speed, sensitivity, and flexibility in a turnkey solution for your 2D or 3D applications and can accommodate different types of slide and plate formats. Our ImageXpress imaging systems allow superior visualization of thick samples by minimizing background fluorescence and increasing sharpness, resulting in accurate image segmentation. Increase the biological relevance of your screening assays with a seamless integration between acquisition and analysis of cells in a 3D space to yield volume, intensity, and distance measurements.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Higher complexity, 3D cell models have gained popularity because they better mimic in vivo environments and responses to drug treatment. Investigate complex 3D biology using advanced methods in cellular imaging and analysis technologies.

# data[].attributes.body
Guide students through a virtual lab where they can experiment with cell behavior under different conditions. This activity delves into the dynamic nature of cells and encourages scientific inquiry.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Microscope Activities

Cheek Cell Lab - observe cheek cells under the microscope

Observing Plant Cells - microscope observation of onion and elodea

Comparing Plant and Animal Cells - compare onion cells to human cheek cells

Investigation: What are the Different Types of Cells - survey of different kinds of cells, cheek, blood, onion root, leaf

Exploring Cells - follow in the footsteps of famous scientists like Hooke and Van Leeuwenhoek by looking at slides of cork, paramecium (animalcules) and typical plant and animal specimens.

Investigation: Banana Starch and Plastids - compare a ripe banana to a green banana by viewing plastids stained with iodine

Exploring Eukaryote and Prokaryote Cells - a comprehensive microscope lab that covers various types of cells like bacteria, plants, animals, and protozoa.

Why Are Cells So Small? - measure the surface area and volume of boxes as a cell model

Cell Size Experiment - use agar and a basic solution to illustrate how fast fluids can diffuse into a cell, dependent on cell size

Coloring and Labeling Activities

Animal Cell Coloring - color a typical animal cell

Plant Cell Coloring - color a typical plant cell

Prokaryote Coloring - color a typical bacteria cell

Cell City Analogy - compares a cell to a city by describing what each part of the cell does

Internet Activity on Cells (Cells Alive) - view interactive cells at cellsalive.com; complete worksheet

Cell Model - create a cell from household and kitchen items, rubric included

Cell Rap - fun poem to describe the parts of the cell, sing to the tune of "Fresh Prince"

Practice Labeling the Cell and Endomembrane System - complex drawing showing plant and animal cells, and protein synthesis

Simple Cell Labeling - simple cell drawing compared to a 3d complex cell diagram

Amoeba Sisters Video - worksheet for short program that outlines the structures of the cell and their functions

Cell Readings and Data Analysis

Gaucher Disease - explores a lysosome storage disorder

Mitochondria and Energy Production - explores structure of the mitochondria and how ATP is harvested

Data Analysis of Mitochondria Function - explores oxidative damage resulting from a toxic exposure (AP Bio)

What Causes Mitochondrial Disease - CER that explores different types of mutations that results in nonfunctioning mitochondria

Mitochondrial Disorders - What Happens When Cells Don't Get Enough Energy - read about a young girl diagnosed with a mitochondrial disorder (causes and symptoms)

Cell Reproduction

Mitosis in an Onion - view picture, identify the stages of mitosis in each of the cells

Cell Cycle Label - label a picture of the stages of mitosis, identify parts of the cell such as the centriole and spindle

Onion Root Tip Lab - view real cells with a microscope, requires lab equipment and prepared slides

Onion and Whitefish - view cells, if you missed the classroom lab; virtual version of the mitosis lab

Mitosis Internet Lesson - view animations of mitosis; questions

Meiosis Study Guide - view animations of meiosis, compare to mitosis

Cell Cycle Cut and Paste - students arrange words and draw arrows to illustrate mitosis

Cancer: Out of Control Cells - article describing how the cell cycle relates to cancer, includes questions

Osmosis and Diffusion

Observe Diffusion in a Bag - model diffusion using a plastic baggie, iodine and a beaker. This article explains what happens.

Transport Across the Cell Membrane - simple diagram shows how molecules enter the cell through diffusion, facilitated diffusion, and osmosis

Cell Membrane Images - work in groups to create captions and titles for images depicting the cell membrane and transport across it.

Case Study: Cystic Fibrosis - for AP Biology, examines the role of cell membrane proteins in clearing mucus from the lungs.

