Cells and Cancer: Structure Matters
Understanding how cell structure affects function Exploring the link between healthy cells and cancer Grade 9 Science - 15 minutes
What Makes a Cell Healthy?
Think about what you already know about cells What do you think happens when a cell stops working properly? Share your thoughts with a partner
Two Types of Cells
All living things are made of cells There are two main types of cells Prokaryotic cells - simple structure Eukaryotic cells - complex structure Understanding the difference is important for studying cancer
Prokaryotic vs Eukaryotic Cells
{"left":"No nucleus or membrane-bound organelles\nSimple internal structure\nExample: bacteria\nDNA freely floating in cytoplasm","right":"Has a nucleus containing DNA\nContains specialized organelles\nExample: human, animal, and plant cells\nMore complex internal organization"}
How Healthy Cells Work
Cells grow and divide in a controlled way DNA controls all cell functions Cell cycle has checkpoints to prevent errors Cells repair themselves when damaged Old or damaged cells die naturally
When Cells Go Wrong: Cancer
Cancer happens when cell controls break down DNA damage causes cells to ignore normal rules Cells divide uncontrollably Tumors form when cells don't stop growing Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body
Group Activity: Cell Detectives
Work in groups of 4 Color and label prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells List one unique characteristic of each cell type Discuss: How might DNA damage lead to cancer? Write 1-2 sentences about your group's ideas
Think-Pair-Share
Pair up with someone from a different group Share your group's findings about cell types Discuss: Why is the nucleus so important? How does DNA damage lead to cancer? Prepare to share one key insight with the class
Key Connections: Structure and Function
Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus containing DNA DNA controls all cell functions and division When DNA is damaged, cells can become cancerous Understanding cell structure helps us understand cancer This knowledge leads to better treatments
Exit Ticket
Why is understanding the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells important when studying cancer? Write one sentence explaining the connection between cell structure and cancer What questions do you still have about cells and cancer?