Cells and MicroorganismsVocabulary

By: Maria Cody

BacteriaA certain type of microorganism.

cellThe basic unit of structure and function in

living things

Cell membraneA thin covering that holds the parts of a cell

together.

Cell walla thick layer that surrounds the

plant cell. The part of a plant cell that gives the cell its shape.

ChloroplastsOrganelles that make food in the plant cell

cytoplasmThe jelly-like substance that contains many

chemicals to keep the cell functioning

microorganismAn organism that is too small to be seen with

the unaided eye

mitochondriaReleases energy from food. The powerhouse

of the cell

moldA fungus that grows on old food and damp

surfaces

nucleusAn organelle that determines all of a cell’s

activities and the production of new cells

organA group of tissues that work together to

perform a certain function

Organ systemA group of organs that work together to do a

job for the body

organellesSmall structures inside a cell that have

particular functions within that cell

organismA living thing that has (or can develop) the

ability to act or function independently.

protistA single-celled or multi-celled organism that

shares traits with plants or animals

TissueA group of cells that work together to

perform a certain function