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5 Dec 2025

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4 pages

KS3 Biology Revision: Cells and Microscopes Explained

user profile picture

summer @summer_pexs

Every living thing is made up of cells - they're like tiny building blocks that keep us alive!... Show more

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Cell Structure and Function

Think of a cell as a miniature factory with different parts doing specific jobs to keep everything running smoothly. The nucleus acts like the boss, controlling everything the cell does whilst storing all the genetic material (DNA) that makes you unique.

The cytoplasm is where all the action happens - it's a jelly-like substance where chemical reactions take place constantly. Meanwhile, the mitochondria work as the cell's power stations, using aerobic respiration to create energy for all cellular activities.

The cell membrane works like a security guard, carefully controlling what enters and exits the cell. Plant cells have extra features a strong cell wall for support, vacuoles filled with sap (dissolved salts and sugars), and chloroplasts that make photosynthesis possible.

Quick Tip Remember that without chloroplasts, plants couldn't photosynthesise and produce the oxygen we breathe!

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Using a Microscope

Microscopes are your gateway to exploring the invisible world of cells! Understanding magnification is crucial - it tells you how much bigger an object appears compared to its actual size.

To calculate total magnification, simply multiply the eyepiece magnification by the objective lens magnification. For example 10× eyepiece × 40× objective lens = 400× total magnification.

Key microscope parts include the stage (where you place slides), body tube (connects eyepiece to objectives), and focus knobs. Use the coarse focus knob first to get roughly in focus, then fine-tune with the fine focus knob. The iris diaphragm controls light levels for clearer viewing.

Pro Tip Always start with low power objectives before switching to high power - it makes finding your specimen much easier!

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Preparing Microscope Slides

Making your own microscope slides is simpler than you might think! Start by collecting your specimen - this could be anything from onion skin to pond water.

Place your specimen carefully onto a clean slide, then add a drop of iodine stain. This stain makes cell structures (organelles) much easier to see by creating contrast.

Gently lower a cover slip over your specimen to protect it and prevent air bubbles. Finally, place the slide onto the microscope stage and you're ready to explore!

Remember Adding iodine might seem like an extra step, but it's the difference between seeing blurry shapes and clearly defined cell structures!

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

From Cells to Organisms

Your body follows an amazing organisational system cells group together to form tissues, tissues combine to create organs, and organs work together as organ systems. It's like building with increasingly complex Lego sets!

Single-celled organisms like amoeba and euglena are fascinating because they must do everything within just one cell. Amoebas move by growing false feet and eat by engulfing prey, whilst euglenas swim using their flagellum taillikestructuretail-like structure.

Both organisms respire by allowing oxygen to diffuse through their cell membrane and carbon dioxide to exit the same way. They reproduce simply by splitting in two! Euglenas are particularly clever - they have an eyespot that detects light for photosynthesis.

Amazing Fact When amoebas sense danger, they curl up into a protective ball - it's like having a built-in panic room!

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Cell Structure Overview

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Thomas R

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Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

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This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

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Sudenaz Ocak

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In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

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very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

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I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

272

5 Dec 2025

4 pages

KS3 Biology Revision: Cells and Microscopes Explained

user profile picture

summer

@summer_pexs

Every living thing is made up of cells - they're like tiny building blocks that keep us alive! Understanding how cells work and how to observe them under a microscope will help you grasp the basics of all life on... Show more

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Cell Structure and Function

Think of a cell as a miniature factory with different parts doing specific jobs to keep everything running smoothly. The nucleus acts like the boss, controlling everything the cell does whilst storing all the genetic material (DNA) that makes you unique.

The cytoplasm is where all the action happens - it's a jelly-like substance where chemical reactions take place constantly. Meanwhile, the mitochondria work as the cell's power stations, using aerobic respiration to create energy for all cellular activities.

The cell membrane works like a security guard, carefully controlling what enters and exits the cell. Plant cells have extra features: a strong cell wall for support, vacuoles filled with sap (dissolved salts and sugars), and chloroplasts that make photosynthesis possible.

