Cell Theory Project (6th Grade)

Cells are the basic units of life and make up all living organisms. Over time, scientists used observations and new technology to develop Cell Theory, which explains how living things are made of cells. In this project, you will investigate how scientific discoveries contributed to the development of Cell Theory, compare different types of cells and organisms, and examine how living things obtain energy to survive.

Standards Alignment:

Texas TEKS (New Standards):

• 6.13A – Identify and explain how the contributions of scientists and advancements in technology led to the development of Cell Theory
• 6.13B – Compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, including how organisms obtain food and energy as autotrophs or heterotrophs

NGSS (Middle School Life Science):

• MS-LS1-1 – Conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells, either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells
• MS-LS1-2 – Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to cell function
• LS1.A – Structure and Function

Facilitator Key Included