How To Make A JELL-O Model Of An Animal Cell

To view animal cells in their true size, students need to use a microscope. However, students can create their own larger-than-life models that demonstrate the inner components and working of an animal cell. There are a variety of projects students can use to create these representations. Working with Jell-O and other bits of fruit and candy can create an animal cell replica that students can enjoy first in the classroom, and then on their taste buds.

Step 1

Follow the instructions on the lemon Jell-O box. Use ¾ of the water that the recipe calls for; this will help the Jell-O firm faster and hold the parts of the cell in place. Mix the Jell-O completely.

Step 2

Pour the cooling Jell-O into a large, sealable plastic bag. Make sure the Jell-O does not fill the bag completely; you will need room to add the parts later.

Step 3

Seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator for about 45 minutes. The Jell-O should be partially hardened.

Step 4

Insert pieces of candy and fruit into the Jell-O to represent the internal parts of the animal cell. The teachers at the Enchanted Learning website recommend using a plum to represent the nucleus and nucleolus, and other food like jawbreakers and raisins to represent the other parts of the cell.

Step 5

Reseal the bag and place it back into the refrigerator until it hardens completely; the amount of time needed to harden will vary depending on the temperature of the refrigerator. When the Jell-O has hardened completely, you can transport the cell without the parts moving around.