Organelle Nucleus
Where found (plant/animal/both)
In animals it’s in the center of the cell while in plants it’s found in the cytoplasm.
What it does in the cell (functions)
It maintains the integrity of the genes and controls the activities of the cell.
Something that performs the same function in the “real world” It works like a CPU sending out messages.
Organelle Nucleolus
Where found (plant/animal/both)
For both animal and plants it’s within the nucleus of the cell.
What it does in the cell (functions)
To transcribe and modify rRNA and integrate ribosomal proteins to form immature ribosomes.
Something that performs the same function in the
“real world” Like an oil refinery taking crude oil and making it into gasoline.
Organelle Cell Membrane
Where found (plant/animal/both)
In animals it’s in the outer most layer of the cell and in plants it’s inside the cell wall
What it does in the cell (functions)
To protect the cell from its surroundings.
Something that performs the same function in the “real world” Like a Ziploc bag.
Organelle Cytoplasm
Where found (plant/animal/both)
The thick liquid residing between cell membrane holding organelles except for nucleus.
What it does in the cell (functions)
Holds the organelles together it also acts as a buffer protecting the cells genetic material.
Something that performs the same function in the “real world” Like hair gel holding things into place but not letting the outside elements penetrate.
Organelle Ribosome
Where found (plant/animal/both)
Free ribosomes are found throughout the cytoplasm while attached are connected to ER.
What it does in the cell (functions)
Read and translate the cells genetic codes then reproduce the proteins that the code represents.
Something that performs the same function in the “real world” Like a calculator.
Organelle Mitochondria
Where found (plant/animal/both)
Found in the cytoplasm
What it does in the cell (functions)