Basic Cell Parts & Functions

The cell is the smallest unit of life. It is the building block from which all living things are made.  Cells are so small that you need to use a microscope to see them.   Every human, animal and plant is made up of trillions of cells.  Inside each cell there are tiny parts called organelles. Each organelle has a specific job to do in the cell.

The cell membrane is a protective barrier for the cell. It provides structure for the cell. It is semi-permeable so that it can only let certain molecules enter and exit the cell.    You can think of it like the skin of the cell.    

The nucleus controls the activities of the cell. It also contains the cell's hereditary material, or DNA.   You can think of it like the brain of the cell. 

The vacuole holds water in the cell. It also holds waste that  might hurt the cell. Plants cells have larger vacuoles then those in animal cells.  You can think of it like a storage compartment of the cell.

The mitochondrion takes in nutrients and turns it into energy for the cell. It also helps the cell to breathe.  You can think of it like the powerhouse of the cell.

The cytoplasm a gel-like (jelly-like) substance that fills the cell and holds all the cell parts in place. It is made up of mostly water and salt.  You can think of it like the glue of the cell.