Observing Osmosis - use an egg, vinegar, corn syrup, will take a few days
Salt and Elodea - quick lab to observe the effects of salt water on elodea cells

Diffusion and Osmosis Crossword Puzzle - vocabulary review

Cell Transport Review Guide - with questions, definitions and images

Osmosis in Cells - AP Lab 1, modified, using dialysis tubes and sugar solutions to observe water movement

Water Potential and Molarity - measure the mass of carrots after soaking in different molarity solutions to determine the molarity of the carrot

Investigation - Cell Membrane Bubble Lab - model properties of the cell membrane with straws and a bubble solution

Cellular Respiration

Photosynthesis and Respiration Model - image shows the two processes are connected; students answer questions related to a graphi

Chemiosmosis Coloring - color the membrane and the steps involved in the production of ATP

Converting Light Energy into Chemical Energy - label of graphic of photosystems I and II

Cellular Respiration Graphic Organizer - map of the steps involved in cellular respiration ( Key, TpT)

Observing Cellular Respiration - AP Biology Lab using peas and respirometers

Cellular Respiration Virtual Lab - AP Lab that can be performed online at LabBench

Rate of Respiration Virtual Lab - use a simulator to show change in respiration of germinating seeds

Case Study: The Cyanide Murders - explores cellular respiration and why we need oxygen

Mouse Respiration CER - shows a graph of respiration rates at different temperatures

Photosynthesis

Plant Pigments - Use chromatography to observe plant pigments separate

Photosynthesis Simulation - this simulator uses light and varying levels of carbon dioxide to explore rates of photosynthesis, replaces the waterweed simulator

Photosynthesis Lab - AP Lab, uses spinach leaves and light to measure the rate of photosynthesis. Oxygen bubbles cause leaf disks to float when they are exposed to light.

Calvin Cycle (TED-Ed) - video worksheet with labeling and practice questions

Inquiry Investigation - what factors affect rate of transpiration - use leaves and evaporation to explore how plants take up water

Stomate and Leaf Investigation - view stomata under the microscope and determine density on upper and lower surface of the leaf

Investigate Photosynthesis with Vernier Probes - explore changes in oxygen levels in plants exposed to light

Use Phenol Red to Observe Photosynthesis - submerge water plants in a solution of phenol red, color change indicates changes in carbon dioxide in solution

Cell Metabolism and Biochemistry

Acids and Bases - basic coloring showing how water dissociates into ions, pH scale

Biomolecules Boxing - students make boxes showing the four biomolecules of life and use the boxes to practice structure and functions

Enzyme Lab - use liver to show how catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, bubbling is used to measure the reaction at different temperatures.

Analyzing Graphics - Enzymes - shows substrates and enzyme interactions and explores competitive inhibition

Observe Catalase Activity in Yeast - create sodium alginate spheres to observe how catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide

Enzyme Activity Using Toothpickase - simulate the activity of an enzyme by breaking toothpicks.

Organic Compounds - concept map, students fill in terms related to organic chemistry (carbohydrates, nucleotides..etc

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A collection of worksheets and resources related to the cell. Includes information on plant cells, animal cells, and bacteria cells.

# data[].attributes.body
Utilize online platforms to create interactive quizzes on animal and plant cell structures. Visual aids can help reinforce the learning and provide instant feedback, making it a fun learning experience.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
All GCSE Science quizzes Teacher tools

Lesson ideas Metacognition Countdown Teacher Planner 2022-23
Video previews
Animations preview Accessing the animations Quizzes and activities Assigning quizzes Monitoring student progress
Order - 6 month online licence Order - 1 year online licence Contact

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cells and cell structure quiz questions - Footprints-Science | GCSE science animations and quizzes | GCSE science revision

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
All GCSE Science quizzes Teacher tools Lesson ideas Metacognition Countdown Teacher Planner 2022-23 Video previews Animations preview Accessing the animations Quizzes and activities Assigning quizzes Monitoring student progress Order - 6 month online licence Order - 1 year online licence Contact

# data[].attributes.body
Use animation videos found online that detail the life cycle of cells, including mitosis and meiosis. These videos can serve as visual aids to simplify complex concepts for better understanding.

# data[].attributes.body
Showcase high-resolution images of animal and plant cells from microscope slides available online. Discuss the unique features of each type of cell, emphasizing their differences and similarities.

# data[].attributes.body
Engage students with an online game focusing on the functions of different cell organelles. This educational game makes learning about cell parts entertaining and informative.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Cells

All living things are made of cells! Learn how they work and what they are made of! Cell organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, ribosomes, lysosomes and many more can be found here. You'll be amazed at what happens in each of your cells!

