Unit 11 - Cell Division

Previously we learned that all living organisms are made of cells. The cells can be small, simple prokaryotic cells or large, more complex, organelle-filled eukaryotic cells. In this unit we take a closer look at one important life function performed by all cells -- cell reproduction. There are only two kinds of cell reproduction -- mitosis and meiosis. We will see how certain organelles such as the nucleus (and centrioles in animal cells) play a critical role in accomplishing this task. You will also learn the similarities and differences between the two types of cell division. We will also take a brief look at the rudimentary kind of reproduction displayed by bacteria, a process called binary fission.

Instruction this week is straight forward. It will consist of two mini-lectures supplement by several short animations, interactive websites, worksheets, and the project. Our project this week is to make a model of mitosis.

SB1a: Explain the role of cell organelles for both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including the cell membrane, in maintaining homeostasis and cell reproduction.

Specific Assignments:

Assignment 1: . Mini-lecture : mitosis. Take notes, participate in a class discussion. As a class we will fill-out appropriate portions of the Mitosis v.s. Meiosis worksheet (click here to see worksheet) and . Next, access an interactive video that will help you visualize the phases (stages) of mitosis and complete a worksheet entitled Phases of Mitotic Cell Division (see handout). Click here to access the website. Your goal is understand what is happening in the cell at each phase of mitosis and be able to recognize each phase on sight. Finally, click here to access another helpful website that summarizes the phases of mitosis.

Quiz: Mitosis (be able to recognize the phases of mitosis by sight).

Assignment 2: Make 3-D model of Mitosis. illustrating the four phases of mitosis. Read directions carefully and use the illustrations from your quiz above to guide you through the model making process. (click here to see directions and grading rubric)

Assignment 3: Review the phases of mitosis by carefully watching the video (below) entitled "Mitosis." Then watch the video entitled "Meiosis," taking particular care to note similarities and differences between meiosis and mitosis, especially what happens during "crossing over." Review "crossing over" by watching the short video by the same title. Your goal is to know how meiosis differs from mitosis at the chromosome level. Be prepared to discuss what you learn.







Assignment 4: Review the similarities and differences between Mitosis and Meiosis by watching the video entitled "Mitosis vs. Meiosis (summary)" and complete the Mitosis v.s. Meiosis worksheet.

Assignment 5: The role of meiosis in sexual reproduction - mini lecture. Watch the following video entitled "Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction," paying particular attention to the role of meiosis in gamete formation and the subsequent process of fertilization. Complete the Cell Reproduction and Fertilization Activity which summarizes the processes of mitosis, meiosis, and fertilization. (click here to see activity sheet). Be prepared to discuss what you learned.


Assignment 6: Binary Fission -- mini lecture. Click here to see video version of the lecture.

Watch this video on "budding."

Test: Cell Reproduction (paper test).