What is Biology? Exploring Life's Characteristics
Students will explore the defining characteristics of living organisms and differentiate them from non-living things through observation and classification activities.
About This Topic
Students will explore the defining characteristics of living organisms and differentiate them from non-living things through observation and classification activities.
Key Questions
- Compare the ultrastructural features of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells as revealed by electron microscopy, explaining how the presence of membrane-bound organelles confers functional advantages to eukaryotes.
- Evaluate the evidence from electron microscopy and biochemical data that supports the endosymbiotic theory for the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
- Design an investigation using cell fractionation and transmission electron microscopy to determine whether a newly discovered unicellular organism is prokaryotic or eukaryotic, specifying the structural criteria you would apply.
Active Learning Ideas
See all activities→Activities & Teaching Strategies
See all activities
Planning templates for Biology
More in Cell Ultrastructure: Comparative Analysis of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells
Cell Fractionation and Ultracentrifugation: Isolating and Characterising Organelles
Students will investigate the hierarchical organization of life, from cells to ecosystems, understanding how each level contributes to the overall function of an organism and its environment.
8 methodologies
The Fluid Mosaic Model: Membrane Architecture and Dynamic Properties
Students will learn the principles of biological classification, focusing on the five kingdoms and binomial nomenclature, to understand the vast diversity of life.
8 methodologies
Membrane Proteins: Structural Diversity and Functional Roles
Students will explore the diversity and importance of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and their roles in various ecosystems and human health.
8 methodologies
Passive Transport: Simple Diffusion, Facilitated Diffusion, and Osmosis
Students will investigate the basic structure and function of plants, focusing on their role as producers and their importance to all other life forms.
8 methodologies