Cell Biology Video Games, Virtual Labs & Activities

Explore the microscopic world of the cell in your mini ship! Thwart Dr. Vial's evil plan to destroy cells as you battle against his army of cell-destroyers! Learn about cell organelle structure and function while having fun! You will learn about the nucleus, nucleolus, ribosomes, rough ER, smooth ER, Golgi, vesicles, lysosomes, and more!

Build a cell and learn about the organelles and processes that make cells work! A great review of cell parts such as the nucleus and mitochondria, as well as chemical building blocks such as nucleic acids, amino acids and much more! Important Notice: CellCraft is working again! Please update your Flash Player if you are still having problems

Test your knowledge of Cell Biology! These quizzes can be submitted online to your registered teacher. Please note: A quiz will not end until you have successfully answered all questions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cell Biology Games, Virtual Labs, Activities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Video computer games, virtual labs and activities for learning and reviewing biology content. Great for students and teachers.

# data[].attributes.body
Use simulations to explain cellular respiration and photosynthesis processes. Through these simulations, students can visualize how plant and animal cells exchange gases and how energy is transformed.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This simulation can be used as a virtual lab for photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and primary productivity. Oxygen levels are monitored in an aquatic environment to measure oxygen production and consumption as part of energy conversion processes. The user can select the number of fish and plants, the light intensity, the light color, and the temperature. Currently, three virtual lab worksheets are available. Visit the Resources page for Word documents or the Google Drive for a fully digital format.

​

Want more of these fish? Check out the merch!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cell Energy Simulation | Biology Simulations

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Simulation to study photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and primary productivity

# data[].attributes.body
Conduct a virtual DNA extraction experiment, highlighting the genetic material present in cells. This introduces students to molecular biology and the role of DNA in cells.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Last Updated on August 25, 2022 by Mostafa

The DNA extraction virtual lab is the most affordable method to simulate an equipped laboratory that offers a realistic lab experience for the DNA extraction process.

DNA extraction virtual lab helps universities to provide their students with an immersive learning experience using the technology of to improve the quality of science education.
But why do universities need to improve the quality of science education?
Actually, the world is growing incredibly fast, which increases the list of growing challenges that will need to be solved by the current and future students.

This is because those students will be the scientists of the future who will deal with the world's great challenges including, but not limited to, , solving and , and of course curing diseases.

Try DNA Extraction in Praxilabs Virtual Labs

Curing diseases need biological experts with a great passion for science and enthusiastic about studying dangerous submicroscopic infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria.

And they must be brilliant in conducting biological lab experiments such as DNA extraction. This is because DNA extraction is one of the essential experiments that must be done to define, classify, and study the infection agents.

So universities around the world must improve their science teaching quality. That can be done by providing a well-training, interactive, and interesting environment in the scientific lab equipped with cutting-edge equipment.

Probably, the provision of these factors for all students in the real lab will be a challenging task because of its high cost, time and space constraints, number of students, and safety risks. But can the biology virtual lab provide the solution?

DNA extraction simulation provided by PraxiLabs

The realistic lab experience of the DNA extraction virtual lab will help the biological students to be ready to do their role after graduation.

They will become more proficient in lab procedures and tools, which leads to better performance and understanding of the DNA extraction process.

Also, it will help students become more engaged and motivated through high levels of interactivity in a game-like environment, which can not be provided in the real DNA extraction lab.

Through the types of DNA sequencing extraction online experiment simulation, students will be able to extract cellular DNA using the phenol-chloroform method, try out cutting edge lab equipment, and learn from their mistakes in a safe and affordable environment.

And in order to assess the students' progress by themselves or by teachers, they will get access to the help of theory pages and quiz questions that is provided inside the DNA extraction virtual lab.

In addition to these features, DNA extraction virtual lab will give them a real-world understanding of the concepts and procedures of DNA extraction experiment without jeopardizing their safety.

So conducting experiments now can be done in a fun and risk-free learning environment using the virtual lab. That lets the students perform experiments and practice their skills in realistic lab experience.

In this article, we will take a quick look at an example for biology virtual labs which is the DNA extraction virtual lab from PraxiLabs.

But in the beginning, we need to know more about DNA by answering some questions.

What is the DNA? How did the scientists discover it? What is the structure of the DNA? Why is DNA extraction important? And how did science benefit from studying it?

And then you can start trying your DNA extraction biotechniques virtual lab.

Deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all living organisms. It is the chemical name for a complex molecule that contains the genetic material of a cell that carries the information an organism needs to develop, live, and reproduce.

This information exists inside every individual cell and is transmitted across generations from parents to their children.

Almost all cells in the human body have the same DNA. The nuclear DNA is the DNA that can be found inside the cell nucleus, and the mitochondrial DNA is the small amount of DNA that exists inside the mitochondria. Mitochondria is a semi autonomous double-membrane-bound found in most eukaryotic organisms.

In 1953 American biologist James Watson and English physicist Francis Crick discovered DNA when they reached their groundbreaking conclusion: the DNA molecule exists in the form of a three-dimensional double helix.

But it is important to mention that there was previous work done first by Swiss chemist Friedrich Miescher, who identified the DNA. He could isolate the DNA for the first time in 1869 while working in the laboratory of the biochemist Felix Hoppe-Seyler.

He was participating in a project that aims to detect the chemical composition of cells. In the beginning, he started his work using drawn from lymph nodes but he couldn't get acceptable quantities for analysis. So he decided to gather leucocytes, white blood cells from pus found on fresh surgical bandages collected from a nearby surgical clinic.

In the course of his work on leucocytes, he noticed the precipitation of a new substance that he called 'nuclein' as it exists in the nuclei of the cell.

After more analysis, Miescher discovered that the chemical composition of the nuclein is different from proteins and other known molecules. He guessed that it has a different and critical role within the cells. After that, Miescher found a way to isolate the new substance from salmon sperm.

Since Miescher's time, there have been many developments made to the methods for extracting and isolating DNA.

Then, within decades following Miescher's work, Phoebus Levene and Erwin Chargaff carried out a series of research efforts that provided more details about primary chemical components of the DNA molecule and the ways in which they joined one another.

Consequently, Watson and Crick's achievement was possible only with the scientific foundation provided by these pioneers.

In the 1950s, Watson and Crick started a fierce competition with many scientific teams to discover the form and structure of the DNA. Then they were joined by Wilkins, who was part of the Manhattan Project that produced the first nuclear bomb.

That made Wilkins feel guilty, as he was one of the makers of death. Therefore, he decided to participate in the making of life to atone for his sin. Therefore, he became a member in a project of discovering the form and structure of the DNA.

Wilkins introduced X-ray reflections that he used to photograph the genetic material to Francis Crick and James Watson after they began their studies on the DNA in 1953. Watsons quickly showed Crick these images. Thus, Crick was able to reach the form of the DNA that is currently adopted: a helical duplex.

Watson also discovered the chemical composition of DNA. Francis Crick, James Watson, and Morris Wilkins won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1963.

And from the 1950s until very recently the techniques of extracting DNA was very complex, labor-intensive, and time-consuming.

But now the methods are different and effective. And with the development of commercial kits and the automation of the process, the extraction of the DNA becomes much easier.

DNA Molecule consists of two long polynucleotide Complementary Chains composed of four types of nucleotide sub-units.

These two chains are held together by the Hydrogen bonds between the base portions of the nucleotides, the chains wind around one another to form a shape known as a double helix.

Each one of these chains is known as a DNA chain or a DNA strand. The information in DNA is stored as a code made up of four chemical bases: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T).

The number of bases in Human DNA is about 3 billion bases, all people sharing the same 99% of those bases.

What determines the information available for building and maintaining an organism is the order, or sequence, of these bases, such as the words and sentences that built up from a certain order of letters of the alphabet.

DNA has an important property that it can replicate or make copies of itself. Each strand of DNA in the double helix can serve as a pattern for duplicating the sequence of bases.

This is critical when cells divide because each new cell needs to have an exact copy of the DNA present in the old cell.

PraxiLabs Helps You Conduct online lab experiments in Science Anywhere Via 3D Interactive Virtual Labs .. Try Now!

Create a FREE Virtual Labs Account Now!

We can define DNA extraction as "Isolation of DNA by breaking the cell membrane and nuclear membrane with the help of chemicals, enzymes or physical disruptions," and it has been the target of a lot of research.

The extraction of DNA is critical to biotechnology. It is the first step of different applications, varying from fundamental research to routine diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making.

The importance of DNA extraction and purification is that they are essential to defining the unique characteristics of DNA, such as its size, shape, and function.

Investigation of the DNA structure and sequence in relation to diseases helped in finding out the molecular basis and cure for various diseases.

