Specialized Cell Design Challenge
The shape of a cell reveals its function. Designing and building a
model or simulation of a cell will allow you to begin to think about
the relationship between a cell’s structure and its function.
Specialized cells vary widely with respect to:
 shape, size, number of organelles, types of
organelles
Challenge:



Determine a desired function for your cell
o It must be a NEW function in the human body.
Determine the shape, size, number and types of organelles required for your cell required to perform
its NEW function
Create a 3D model, infographic or drawing (only for those very artistically inclined) of your cell
Design Requirements:
 It will include organelles covered in class and any unique parts. For example, some special parts of
nerve cells are dendrites, the axon and a myelin sheath. You may use parts from other specialized cells.
 The parts should be accurate for shape, size and location inside the cell. They should look similar to
the diagrams of cells. The parts should reflect the relative size inside a real cell. For example, the
nucleus should be very large compared to ribosomes.
 All parts should be labeled clearly and with correct spelling. A
legend/key may be used.
 It will be large enough to easily distinguish all the parts.
o Models NO larger 50cm x 50cm, drawing & infographics no
larger than a Bristol board.
Written Requirements:
1. What is the unique function of your cell and why is it a needed
function?
2. Describe the special structure(s) of your cell.
Feature  explain (more, longer, larger…. NOT WHY)
3. How do these special features make it suited for its function?
Feature  function, explanation of why required/how helpful
Parts adapted from https://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjAmrz46jOAhVG5YMKHeqyAE0QFgg3MAU&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomery.k12.ky.us%2Fuserfiles%2F1555%2FClasses%2F47879%2F%2Fuserfiles%2F1555%2Fmy%2520files%2Fspecialized%2520cell%2520model%2520
rubric.docx%3Fid%3D541211&usg=AFQjCNEAKgznNIzDX75bvKeiwYvg9UozSg&sig2=oYL9FBkQtAWCGiiIqi-H_A&bvm=bv.128987424,d.amc
Names:
________________________________
Specialized Cell Design Challenge
**be sure to upload a picture of your cell to OneNote**
Design
Main/key organelles are present as well as unique parts for specific function.
/10
Organelles accurate for shape, size and location inside the cell.
They look similar to cell diagrams and reflect relative sizes.
/5
Clarity: Organelle labels/key/legend is clear and easy to use.
Easy to distinguish different parts of cell.
/3
Professionalism (neat, carefully constructed, planning evident…)
/5
Written Answers
Describe the function of your cell.
/3
Describe the special structure(s) of your cell.
/3
How do these special features make it suited for its function?
/5
Total .
/34
Parts adapted from https://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjAmrz46jOAhVG5YMKHeqyAE0QFgg3MAU&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomery.k12.ky.us%2Fuserfiles%2F1555%2FClasses%2F47879%2F%2Fuserfiles%2F1555%2Fmy%2520files%2Fspecialized%2520cell%2520model%2520
rubric.docx%3Fid%3D541211&usg=AFQjCNEAKgznNIzDX75bvKeiwYvg9UozSg&sig2=oYL9FBkQtAWCGiiIqi-H_A&bvm=bv.128987424,d.amc