Cells and Classification Word List Year 7 MHS

adaptation

A characteristic which helps an organism to survive in its environment.

bacteria

A group of unicellular organisms which do not possess membrane-bound organelles.

biology

The study of life and living organisms.

cell

The basic structural unit of living things.

cell membrane

A thin, flexible layer around a cell which controls what enters and exits the cell (semi-permeable).

cell wall

A tough, outer layer around the cells of plants, fungi and bacteria, which provides support and structure.

chlorophyll

A green pigment found in chloroplasts that is required for the process of photosynthesis.

classify

Arrange or include in classes/categories.

cytoplasm

The contents of the cell (except the nucleus).

cytosol

The fluid within a cell that fills the space between organelles.

fungi

A group of organisms which possess membrane-bound organelles but cannot photosynthesise.

genus

The taxonomic classification above species.

Kingdoms

The highest taxonomic classification into which organisms are grouped.

magnification

A measure of the degree to which a microscope enlarges an object.

mitochondria

Organelles which convert energy through the process of respiration (singular: mitochondrion).

nucleus

A membrane-bound organelle that acts as the ‘control room’ of the cell and contains the cell’s genetic material.

organ

A group of tissues that perform a specific function, e.g., heart.

organelle

A specialised structure within a cell that carries out a specific function, e.g., nucleus.

organ system

A group of organs which together carry out a specific function, e.g., circulatory system.

protists

A group of unicellular organisms which possess membrane-bound organelles and are classified based on their method of locomotion (movement).

photosynthesis

A chemical process that uses sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (sugars) and oxygen.

(cellular) respiration

The process by which a living organism or cells break down organic molecules to release energy.

resolution

A measure of the ability of a microscope to distinguish between two very close points.

ribosome

A small organelle which is responsible for the manufacture of proteins.

species

A single, specific type of living organism. The lowest taxonomic classification, whose members can interbreed and produce viable offspring.

specialisation

The structural adaptation of cells for a particular function.

tissue

A group of similar cells which perform a specific function, e.g., cardiac muscle tissue.

vacuole

A storage area within the cell often containing water, waste and food.

taxonomy

The science of classification of living and extinct organisms.