Unit 1: Cellular Origin, Structure, and Function
Overview
This opening unit introduces learners to the tools scientists have used to shape our understanding of cells as the basic unit of life, visualizing cells, the need for compartmentalization in eukaryotic cells, and the origin of eukaryotic cells.
Topics
Unit 1 is divided into the following four topics:
Topic 1.1: Cell Theory, Basic Properties of Cells & Origin of Eukaryotic Cells
Unit 1 Learning Outcomes
By the end of this unit, you will be able to:
- Explain how researchers discovered cells as the basic unit of life.
- Appreciate cellular diversity and the requirement for intracellular specialization.
- Understand the principles of scientific inquiry, and explain how science builds even in the face of controversy.
- Apply common tools used by scientists to visualize and study cell structure and function.
- Apply the scientific method to design an experiment.
- Evaluate whether experimental results support a hypothesis.
- Use information to solve problems and create new ideas based on evidence.
Unit 1 Learning Activities
Each topic in Unit 1 has a series of learning activities designed to help you practice, engage with the content, and apply your knowledge in practical exercises. There are self-check questions throughout each unit, as well as interactive and simulated exercises that you are encouraged to complete. Some completed learning activities will contribute to your graded Assignment for each Unit, which will be identified in the instructions.
Assessment
The Unit 1 Assignment, worth 15% of the course grade, is located in Moodle and includes a Learning Reflection AND a Learning Application.
