What’s In My Cell?
Cell Diversity is one of those weird sticking points for me. Everyone has one. Some people are grammar police, but I am a member of the cell diversity patrol. How did this happen? Well, it happened because I saw how many people had no idea how diverse cells could be and it really starting causing some problems in their coursework.
Diversely Adapted
I don’t want to go into all the details because I have already discussed that here. The simple truth is that cells are amazing, diverse, and have modifications that allow them to thrive in the environments in which they were designed to live. What that means is that a bacteria cell, and a cactus cell, and a muscle cell all of have similarities and differences based on their functions.
It isn’t a good or bad thing. Ask anyone that knows about a fecal transplant and you will learn all you ever wanted to know about good bacteria.
I have previously posted a simple packet to help you with cell diversity. I wanted to add to it with a little cell organelle game….
What’s In My Cell?
This game is good for a diverse group of kids. kids that have absolutely zero knowledge of cells or people who think they have it all under control can enjoy this game.
The idea is that each person picks a cell. They have to collect the structures on that card in order to win. Each card has different structural requirements because each cell has different requirements. This game reinforces the idea of cell diversity that can be so difficult for kids to master.
This was a great jumping off point with my upper elementary and middle schooler about cell diversity, but I could see this being used in high school. The more interaction with cellular structure and diversity and the better. This also adds a kinesthetic input to what can be a difficult microscopic concept. I added in some cards to help keep the game a little interesting.
