Cell Organelles Station Lab - New TEKS 8.13A

This student-led, modular station lab supports the 2021 TEKS 8.13A standard by helping middle school students explore and model the functions of key cell organelles. Students will investigate the roles of the cell membrane, cell wall, nucleus, ribosomes, cytoplasm, mitochondria, chloroplasts, and vacuoles in both plant and animal cells. With multimodal input and output stations, this lab creates an engaging, differentiated learning experience while teachers guide rather than direct—making it a low-prep, high-impact lesson.

Structure & Differentiation

• Nine total stations: eight differentiated core activities plus one enrichment station for early finishers

• Designed to support diverse learners—scaffolded readings and tasks for remediation, enrichment activities for advanced students

• Includes station signage, task cards, readings, and resources to promote independent and small-group learning

• The Explore It! station may require a few simple materials commonly found in classrooms

Station Breakdown

Input Stations (building knowledge):

• Explore It! – Hands-on demonstration; digital version includes interactive elements in PowerPoint or Google Slides

• Watch It! – Short video with comprehension prompts

• Read It! – Differentiated passages (English & Spanish) with vocabulary and comprehension checks

• Research It! – Facts, images, and graphs paired with structured student questions

Output Stations (demonstrating knowledge):

• Organize It! – Sorting and categorization activities using manipulatives or digital tools

• Illustrate It! – Drawing/sketching cell organelles to reinforce understanding

• Write It! – Short-answer prompts requiring complete sentences

• Assess It! – Task cards and vocabulary-in-context activities to measure mastery

Bonus Station:

• Challenge It! – Crosswords, puzzles, games, and mini-projects for enrichment or advanced learners

Flexible Implementation

This lab is fully adaptable for in-class or virtual learning. Files are compatible with PowerPoint and Google Slides, making them easy to integrate into blended or online classrooms.

This is a finished product; it will be updated with corrections as needed. Future improvements and new features will be sold as a separate product.