Cells Pri 5 Science (additional materials) Online Free Guide Singapore

Inclusive tuition for PSLE Science students. P5 Topic Cells for PSLE 2014 Science syllabus, Primary 5 Science Topic Cells. This guide is specific to Singapore MOE SEAB PSLE Science 2014 Syllabus.

Call us for small group tuition. Edukate Tuition +65 82226327.

Inclusive tuition in cells for primary education aims to provide a supportive and accessible learning environment for all students, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. The study of cells is an essential part of primary science education, and it is important that all students have the opportunity to learn and understand the fundamental concepts of cell biology.

Inclusive tuition in cells for primary education involves the use of teaching strategies and materials that are designed to cater to the diverse learning needs of students. This may include the use of visual aids such as diagrams, models, and videos, as well as hands-on activities and group work to promote active learning and engagement.

Moreover, inclusive tuition should also take into account the diverse learning abilities of students. For instance, students with visual impairments may need additional support to access visual aids, while students with hearing impairments may require sign language interpretation or captions in videos. Additionally, students with learning disabilities may benefit from modified or alternative assessments that cater to their individual needs.

The goal of inclusive tuition in cells for primary education is to ensure that all students have access to the same quality of education and that they are given the support they need to reach their full potential. By providing an inclusive learning environment, students can develop a love for learning and gain confidence in their abilities, which can lead to lifelong success.

Cells main guide found here

For more Science guides, click here.

Chloroplasts moves to convert light efficiently into sugar

Chloroplasts are organelles found in the cells of plants and some other organisms that are responsible for photosynthesis – the process by which light energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of glucose. During photosynthesis, chloroplasts undergo several structural changes and arrange themselves in a specific way in the cell, which allows for efficient energy conversion.

Chloroplasts are usually shaped like flattened discs and are surrounded by a double membrane. The inner membrane encloses a fluid-filled space called the stroma, which contains enzymes and molecules necessary for photosynthesis. Within the stroma, there are stacks of flattened membrane sacs called thylakoids, which contain pigments such as chlorophyll that absorb light energy.

During photosynthesis, chloroplasts undergo a series of changes in their arrangement within the cell. Initially, they are distributed randomly throughout the cytoplasm of the cell. As light energy is absorbed by the chlorophyll pigments, the thylakoid membranes within the chloroplasts begin to stack up into structures called grana. The grana are arranged in a precise manner to optimize the absorption of light energy and the efficiency of photosynthesis.

The arrangement of chloroplasts within the cell is closely linked to the position of the nucleus, which contains the genetic material of the cell. The nucleus is usually located towards the center of the cell, and the chloroplasts are arranged around it in a radial pattern. This allows the chloroplasts to receive the maximum amount of light energy while still being close enough to the nucleus to receive signals and nutrients necessary for their growth and function.

Chloroplasts are essential organelles for the process of photosynthesis, and their arrangement within the cell is crucial for efficient energy conversion. During photosynthesis, chloroplasts undergo structural changes and arrange themselves into grana, which optimize the absorption of light energy. The radial arrangement of chloroplasts around the nucleus allows for efficient energy transfer and signaling within the cell.

Chloroplasts and the nucleus work together in the movement of sugar in plants to ensure the survival of the plant. Chloroplasts are responsible for producing sugar through the process of photosynthesis, while the nucleus plays a role in regulating gene expression and providing instructions for cellular processes.

During photosynthesis, chloroplasts use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The glucose produced in the chloroplasts is then transported to other parts of the plant through a process called translocation. This process involves the movement of sugars from the source, where they are produced (in this case, the leaves), to the sinks, where they are needed for growth and metabolism (such as the roots, stems, and fruits).

The movement of sugar in plants is regulated by a variety of factors, including the availability of energy and the needs of the plant. The nucleus plays a critical role in this process by regulating the expression of genes that are involved in sugar metabolism and translocation. For example, the genes that encode for transport proteins that move sugar across cell membranes are regulated by the nucleus.

Additionally, the movement of sugar is facilitated by specialized structures called plasmodesmata, which are channels that connect adjacent plant cells. The nucleus plays a role in the regulation of plasmodesmata function, as well as in the regulation of the size and number of plasmodesmata.

