7th Grade Science

Studying life science, physical science, and Earth science integration.

Basic Concepts

Cells and Living Things

What Are Living Things Made Of?

All living things, from tiny bacteria to massive whales, are made up of cells. Cells are like the building blocks of life. Each cell can perform essential functions such as taking in nutrients, making energy, and getting rid of waste.

Types of Cells

  • Prokaryotic Cells: These are simple cells without a nucleus, like bacteria.
  • Eukaryotic Cells: These are more complex and have a nucleus, like plant and animal cells.

The Importance of Cells

Cells are responsible for growth, repair, and reproduction in living things. They also help organisms respond to their environment.

Why Study Cells?

Understanding cells helps us learn how our bodies work, how diseases affect us, and how all life on Earth is interconnected.

Real-World Application

Studying cells allows scientists to create medicines, develop vaccines, and even grow tissues in labs!

Examples

  • Examining onion skin under a microscope to see plant cells.

  • Learning how white blood cells fight off infections in the body.

In a Nutshell

Cells are the basic units of life that make up all living things.

Key Terms

Cell
The smallest unit of life that can perform all life processes.
Nucleus
The part of a cell that controls its activities.