Standard 7.L.3: The student will demonstrate an understanding of how the levels of organization within organisms support the essential functions of life.
7.L.3A. Conceptual Understanding: Cells are the most basic unit of any living organism. All organisms are composed of one (unicellular) or many cells (multicellular) and require food and water, a way to dispose of waste, and an environment in which they can live in order to survive. Through the use of technology, scientists have discovered special structures within individual cells that have specific functions that allow the cell to grow, survive, and reproduce. Bacteria are one-celled organisms found almost everywhere and can be both helpful and harmful. They can be simply classified by their size, shape and whether or not they can move.
Performance Indicators: Students who demonstrate this understanding can:
7.L.3A.1 Obtain and communicate information to support claims that (1) organisms are made of one or more cells, (2) cells are the basic unit of structure and function of organisms, and (3) cells come only from existing cells.
7.L.3A.2 Analyze and interpret data from observations to describe different types of cells and classify cells as plant, animal, protist, or bacteria.
7.L.3A.3 Develop and use models to explain how the relevant structures within cells (including cytoplasm, cell membrane, cell wall, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, lysosomes, and vacuoles) function to support the life of plant, animal, and bacterial cells.
7.L.3A.4 Construct scientific arguments to support claims that bacteria are both helpful and harmful to other organisms and the environment.
7.L.3B. Conceptual Understanding: Multicellular organisms (including humans) are complex systems with specialized cells that perform specific functions. Organs and organ systems are composed of cells that function to serve the needs of cells which in turn serve the needs of the organism.
Performance Indicators: Students who demonstrate this understanding can:
7.L.3B.1 Develop and use models to explain how the structural organizations within multicellular organisms function to serve the needs of the organism.
7.L.3B.2 Construct explanations for how systems in the human body (including circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems) work together to support the essential life functions of the body.