How does a plant use their cell to defend itself

Plants have developed several mechanisms to protect themselves from being attacked by predators such as insects, herbivores, and pathogens. These mechanisms can be grouped into two main categories: physical and chemical defenses.

1. Physical defenses: Plants have developed various physical defenses to deter predators. These include:

• Thorns, spines, and prickles: These are sharp structures that make it difficult for animals to eat the plant.
• Hairs and trichomes: These are hair-like structures that can deter predators by causing physical irritation or entangling them.
• Tough and fibrous leaves: Some plants have leaves that are tough and fibrous, making it difficult for animals to eat them.
• Mimicry: Some plants have developed structures that mimic other organisms or objects, which can confuse or deter predators.

2. Chemical defenses: Plants produce a variety of chemicals that can deter predators. These include:

• Toxins: Plants produce toxins that are poisonous to predators. For example, some plants produce alkaloids that can cause paralysis or death in insects.
• Volatile organic compounds: Plants release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can repel or attract predators. For example, some plants release VOCs that attract predators of herbivores, which can help to protect the plant.
• Digestive inhibitors: Some plants produce digestive inhibitors that can interfere with the ability of predators to digest the plant. For example, some plants produce tannins that can interfere with the digestion of proteins.
• Antimicrobial compounds: Plants produce compounds that have antimicrobial properties, which can protect them from pathogens.

In addition to these physical and chemical defenses, plants can also use symbiotic relationships to protect themselves. For example, some plants have developed mutualistic relationships with animals, such as ants, that provide protection from predators in exchange for food or shelter.

Plants have developed a range of strategies to fight off diseases, including physical barriers, chemical defenses, and immune responses. However, despite these mechanisms, plants can still fail to defend themselves against diseases under certain conditions.

1. Physical barriers: Plants have developed physical barriers to prevent pathogens from entering their tissues. For example, the waxy cuticle on the surface of leaves can prevent the entry of some pathogens. Similarly, the cell walls of plant cells can also act as a physical barrier.
2. Chemical defenses: Plants produce a range of chemical compounds that can defend against pathogens. For example, some plants produce toxins that are poisonous to pathogens. Others produce antimicrobial compounds that can kill or inhibit the growth of pathogens.
3. Immune responses: Plants have an immune system that can recognize and respond to pathogenic invaders. For example, when a pathogen enters the plant, it can trigger a response that includes the production of signaling molecules and the activation of defense genes.

Despite these defenses, plants can still fail to defend themselves against diseases under certain conditions. For example:

1. Environmental stress: Environmental stress, such as drought or extreme temperatures, can weaken a plant’s defenses and make it more susceptible to disease.
2. Genetic susceptibility: Some plant species or cultivars may be more susceptible to certain diseases due to genetic factors.
3. Invasive pathogens: When a new pathogen is introduced into an ecosystem, plants may not have evolved the defenses necessary to protect themselves.
4. Overuse of pesticides: The overuse of pesticides can lead to the development of pesticide-resistant pathogens, which can be more difficult to control.

Plants have developed a range of mechanisms to defend themselves against diseases, including physical barriers, chemical defenses, and immune responses. However, these defenses can fail under certain conditions, such as environmental stress, genetic susceptibility, invasive pathogens, and the overuse of pesticides. Understanding the complex interactions between plants and pathogens is an important area of research in agriculture and ecology, and it can help to develop strategies for disease control and prevention.

Plants help us to make medicine in their cells

The physical and chemical defenses that plants have developed to protect themselves from predators have been the basis for the development of many medicinal compounds that are used by humans. Plants have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, and many of the drugs we use today are derived from plant compounds.

One example of a plant-derived drug is aspirin, which is derived from salicylic acid found in the bark of willow trees. Salicylic acid is a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory compound that has been used for centuries to treat pain and fever. Aspirin is a modified form of salicylic acid that is more effective and easier to use.

Another example is the use of the opium poppy to produce morphine and codeine, which are potent pain relievers that are widely used in medicine today. These compounds are extracted from the latex of the opium poppy and have been used for centuries to treat pain and other medical conditions.

