Student Models of Cells
There is a lot of value to having students make and design their own models during science class. The hands-on, kinesthetic approach incorporates physical movement, gives students the opportunity to make concrete connections with abstract concepts, and it allows students to express their knowledge in creative and often artistic ways. This is really important, particularly for our students who struggle with traditional tests or writing assignments. Being able to model a concept, whether it’s through 2-dimensional diagrams and drawings, or 3-dimensional build activities, provides an avenue of learning for students that can sometimes be overlooked.
Studying cells is a great time to introduce modeling in middle school. Cells are just big enough to be seen under a microscope but spotting the tiny organelles inside usually requires something more powerful than a typical school microscope. Students can, and will need to, read about the organelles and their functions but adding a fun modeling component to the lesson helps students feel engaged and connected to an otherwise abstract science concept.
In the following video, students are guided through an edible model of the cell. This guided modeling activity is a great first introduction to modeling in science. It helps students understand how modeling works and why it’s important. In this particular hands-on activity, students will think about (and model!) the differences between plant and animals cells. They will also think about (and discuss!) the functions of the organelles.
I like to start with this guided modeling activity of cells, then assign a second cell model activity in which students create their own models using activities of their choosing (you can both the guided lesson and independent lesson here). The second activity allows students to show what they have learned about both modeling and cells with the freedom to let their creativity to shine in anyway that suits them!
Modeling experiences in the classroom, especially those where students get to talk, move, build, are create, is education time well spent!
