Plant and Animal Cells
Grade 6 · Science · Cells and Organisms · Maine, USA
Lesson Summary
Plant and animal cells share many parts but differ in key ways, such as cell walls and chloroplasts.
Explanation
Both plant and animal cells have a cell membrane, nucleus, cytoplasm, and mitochondria. However, plant cells also have a rigid cell wall outside the membrane that gives them their shape, chloroplasts for photosynthesis, and a large central vacuole for storing water. Animal cells lack these features but have smaller vacuoles and are more flexible in shape. These differences reflect the different needs of plants and animals: plants make their own food and need structural support, while animals get food from other sources and need to move.
Practice Questions
Q1: Name two structures found in plant cells but not in animal cells.
Answer: Cell wall and chloroplasts.
Q2: What is the function of chloroplasts?
Answer: Chloroplasts capture sunlight and use it to make food for the plant through photosynthesis.
Q3: Why do animal cells not need a cell wall?
Answer: Animal cells do not need a rigid cell wall because animals rely on bones and muscles for support and need flexible cells for movement.
People Also Ask
What is Plant and Animal Cells in Grade 6 Science?+
Plant and Animal Cells is a lesson in the Cells and Organisms chapter of Grade 6 Science. It is part of the Maine, USA school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers Plant and Animal Cells?+
Plant and Animal Cells is taught in Grade 6 as part of the Science curriculum in Maine, USA.
How can I help my child with Cells and Organisms in Science?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Cells and Organisms topics.