Cell membrane
Controls what enters and leaves the cell (selectively permeable). Found in all cells.
Cell wall
A rigid outer layer that gives the cell shape, strength, and protection. Found in plants, algae, fungi, and most bacteria.
Cytoplasm
A jelly-like fluid that fills the cell, holds organelles in place, and allows movement inside the cell.
cytoskeleton
A network of protein fibres that supports the cell and helps it keep its shape.
Nucleus
Contains DNA and controls all activities of the cell.
Nucleolus
Makes ribosome parts inside the nucleus.
Mitochondrion
Produces energy for the cell by breaking down sugar (cellular respiration).
Ribosomes
Make proteins for the cell.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER)
Transports materials around the cell.
Rough ER = has ribosomes
Smooth ER = no ribosomes
Golgi bodies (Golgi apparatus)
Modify, package, and sort materials and send them to where they are needed.
Vacuoles
Fluid-filled sacs that store food, water, and waste. Large in plant cells, small in animal cells.
Lysosomes
Break down large food molecules and help destroy unwanted materials or “foreigners.”
Chloroplasts
Found only in plant cells. Use sunlight to make food (photosynthesis).
Centrioles
Found only in animal cells. Help move chromosomes during cell division.
Chromatin
DNA and proteins in the nucleus that form chromosomes.
Cell theory
All living things are made of cells
Cells are the basic unit of life
All cells come from other cells
Prokaryotes
Simple cells with no nucleus (like bacteria).
Eukaryotes
More complex cells with a nucleus (plants and animals).
Cell division
Cells divide for growth, repair, and reproduction.
Cancer cells
Cells that divide much faster than normal cells.