DNA study also allowed the production of many vaccines, hormones, and enzymes. as well as it was also very beneficial in the forensic/medico legal entities.

To study DNA it must be extracted out of the cell, Hence; DNA extraction technique is widely used in research labs.

Phenol Chloroform Extraction Method

The DNA extraction experiment in PraxiLabs virtual biology lab is based on the phenol chloroform extraction methods. As it is a well known and widely accepted DNA extraction method for long.

The three main chemicals that are used in extracting DNA are phenol, chloroform, and isoamyl alcohol.

The property of solubility is a very critical property that you can separate any biological molecule based on it, as every molecule has its own solubility in water or specific solution.

So, we can separate the DNA based on the DNA molecules solubility in immiscible solutions , and that is called the liquid-liquid DNA extraction methods. And the phenol chloroform DNA extraction method is one of these methods.

As we mentioned before, the main idea of phenol chloroform DNA extraction method is built on the liquid-liquid extraction of biomolecules.

The solubility of the biomolecules is considered as the base of the entire mechanism. So it is used to denature and remove the protein portion of the cell.

Walkthrough the DNA extraction virtual lab from PraxiLabs.

Chemicals That are Used in The Separation Process

Sometimes the phenol-chloroform DNA extraction method is called PCI or phenol-chloroform isoamyl alcohol method of DNA extraction. That is because this method is more effective along with isoamyl alcohol.
Phenol
Because the phenol is a non-polar solution, the DNA is insoluble in it. But protein has both polar and non-polar group present in it because of the long chain of different amino acids. Different amino acids have different groups present on their side chain.

And adding phenol makes the protein unfolded, as the folding of the protein into the secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures depends on the polarity of the amino acids.
Chloroform
We can conclude the role of chloroform in the following points:

1- The use of chloroform mixed with phenol is more efficient at denaturing proteins than either reagent alone.

2- Chloroform allows suitable separation of the organic phase and aqueous phase that keeps the DNA protected into the aqueous phase.

Application of DNA Extraction

The extraction of DNA is very important to study genetics and diseases and to develop diagnostics and drugs.

Also, it is a critical thing to carry out forensic science, sequencing genomes, detecting bacteria, and viruses in the environment and to determine paternity.

DNA extraction is essential in the process of genetic modification of plants. There are a lot of agricultural companies that use genetic extraction to isolate DNA from organisms with desirable traits to transplant into the plant's genome.

The genetic engineering of animals is a very broad field that starts from editing a single gene to transplanting genes between animals. DNA extraction is also the first step in these processes.

DNA extraction is an important and essential step to manufacture a number of pharmaceuticals. These pharmaceuticals include the Hepatitis B vaccine and human growth hormone (hGh) which are made via recombinant genetics. And there are some hormones created using DNA extraction; the most common between them is insulin.

There are some conditions that can be diagnosed by genetic testing such as sickle-cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, fragile x syndrome, hemophilia A, Down's syndrome, Huntington's disease, and Tay-Sachs disease. It also help geneticists to test .

Paternity Tests

DNA extraction is also helpful for determining the paternity of a child. Whether a person wants to prove they are or are not the father, DNA from both the potential father and the baby can help prove or disprove a person's claims to paternity.

Genetic fingerprinting is one of the most important applications for DNA extraction, where we can match genetic material from an individual with other genetic materials available. Genetic material from an individual can be compared to genetic material at a crime scene, such as blood, for example.

Hormones

Hormones are vital for helping people grow and develop. DNA extraction helps with developing these through recombinant DNA technology. Two major examples of hormones that use DNA extraction include:

Human growth hormones: These hormones help a large number of people with various conditions. For example, people with growth issues, renal carcinoma, or Tumer's syndrome can benefit from human growth hormones.

Insulin: People with diabetes often need insulin, specifically people with type I diabetes. DNA extraction can help with insulin production via recombinant DNA.

The productions of these hormones would not be possible without reliable and exact DNA extraction. Researchers are able to determine the best proteins that can help people with the various conditions mentioned above.

Try DNA Extraction Virtual Lab for Free

PraxiLabs provides the DNA extraction virtual lab for students, teachers, and researchers. Create your and learn genetics by the virtual DNA extraction lab.

You can access the DNA extraction virtual lab using the internet anywhere and anytime you want.

Get Started Praxilabs For FREE

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
DNA Extraction Virtual Lab Experiment from PraxiLabs - PraxiLabs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The DNA extraction virtual lab is the most affordable method to simulate an equipped laboratory that offers a realistic lab experience for the DNA extraction

# data[].attributes.body
Encourage creativity by having students create memes related to animal and plant cell structures and their functions. This activity leverages humor to make learning about cells more engaging and memorable.

