8th Grade Science

Comprehensive study of physical, life, and Earth sciences with scientific inquiry.

Basic Concepts

Cells: The Building Blocks of Life

What Are Cells?

All living things are made up of cells. They are the smallest units that carry out life functions.

Types of Cells

There are two main types of cells:

  • Prokaryotic cells: Simple cells without a nucleus (like bacteria).
  • Eukaryotic cells: More complex cells with a nucleus (like plants and animals).

Cell Structure

Most cells have:

  • Cell membrane: Protects the cell and controls what goes in and out.
  • Nucleus: The control center, holding DNA.
  • Cytoplasm: Jelly-like fluid where cell activities happen.
  • Organelles: Specialized parts that have different jobs (like mitochondria for energy).

Why Are Cells Important?

Cells work together to keep our bodies healthy, heal wounds, and fight off germs.

Cool Fact

Your body has trillions of cells, and they’re all working together right now!

Examples

  • Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body.

  • Plant cells use sunlight to make food through photosynthesis.

In a Nutshell

Cells are the tiny, living units that make up all life on Earth.