Plants have also been a rich source of antimicrobial compounds that are used to treat infections. For example, penicillin, the first antibiotic, was derived from a mold found on a plant. Many other antibiotics, such as tetracycline and erythromycin, are also derived from natural compounds found in plants.

Additionally, plants have been used to develop drugs for the treatment of cancer, heart disease, and other medical conditions. For example, taxol, a compound derived from the Pacific yew tree, is used to treat ovarian and breast cancer.

Plants can communicate with each other to defend itself from potential threats

Plants have developed a range of strategies to communicate with each other, including the use of chemical signals, electrical signals, and even sound waves. These forms of communication allow plants to share information about environmental conditions, potential threats, and resources.

One of the most well-known forms of plant communication is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemical signals that can be used to attract or repel other organisms. For example, some plants release VOCs in response to herbivory, which can attract predators of the herbivores and help to protect the plant. Other plants release VOCs to signal the presence of a particular nutrient or to warn nearby plants of a potential threat.

Plants can also communicate through their roots. For example, some plants release chemicals into the soil that can attract beneficial microbes, such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Other plants can detect the presence of nearby roots and adjust their growth and resource allocation accordingly.

Interestingly, recent research has also shown that plants can communicate with fungi, such as mushrooms, through a process called mycorrhizal association. This is a symbiotic relationship in which the fungi provide the plant with nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, in exchange for carbohydrates produced by the plant. The fungi can also act as a communication network, allowing plants to share information about nutrient availability and potential threats.

Mushrooms, in particular, can act as key players in this network, connecting multiple plants through a web of underground fungal threads called mycelium. This mycelial network can span vast distances and can allow plants to communicate with each other even when they are physically separated.

Mycorrhiza is a symbiotic relationship between plant roots and certain types of fungi. This relationship is beneficial to both the plant and the fungus, as they exchange nutrients and resources to support their growth and survival.

The mycorrhizal association occurs when the fungus colonizes the roots of the plant, forming a network of fungal threads called hyphae. The hyphae extend into the soil, increasing the surface area of the roots and allowing the plant to absorb more nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and water. In exchange, the plant provides the fungus with carbohydrates produced through photosynthesis.

There are two main types of mycorrhiza: ectomycorrhiza and endomycorrhiza. Ectomycorrhiza occurs when the fungal hyphae form a sheath around the outside of the plant roots, while endomycorrhiza occurs when the hyphae penetrate the root cells themselves.

Mycorrhizal association is a common occurrence in natural ecosystems, and it has been estimated that up to 90% of all plant species have some form of mycorrhiza. The relationship is particularly important for plants growing in nutrient-poor soils, as it allows them to access nutrients that would otherwise be unavailable.

In addition to nutrient exchange, mycorrhizal association has been shown to have other benefits for plants, including increased resistance to disease and stress. The mycorrhizal fungi can also act as a communication network, allowing plants to share information about nutrient availability and potential threats.

Furthermore, mycorrhiza has several practical applications in agriculture, forestry, and land management. For example, it can be used to improve soil health, increase plant growth and yield, and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

Symbiotic relationships

Symbiotic relationships are interactions between two or more species that benefit one or both partners. These relationships can occur between organisms of the same or different species, and they can take a variety of forms.

There are three main types of symbiotic relationships:

1. Mutualism: Mutualism is a symbiotic relationship in which both partners benefit from the interaction. For example, the relationship between bees and flowers is mutualistic. Bees collect nectar and pollen from flowers, which they use as food, while inadvertently pollinating the flowers in the process. The flowers, in turn, provide the bees with a source of food and nectar.
2. Commensalism: Commensalism is a symbiotic relationship in which one partner benefits while the other is neither harmed nor helped. For example, epiphytic plants that grow on other plants and trees are commensalistic. The epiphytic plant benefits from the support provided by the host plant, while the host plant is not affected by the epiphyte.
3. Parasitism: Parasitism is a symbiotic relationship in which one partner benefits at the expense of the other. For example, ticks that feed on the blood of animals are parasitic. The tick benefits from the nutrients in the blood, while the animal is harmed by the loss of blood and the potential transmission of diseases.

