Assignment: Cell Builder

Create a model of a eukaryotic cell using any material of your choice. In your model be sure to include all the organelles appropriate to your cell (either plant or animal). Once complete, take multiple photographs of your model from all angles. Include these images in a document that also contains the following in table format:

  • A detailed key/legend that matches the model;
  • Each organelle or part with its basic function;
  • A disease or disorder that is associated with the malfunction of each cellular component
  • How this organelle is visualized microscopically
  • References

Note for the disease information, you can list a disease in either animals or plants, regardless of what type of cell you are modeling. In other words, its okay to discuss a “human” disease even if you are making a plant model, provided the organelle is present in both types of cells.

Some suggestions for 3D models include Legos, a decorated cake with candy toppings, or standard Styrofoam base with appropriate pieces attached. You can also draw or illustrate a model. Here is an example of what you might make.

Basic Requirements (the assignment will not be accepted or assessed unless the follow criteria have been met):

  • Assignment has been proofread and does not contain any major spelling or grammatical errors
  • Assignment includes appropriate references
  • Assignment includes photographs or images of created model from all angles.
  • Assignment includes a key documenting how each organelle is represented in the model.
  • Assignment includes a completed table such as the one illustrated in the example document.
  • Assignment includes a disease caused by malfunction of each identified component in the model.
  • Assignment includes at least 7 organelles in the model and table.

Rubric

Cell Builder
Outcome: Identify and explain a variety of cellular components
Criteria Ratings Pts
At least 7 membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells are contained in the model and their functions identified in the table. Organelles and functions are outlined in detail.
5.0 pts
Organelles and functions are outlined in minimal but accurate terms.
4.0 pts
Organelles and functions are mismatched in the table or insufficiently discussed.
0.0 pts
5 pts
The structure and function of cell membranes is included in the model and table. Cell membranes are illustrated in detail in model and discussed in detail.
5.0 pts
Cell membranes are included and explained in the table/model in minimal but accurate terms.
4.0 pts
Cell membranes are inaccurately discussed.
0.0 pts
5 pts
At least 2 components of the cytoskeleton are identified by form and function in the model and table. Components of the cytoskeleton and functions are outlined in detail.
5.0 pts
Components of the cytoskeleton and functions are outlined in minimal but accurate terms.
4.0 pts
Components of the cytoskeleton are mismatched in the table or insufficiently discussed.
0.0 pts
5 pts
At least one cell surface specialization is included in the model and table. Cell surface specialization(s) is/are illustrated in detail in model and discussed in detail.
5.0 pts
Cell surface specialization(s) is/are included and explained in the table/model in minimal but accurate terms.
4.0 pts
Cell surface specialization(s) is/are inaccurately discussed.
0.0 pts
5 pts
Total points: 20