Tag Archives: cell transport

Awesome Cell Membrane Virtual Lab for Your Students

The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is a thin, semi-permeable layer that surrounds the cytoplasm of a cell. It provides protection for the cell and performs several vital functions. The cell membrane is composed of a lipid bilayer that separates the inside of the cell from the outside environment. In this cell membrane virtual lab students will learn all about the cell membrane.

Cell membrane virtual lab activity.
Click the blue button to download this lab!

Functions of the Cell Membrane

One of the primary functions of the cell membrane is to transport substances into and out of the cell. This process is crucial for the cell’s survival, as it allows essential molecules like oxygen and nutrients to enter the cell while removing waste and toxic substances.

The cell membrane performs several different functions, such as:

  • Transporting oxygen, ions, and nutrients into the cell
  • Transporting carbon dioxide, ions, and toxic substances out of the cell
  • Providing some structural support for the cell
  • Holding proteins like glycoproteins that interact with other cells
  • Separating vital but incompatible metabolic processes conducted within organelles

Understanding the Cell Membrane through a Virtual Lab

To better understand the cell membrane and its functions, students can participate in a virtual lab that explores how different substances move through the membrane.

Check out our post on the Virtual Microscope Lab!

Cell Membrane Lab Procedures

Cell membrane animation
Cell membrane animation image from the website

Students will complete data tables during this cell membrane web quest

Students are asked to complete data tables for each substance, including the mode of transport, the amount of the substance outside and inside the cell, the passageway used, and the amount or type of substance relocated.

The substances explored in the lab include:

  • Oxygen
  • Carbon dioxide
  • Glucose
  • Potassium
  • Sodium
  • Water
  • Enzymes

Observations and Conclusions

Through the lab, students can observe how the cell membrane selectively transports different substances into and out of the cell, depending on the concentration gradient and the substance’s properties. For example, oxygen is transported through the lipid bilayer via simple diffusion, while glucose is transported via facilitated diffusion using GLUT transporters.

Discovering the Lipid Bilayer

In 1972, scientists S.J. Singer and Garth Nicolson proposed the fluid mosaic model of the cell membrane, which revolutionized our understanding of the membrane’s structure and function. The model describes the membrane as a mosaic of lipids and proteins that can move fluidly, allowing for different processes like transport and signaling.

In conclusion, the cell membrane is a crucial component of a cell, providing protection, structural support, and transport functions. The virtual lab worksheet you provided helps students understand how the membrane transports different substances and how it maintains the cell’s homeostasis. By completing the lab, students can gain a deeper understanding of the complex processes that occur within the cell membrane.

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Cell Transport Worksheet

In our Full Biology Curriculum  your students will work through a variety of cell transport worksheets that will help your students build confidence and truly understand  the concept of cell transport.

Cell Transport Worksheet
Get your copy below

 

The curriculum starts with a demonstration that will allow your students to understand how molecules move from a high concentration to a low concentration.

“Thank you so much for these resources! They are incredible!” – Janice 

In this free cell transport worksheet students have to identify which concentration of salt each blood cell was placed in.

Students are also presented with guided notes that will allow you to work through the notes at reasonable pace. Throughout the guided notes students learn about both passive and active transport.

 

“These resources are fantastic for practical application in the classroom!”-Krystal 

Cell transport

Each day your students will complete a bell ringer and reinforce the lessons using cell transport worksheets and exit activities that will help them review the cell transport lesson from the day.

 

Students also explore cell transport using our popular lab where students investigate the impact of salt on plant cells using a real life scenario. You can get instant access to all of our cell transport activities and entire curriculum with a few clicks.

 

You are the BEST place for resources I have ever found -thank you,thank you!!! ❤ -Therese

 

 

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