Symbiotic relationships are important in ecosystems because they can have a significant impact on the distribution and abundance of species. They can also influence the evolution of species, as partners adapt to better exploit the benefits of the relationship. The study of symbiotic relationships is an important field of research in ecology and evolutionary biology, and it provides insights into the complex interactions that occur within ecosystems.

An animal that is also a plant

Elysia chlorotica is a species of sea slug, also known as the Eastern Emerald Elysia or the photosynthetic sea slug. What makes this sea slug unique is that it has the ability to photosynthesize, a process usually found only in plants and algae.

Elysia chlorotica has adapted to steal and incorporate chloroplasts from the algae it eats into its own body. The slug is then able to harness the energy produced by photosynthesis and use it for its own metabolic processes. This allows Elysia chlorotica to survive for extended periods of time without feeding on other organisms.

Additionally, Elysia chlorotica has adapted to keep the chloroplasts it acquires from the algae alive and functional within its own body. It does this by controlling the pH levels within its digestive system to prevent the chloroplasts from being digested.

Elysia chlorotica is an example of a unique adaptation in the animal kingdom that allows it to harness the power of photosynthesis for its own survival.

Another class of superheroes: Algae

Algae are a diverse group of aquatic, photosynthetic organisms that range in size from single-celled microalgae to large, multicellular seaweeds. They can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including oceans, freshwater lakes and rivers, and even in soil and on rocks.

Algae play an important role in aquatic ecosystems and are an essential part of the food web. They are the primary producers, synthesizing organic matter from inorganic substances through photosynthesis. In this process, they use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, to produce oxygen and organic compounds, such as sugars and proteins.

Algae are also important for their ecological and environmental roles. They are a major source of oxygen, contributing to the Earth’s atmospheric composition, and they are involved in the cycling of nutrients, such as carbon and nitrogen, through aquatic ecosystems.

In addition to their ecological importance, algae have practical applications in many industries. For example, microalgae are used in the production of biofuels, food supplements, and pharmaceuticals, while macroalgae are used as food, fertilizers, and in the production of chemicals and cosmetics.

Algae captures carbon dioxide to lower greenhouse gases

Algae play a role in decreasing greenhouse gases by sequestering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, algae absorb carbon dioxide and use it to produce oxygen and organic compounds, such as sugars and proteins.

Algae can be grown in large-scale outdoor or indoor systems, such as photobioreactors or ponds, to capture and convert carbon dioxide into biomass. This biomass can then be harvested and processed to produce biofuels, such as biodiesel and ethanol, which can be used as alternative sources of energy.

Additionally, algae can be used as a carbon capture technology in power plants and other industrial processes. The algae are grown in ponds or reactors where they are exposed to flue gas from the industrial process, which contains high concentrations of carbon dioxide. The algae absorb the carbon dioxide and convert it into biomass, which can be harvested and used as biofuel or other products.

Plants and its cells have the ability to clean chemicals from the earth

Plants have the ability to clean chemicals from the earth through a process called phytoremediation. Phytoremediation is the use of plants to remove, detoxify, or stabilize contaminants in soil, water, and air.

There are several ways in which plants can clean chemicals from the earth:

1. Absorption: Plants can absorb contaminants through their roots and store them in their cell tissues. Once the contaminants are in the plant tissues, they can be removed through harvesting and disposal.
2. Adsorption: Plants can also adsorb contaminants onto their root surfaces, effectively removing them from the soil. The contaminants can then be removed from the plant roots by harvesting and disposing of the contaminated roots.
3. Breakdown: Some plants have the ability to break down contaminants into less harmful compounds through a process called phytodegradation. This process can be enhanced by introducing certain types of bacteria or fungi to the soil.

Mushrooms also have the ability to clean chemicals from the earth through a process called mycoremediation. Mycoremediation is the use of fungi to remove or detoxify contaminants in the environment. Fungi can break down contaminants through a process called enzymatic degradation, which involves the secretion of enzymes that can break down complex organic compounds.

In addition to phytoremediation and mycoremediation, plants and fungi can also be used in combination with other remediation technologies, such as bioreactors and soil washing, to clean chemicals from the earth.