These first few weeks of our homeschool, we have been studying about the human cell. To be honest, it has been quite some time since I have even thought about the parts of a cell! Seriously, do any of you just sit around thinking about the intricacies of a cell while sipping your sweet tea? Ok. Ok. So, it isn’t on your list of daily conversational topics. I understand.
I really enjoy getting into the nitty-gritty of some topics, and this is one of those!
Cells. They are so beautifully put together! Cells. They each work together to form everything around us and even our own selves.
We haven’t taken the time to study plant cells, but we have studied animal and human cells. I know. Some of you may be thinking, animal and human cells follow the same pattern in make-up. And, you would be correct.
We must remember though, that although the make-up of most cells that form life have similarities there is a difference between humans and all other living things. The main difference is that we humans are created in the image of God and have a living soul. Animals and plants were created by God, but not in God’s image, nor were they given a soul.
“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:” (Genesis 1:26a KJV)
“And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” (Genesis 2:7 KJV)
It never ceases to amaze me how each part of my body works right along with all the other parts. Every part of my body is connected. Just looking and studying about human cells has reinforced my knowledge that we were designed by a loving God.
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that may soul knoweth right well.” (Psalm 139:14 KJV)
Here is what we used for our cell study:
- Worksheets, Cell diagrams, and picture vocabulary cards from Super Teacher Worksheets , Ecosystem for Kids, and Encouraging Moms at Home
- Diagram and Cell activity from my shop
I also checked out Pinterest for a project idea. I found several samples of cell projects. We decided to go with a 3D model of a human cell. My son worked hard at getting it done. He did a great job! (I did learn through this experience, that one must be careful to not overheat the electric knife because it will get quite hot; and when using a hot glue gun, one must have some cold water handy for those most likely little burns on fingers.)
My son also enjoyed getting to see his own cells from his cheek under the microscope. Here is a FREE DOWNLOAD of this activity here.
I have also created some cell diagrams for plant and animal cells for upper grade levels. You can DOWNLOAD THEM FREE here.
Here is what they look like:
We have really enjoyed studying human cells. I hope the activities that we have done in this study inspires you in your study of cells.
These are awesome! I love everything science, especially human anatomy. Great resource. Thank you for sharing. Be blessed.