Introduction to Cells
For me, cells is actually broken up into several different units. Our firs unit is just a basic introduction for cells. We cover the Cell Theory, comparing prokaryotes and eukaryotes, comparing plant and animal cells, and the function of some of the organelles. We also have an introduction to viruses; which covers TEK 4.C to compare viruses to cells.
Includes 9 different pages that can be used as bellringers, exit tickets, and pre-assessments. Read this post for more ideas on using them. If you are interested, you can find the key on my TpT page, here.
Biomolecules and Enzymes
I no longer teach biomolecules as one unit, they are separated out into the units they belong with. It is also something I continuously spiral back into what we are learning. We review them a lot!
A liver lab is a great way to show enzyme function because they can see how fast the reaction makes bubbles. It is very messy, but they really get the idea of what enzymes do. The lab is set up to be a class set of copies. The lab data table is what I give them to fill out for the lab. The follow up questions are all set up to be answered CER style. I can’t remember where I originally found this lab, but I love it and have heavily edited it You can read some of my tips here.
Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
Dice are a great way to change up the learning and give students choice in their learning. This game has several pages to choose from. Students roll the dice to see what they need to do. Also, if you have iPads or allow students to use their phones, have them ask Siri or Google to roll the die for them. You don’t loose any and nobody has to chase them around the room!