Year 8 Science • AC9S8U01 • Authored homework
Inside Plant and Animal Cells
Compare plant and animal cells by linking visible cell structures to their functions in living things. Answer in full sentences where useful, and use evidence or examples in longer responses.
Part A
Short-answer questions
Define a cell and explain why cells are called the basic unit of living things.
Name two structures found in both plant and animal cells and state the function of each.
What is the function of the nucleus in a plant or animal cell?
Explain the difference between a cell membrane and a cell wall.
Why do plant cells usually have a more regular shape than animal cells?
State the function of chloroplasts and explain why animal cells do not have them.
Describe the role of the cytoplasm in a cell.
What does the mitochondrion help the cell do?
A microscope image shows a cell wall and chloroplasts. Is it a plant or animal cell? Justify your answer.
Write one sentence that links a cell structure to its function.
Part B
Long-answer questions
Construct a labelled comparison table showing at least five similarities and differences between plant and animal cells.
A student sees cells with a cell membrane, cytoplasm and nucleus but no cell wall. Explain what type of cell this is likely to be and what evidence supports your decision.
Explain how chloroplasts, the vacuole and the cell wall help plant cells carry out life processes.
Describe how a microscope can be used to compare plant and animal cells. Include what students should look for and one limitation of using a light microscope.
Explain why a diagram of a cell is a model rather than a perfect copy of the real cell.
A student says, “Only animal cells are alive because they move.” Evaluate this claim using evidence about plant cells.
Explain how the structure of a cell membrane helps a cell survive.
Use an example to show how the function of a cell structure supports the needs of the whole organism.
Design a short practical activity for comparing cheek cells and onion cells. Include equipment, observations and one safety rule.
Write a full explanation of how plant and animal cells are similar, how they differ and why those differences matter.
Part C
Research and understanding task
Research one specialised plant or animal cell, such as a nerve cell, red blood cell, root hair cell or palisade cell. Explain how its structure helps it perform its function, and include one labelled sketch or diagram.