AQA Biology Stem Cells

AQA Science cell structure and function

A complete bundle of lessons covering sections 4.1.1 and 4.1.2 of the AQA Combined Science Trilogy specification, focusing on cell structure, microscopy, specialised cells, stem cells, cell division, and mitosis. Each lesson begins with a recall starter, revisiting key ideas such as the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, organelle functions, magnification calculations, and the stages of the cell cycle. Throughout the sequence, students complete a wide variety of activities designed to check, develop, and deepen understanding. Examples of included lesson activities: Microscopy practicals: preparing onion epidermis and cheek cell slides, identifying visible structures under the microscope, and practising magnification calculations with worked examples and unit conversions. Specialised cell analysis: identifying the function of sperm cells, nerve cells, root hair cells, and other examples from the specification, followed by a worksheet exploring how adaptations improve efficiency. Stem cell classification tasks: distinguishing embryonic, adult, and meristem stem cells, evaluating their uses, and completing extended‑response exam questions on ethical and medical considerations. Mitosis sequencing and diagram work: labelling and ordering the stages of mitosis, interpreting data on cell division rates, and applying knowledge to biological contexts such as growth and tissue repair. Across the bundle, students tackle a variety of exam‑style questions, including calculation practice, data‑interpretation tasks, extended writing, and specification‑aligned application questions. Every lesson concludes with a plenary revisiting the Learning Question to consolidate progress and reinforce key concepts. All answers are provided