Weekly Blog 10/16/16 - Mitosis

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/43/Mitosis_diagram.jpg

Summary

Mitosis is a phase in the cell cycle. There are 6 stages within mitosis. It all starts at interphase, where the cell grows and develops. The next stage is prophase. In prophase, the chromosomes condense, spindle fibers form between centrioles, and the nuclear membrane dissolves. During metaphase, the spindle fibers get attached to the chromosomes which gets pulled into a line along the center of the cell. In the fourth stage, anaphase, the centromeres split and the spindle fibers pull the chromatids until they reach the opposite poles. In the fifth stage, telophase, the chromosomes uncoil, and a new nuclear envelope forms, the spindle fibers also disappear. During the 6th and final stage, cytokinesis, the cytoplasm of the cell completely splits in half creating two whole cells. Mitosis is the process of cell division.

SP2: Developing and using models

I developed a model when the class created a mitosis flip book. To develop the model, I had to draw each stage in six different squares and individually cut each of them out. There were about 36 squares in total. The amount of times I had to fill in a square helped imprint the information into my brain. I used the flip book to help myself visualize the whole process of cell division so I can better understand what's happening inside me right now.

XCC: Systems & System Models

Cells make up tissues which make up organs which make up systems which make up organisms. In your body, different systems such as your circulatory, respiratory, digestive, and skeletal help you function and live. All of these different systems work together to create you. In order to function properly, you need all of these different systems or parts. Each system can be broken down into cells. In fact, within a cell are a ton more parts called organelles. The organelles work together to help the cell function so you can ultimately function also. For example, the cell membrane protects inside of the cell and monitors what will go in and out of the cell. Without the cell wall, harmful substances would enter hurting the other organelle and cell as a whole. In conclusion, your body is a big system with many smaller systems and parts inside. All of these parts and systems work together to ensure you are functioning smoothly.