7th grade Life Science Organelles

Chloroplast

The site of photosynthesis. It is found in plant cells but not in animal cells.

Smooth and Rough ER

The smooth ER contains enzymes that aid in cell function. The rough ER is responsible for transporting proteins. It acts like a highway of the cell.

Cell Wall

Thick, rigid outer wall found in plant cells, but not animal cells. It provides support and protection for the cell.

Small Vacuole

Also known as a vesicle, they are used as storage and transportation vesicles to move materials in and out of the cell. Smaller ones are found in animal cells.

Nucleus and Nucleolus

The nucleus is the boss of the cell. It holds the DNA (instructions for making proteins). The nucleolus is the center of the nucleus where ribosomes are made.

Mitochondria

The power house of the cell responsible for cellular respiration.

Cell Membrane

Structure found in all cells. It is essential in maintaining homeostasis by controlling what gets in and out of the cell.

Centrioles

Structures found in animal cells that aid in cell division.

Large Vacuole

Large storage compartment used for storing water and other materials needed. Larger vacuoles are found in plant cells.

Ribosomes

Responsible for making proteins in the cell. Found attached to the rough ER and free floating in the cytoplasm.

Lysosomes

Responsible for cleaning up the cell, by getting rid of waste. Found in animal cells only. NOTE: Some scientists believe they are found in plant cells but rarely visible.

Golgi Bodies

Responsible for inspecting and packaging proteins before they are shipped out to their target areas.