7th Grade Life Science Unit 1: Cell Structure and Function - Academic Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key organelles, cell types, and concepts from the notes. Italicized terms were considered prior knowledge from K-5.

Animal Cell

A eukaryotic cell that serves as the fundamental unit of life in animals.

Bacteria

Organisms made up of one cell that have a cell wall, but do not have a nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles.

Cell

The smallest living organism and the basic unit of life on earth.

Cell membrane

A semipermeable boundary that controls the movement of substances in and out of a cell.

Cell wall

A thick rigid permeable structure that provides support, protection, and shape to plant cells. Can also be found in most bacteria, fungi and algae.

Chloroplast

A membrane bound organelle that contains chlorophyll; the site of photosynthesis.

Cytoplasm

Thick fluid material found between the cell membrane and nucleus.

DNA

Molecule present in all living things; contains the genetic information that determines the traits that an organism inherits and needs to live.

Eukaryote

An organism whose cells have a nucleus enclosed by a membrane and other membrane bound organelles.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a constant internal state in a changing environment.

Lysosome

A membrane bound organelle that digests wastes, cell parts, and foreign particles.

Mitochondria

A membrane bound organelle that is the site of cellular respiration; produces energy (ATP).

Multicellular

An organism that consists of multiple cells.

Nucleus

A membrane-bound organelle that contains the cell’s DNA and that has a role in processes such as growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Organelle

Structures within a cell that perform specific functions.

Plant Cell

A eukaryotic cell that serves as the fundamental unit of life in plants.

Prokaryote

Single-celled organism that does not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.

Unicellular

An organism that consists of a single cell.

Vacuole

A membrane-bound organelle that stores needed materials such as water and nutrients.