Assignment - Infographics - 149
A Note on What Makes This an Infographic
A plant cell diagram with labeled parts is a textbook illustration. An infographic about the plant cell tells the story of what makes this cell different - and why those differences matter. Why does a plant cell have a rigid wall when an animal cell does not? What does a chloroplast actually do, and why is it only in plants? Your infographic should answer these questions, not just name the parts.
Objective
Create a narrative infographic in Canva that maps the organelles of a plant cell, explains their functions, and clearly identifies the three structures that distinguish a plant cell from an animal cell.
Content to Cover
Opening: What Makes a Plant Cell Different?
Plant cells share most organelles with animal cells (nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, ER, Golgi, vacuoles, cell membrane). But plant cells have three additional structures not found in animal cells:
Cell wall - A rigid outer layer made of cellulose, found outside the cell membrane. Provides structural support and maintains the cell’s shape. This is why plants can stand upright without a skeleton.
Chloroplasts - Organelles that contain chlorophyll (the green pigment) and carry out photosynthesis - converting sunlight, water, and CO₂ into glucose and oxygen. Animal cells cannot make their own food; plant cells can.
Large central vacuole - A single large vacuole that can occupy up to 90% of the cell’s volume. Stores water, maintains cell pressure (turgor), and helps keep the plant rigid. When a plant wilts, it is because the central vacuole has lost water.
All Plant Cell Organelles
Cover these with brief explanations:
- Cell wall - Rigid support, made of cellulose. Outside the cell membrane.
- Cell membrane - Controls entry and exit of substances. Inside the cell wall.
- Nucleus - Contains DNA, controls cell activity.
- Chloroplasts - Site of photosynthesis. Contain chlorophyll. Only in cells exposed to light (leaves, stems).
- Mitochondria - Produce energy through respiration (even plants respire).
- Ribosomes - Build proteins.
- Endoplasmic reticulum - Processes and transports proteins and lipids.
- Golgi apparatus - Packages and exports proteins.
- Large central vacuole - Water and nutrient storage, turgor pressure.
- Cytoplasm - Gel-like medium filling the cell.
Plant Cell vs. Animal Cell Comparison
Include a clear comparison panel:
| Feature | Plant Cell | Animal Cell |
|---|---|---|
| Cell wall | Yes (cellulose) | No |
| Chloroplasts | Yes | No |
| Large central vacuole | Yes (one, large) | No (or very small) |
| Centrioles | No (in most) | Yes |
| Shape | Regular (rectangular) | Irregular |
Design in Canva
- Large plant cell illustration in the center (rectangular shape).
- Callout panels for each organelle.
- The three distinguishing structures highlighted in a distinct color or marked with a star.
- Comparison table with animal cell at the bottom or side.
Required Elements
- All organelles with functions.
- The three plant-only structures clearly identified and explained.
- Plant vs. animal cell comparison table.
- Title: “The Plant Cell.”