Usually, microscopes are used in high school classrooms during biology class. However, there isn't any reason microscopes can't be introduced to students in fifth and sixth grades or even younger. Have students look at different types of cells through a microscope and then draw what they find. Students can label mitochondria, cytoplasm and chloroplasm to identify the different parts of a cell.
Using a microscope and a specimen such as an onion, let students see how salt affects cytoplasm in a cell. Have students create salt solutions varying in salt concentration. Have students add the different salt solutions to the specimen and observe the changes made in the cytoplasm. Students can chart and graph the results.
CellCraft is a free, online game designed to teach students about life within a cell. The game is entertaining and strategic because students have to learn about the parts and functions inside a cell in order to keep the cell alive. This game can become a regular part of a biology classroom or be used for special projects and activities.
With household items, students can create 3-D models of plants and animal cells. Students will be responsible for creating a legend and labeling the different parts of the cell. A 3-D model reinforces student learning because it is a hands-on activity that requires critical thinking and careful planning. It also helps students conceptualize cell life better than a 2-D drawing.