Quick Tip: Remember that without chloroplasts, plants couldn't photosynthesise and produce the oxygen we breathe!

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Using a Microscope

Microscopes are your gateway to exploring the invisible world of cells! Understanding magnification is crucial - it tells you how much bigger an object appears compared to its actual size.

To calculate total magnification, simply multiply the eyepiece magnification by the objective lens magnification. For example: 10× eyepiece × 40× objective lens = 400× total magnification.

Key microscope parts include the stage (where you place slides), body tube (connects eyepiece to objectives), and focus knobs. Use the coarse focus knob first to get roughly in focus, then fine-tune with the fine focus knob. The iris diaphragm controls light levels for clearer viewing.

Pro Tip: Always start with low power objectives before switching to high power - it makes finding your specimen much easier!

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Preparing Microscope Slides

Making your own microscope slides is simpler than you might think! Start by collecting your specimen - this could be anything from onion skin to pond water.

Place your specimen carefully onto a clean slide, then add a drop of iodine stain. This stain makes cell structures (organelles) much easier to see by creating contrast.

Gently lower a cover slip over your specimen to protect it and prevent air bubbles. Finally, place the slide onto the microscope stage and you're ready to explore!

Remember: Adding iodine might seem like an extra step, but it's the difference between seeing blurry shapes and clearly defined cell structures!

44 90
Cells
Cell membrane
nucleus. Just Controls the cell
+ Contains genetic material
Cell wall
cyto plasm
cell membrane
Cytoplasm - Chemica

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

From Cells to Organisms

Your body follows an amazing organisational system: cells group together to form tissues, tissues combine to create organs, and organs work together as organ systems. It's like building with increasingly complex Lego sets!

Single-celled organisms like amoeba and euglena are fascinating because they must do everything within just one cell. Amoebas move by growing false feet and eat by engulfing prey, whilst euglenas swim using their flagellum taillikestructuretail-like structure.

Both organisms respire by allowing oxygen to diffuse through their cell membrane and carbon dioxide to exit the same way. They reproduce simply by splitting in two! Euglenas are particularly clever - they have an eyespot that detects light for photosynthesis.

Amazing Fact: When amoebas sense danger, they curl up into a protective ball - it's like having a built-in panic room!

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

107

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Cell Structure Overview

Explore the key differences between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, including animal, plant, and bacterial cell structures. This summary covers essential components such as the nucleus, cytoplasm, cell membrane, mitochondria, ribosomes, chloroplasts, cell wall, vacuoles, plasmid DNA, and flagella, along with their functions in cellular processes.

BiologyBiology
10

Understanding Biological Kingdoms

Explore the five main kingdoms of life, focusing on the characteristics of eukaryotic cells, including protists, fungi, and their classification. This summary covers key concepts such as multicellularity, heterotrophy, and autotrophy, providing a clear overview for students studying biological classification.

BiologyBiology
8

Cell Structure Overview

Explore the essential components of cells and their functions in this detailed summary. Key topics include the nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes, ribosomes, and cell walls. Ideal for A-level Biology students, this resource provides clear explanations and diagrams to enhance understanding of cellular structures and processes.

BiologyBiology
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Eukaryotic Cell Structures

Explore the intricate structures of eukaryotic cells, focusing on the nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria. This summary covers key functions, including DNA replication, protein synthesis, and ATP production, essential for A-level biology students. Ideal for exam preparation and understanding cellular processes.

BiologyBiology
12

Cell Structure Overview

Explore the key features and functions of animal and plant cells, including the roles of the nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, and chloroplasts. This summary provides essential insights for GCSE biology students, focusing on cell structure and the differences between plant and animal cells.

BiologyBiology
9

Comparative Cell Biology

Explore the distinctions between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells across the five kingdoms: Prokaryotae, Protoctista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. This summary covers cellular structures, functions, and key characteristics, including ribosome types, DNA structure, and nutritional modes. Ideal for students studying cellular biology and taxonomy.

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12

Most popular content: Cell

Most popular content in Biology

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English - inspector calls quotes and analysis

Quotes from every main character

English LiteratureEnglish Literature
10

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user