AP Biology (Mader), 11th Edition

Chapter 4: Cell Structure and Function

Learning Outcomes

4.1 Cellular Level of Organization

1. Explain why cells are the basic unit of life.
2. List the tenets of cell theory.
3. Compare surface-area-to-volume ratios for large and small cells.

4.2 Prokaryotic Cells

1. Examine the evolutionary relatedness of prokaryotes, eukaryotes, and archaeans.
2. Describe the fundamental components of a bacterial cell.

4.3 Introducing Eukaryotic Cells

1. Explain how membranes compartmentalize a cell.
2. Examine how organelles divide cellular work.
3. Apply the endosymbiosis theory to eukaryotic cell structure.

4.4 The Nucleus and Ribosomes

1. Describe the structure and function of the nucleus.
2. Distinguish the flow of information from DNA to a protein.
3. Explain the role of ribosomes in protein synthesis.

4.5 The Endomembrane System

1. Explain the importance of the endomembrane system in cellular function.
2. Examine how ER, Golgi, and lysosome membranes differ from one another.
3. Describe how endomembrane vesicles are able to fuse with organelles.

4.6 Other Vesicles and Vacuoles

1. Describe the role of peroxisomes and vacuoles in cell function.
2. Contrast peroxisomes and vacuoles with endomembrane organelles.

4.7 The Energy-Related Organelles

1. Compare the energy management of cellular respiration versus photosynthesis.
2. Describe the evidence that suggests chloroplasts and mitochondria are derived from ancient bacteria and endosymbiosis.
3. Explain why increased membrane surface area is necessary for chloroplast and mitochondrial function.

4.8 The Cytoskeleton

1. Compare the structure and function of actin filaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules.
2. Describe how motor molecules interact with cytoskeletal elements to produce movement.
3. Explain the diverse roles of microtubules within the cell.