# data[].attributes.body
Guide students in a project where they use online resources to create their own models of animal or plant cells. This can be done using digital tools or by planning the project online and creating physical models.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
It doesn't matter where you go to school - home, public, or private - at some point you're going to study cells. When you do, chances are your curriculum is going to encourage you to build a cell model. If it doesn't, do it anyway because it's lots of fun!

There are lots of different ways to build a model of a cell - plant or animal - but these are ten of the best, most awesome ways to make a cell model. Some are edible, some are not, but they're all super cool.

1. Cell Cake

This cell cake is a super fun way to study cells! After all, studying cells is much more interesting when it's delicious!

2. Jell-O Cell

We made a Jell-O cell model many, many moons ago. It was not very pretty or particularly appetizing because we used what we had on hand. My best tip for a Jell-O cell? Use foods like fruits, marshmallows, and nuts as the organelles so that you'll actually want to eat it when you're finished. This one from 123 Homeschool 4 Me is much prettier and more appetizing than the one we made.
photo credit 123 homeschool 4 me
3. Cookie Cell

Another tasty edible cell model option is a cookie cell model. Start with a large chocolate chip cookie (made in a pizza pan for an animal cell or in a jellyroll pan for a plant cell). Then use candies for the organelles or shape them out of fondant.
photo credit Stephanie Harrington
4. Pizza Cell

You can't go wrong with pizza, either. You make a regular pizza cell model or a fruit pizza cell model - or one of each and you'd have lunch and dessert!
photo credit proverbial homemaker
5. 3D Cell Model

This 3D animal cell made from Styrofoam is fantastic! If edible projects aren't your thing or you just want something more permanent, this is perfect. (NOTE: The Crafts N Coffee site is no longer active, but I thought you could still use this picture as a guide if you'd like to make your own styrofoam cell model! Or you can look at the next article about how to make a cell model from styrofoam and clay.)
photo credit crafts n coffee
6. Clay Cell

A clay cell model is another more permanent option. This one from Hip Homeschool Moms is fantastic!
photo credit Stephanie Harrington
7. Sandwich Cell

If you're looking for a simple edible option, try this sandwich cell idea. You could use a large round biscuit or cookie cutter for an animal cell.
photo credit adventures in mommydom
8. Shrinky Dinks Cell

Because my children used to love Shrinky Dinks, this Shrinky Dink cell idea is one of my favorites! I wish I'd found it when my kiddos were younger. The link includes a tutorial for both a plant cell and an animal cell.
photo credit Teacher Thrive
9. Lego Cell

If you've got a Lego lover, a Lego cell model is the perfect fit! My son definitely would have loved this one!
photo credit homegrown learners
10. Rice Krispies Treat Cell

Finally, for one last tasty edible cell model idea, try this Rice Krispies treat cell. Yum!
photo credit blessings overflowing
11. Spielgaban Cell Model

We couldn't resist adding one more.... because it is a 3D Model using Spielgaban educational set.

Bonus!

Add these printables to your study:
Have you made a cell model that I haven't included here? Leave your idea in the comments!
Pin this post so you can find it when you get ready to make cell models!

You Might Also Like

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10+ Awesome Ways to Make a Cell Model - Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
It doesn't matter where you go to school - home, public, or private - at some point you're going to study cells. When you do, chances are your curriculum is going to encourage you to build a cell model. If it doesn't, do it anyway because it's lots of fun!

# data[].attributes.body
Discover the intricate structure of animal cells, including the nucleus, mitochondria, and cell membrane. Each component plays a crucial role in the cell's function and life.

# data[].attributes.body
The cell membrane is not just a protective layer; it also regulates what enters and leaves the cell, ensuring the cell maintains its delicate internal balance.

# data[].attributes.body
Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell, are responsible for producing energy through cellular respiration. This process is vital for the cell's activities and survival.

# data[].attributes.body
The nucleus is the command center of the cell, containing the cell's genetic material. It plays a key role in cell division and the regulation of cellular activities.

# data[].attributes.body
Ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis. They read mRNA sequences and translate them into proteins, which are crucial for various cell functions.

# data[].attributes.body
Lysosomes are the cell's waste disposal system, breaking down excess or worn-out cell parts. They also play a role in defending the cell against invading viruses and bacteria.