Ecosystems
Inquiry into cell function using microscopy imaging (VCE) – At GTAC
A mouse fibroblast cell that has its cytoskeleton (green), mitochondria (red) and nucleus (blue) fluorescently stained
Apply a cycle of inquiry to explore the fundamental unit of life, the cell. Select from a range of staining techniques and experiments to use light microscopes to develop and test hypotheses about the behaviour, structure and function of cells. Gather evidence by capturing images and videos of cells at varying magnification and use your evidence to justify your choice of the next steps in your cycle of inquiry. You will use what you have learned about cells to decide what you want to learn next and select the experiment that will help you to learn this?
Use fluorescence microscopes to explore a case study of disease and test your hypothesis about what is causing the disease. Perform a triple-fluorescence stain to compare and contrast the architecture of mammalian cells from healthy individuals and those with the disease. Record and interpret your results to explain how the difference observed in organelles may contribute to the symptoms of the disease.
GTAC's microscopy imaging technologies promote collaborative inquiry allowing you to share results with your group and to carry out investigations in small teams guided by a GTAC Scientist Mentor.
Prior to attending the program at GTAC, we recommend students complete a supplementary cell structure and function task available on our website. After their visit, students can explore the ethical considerations of mitochondrial donation in a post task provided by GTAC. Click here for more information and to view these tasks.
Assessment Note: This program can serve as context for assessment requirements within VCE Biology Unit 1, Outcome 3 Practical investigation. Students will conduct experiments and record results that can be used to complete a teacher-designed task under authentication conditions back in school. Any one of the following tasks would be suitable:
- A report of a student-adapted or student designed scientific investigation using a selected format such as a scientific poster, an article for a scientific publication, a practical report, an oral presentation, a multimedia presentation or a visual representation.
VCAA VCE Biology key knowledge areas: Unit 1 AOS1 Cellular structure and function
• Cells as the basic structural feature of life on Earth, including the distinction between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
• The structure and specialisation of plant and animal cell organelles for distinct functions, including chloroplasts and mitochondria
Level - Unit 1 VCE Biology
Venue - At GTAC in Parkville
Program runs from 9:45am - 1:15pm with a 30 min break at 11:15am at GTAC.
Approximate dates
Term 1: 5th February – 23rd February
Click here to expression your interest in this program