ALEX Learning Activity

Students will use evidence and reasoning to construct an explanation describing the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. During this learning experience, the students will watch a video from Britannica Middle School to learn more about prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and add the information to their K-W-L chart. The activity culminates with a class discussion of the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

This learning activity was created as a result of the ALEX - Alabama Virtual Library (AVL) Resource Development Summit.

Students will be able to gather information that explains how prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells are different. 

I CAN describe prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

The teacher will model how to create a K-W-L Chart for students to use during the activity. The students will draw the organizer in their notebooks by creating 3 columns. The teacher can model this strategy on their interactive whiteboard or chart paper. Have students complete "K-What I Know" and the  "W- What I Want to Know" as a class.

After students have completed the task, the teacher will direct students to watch the video on prokaryotes using the AVL. The teacher can find the link for the video by searching "prokaryote" on the Britannica School and then clicking on Reading Level 3. Use the "video" tab to find the video.

The students will work independently to complete the "L - What I Learned" column on their K-W-L Chart. Students will write at least 3 things they learned in the "L" column. Then the teacher will begin a class discussion to answer the question “What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?”

Approximate Duration:

0-15 Mins

Materials & Resources:

Teacher: Interactive Whiteboard, Internet Access, Digital Device (laptop/desktop/etc.)

Students: Pencil, and Paper or Notebook

Background Knowledge :

1. Students should have general knowledge of The Cell Theory. 

2. The teacher can use this resource to provide students with background knowledge of The Cell Theory.

3. Teacher Preparation: 

The teacher should review the article and video prior to the activity.

Acceleration:

Students will demonstrate their knowledge of the K-W-L Chart to expand their understanding of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Students will find, read and annotate other articles using the AVL, focusing on the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. 

Intervention: Students will use Think-Pair-Share Strategy to discuss their K-W-L Chart with a classmate. The teacher will facilitate this process.

This activity can be used in conjunction with Wow! Let's Explore Cells (during activity) and Wow! Let's Explain Cells (after activity).