Specialised cells – Guard Cells

# Learning objectives

1: Be able to describe the Function of a guard cell{.info}

2: Be able to describe the Structure of a guard cell{.info}

**Key Elements and scene Summary**

The scene lets students explore and learn about guard cells as specialised cells. The model of the cell will allow students to understand the function of guard cells, how they are adapted to open and close stomata and control the movement of substances in and out of a leaf.

# The Function of Guard Cells{.objective .objective1}

In this section a description of the function of guard cells will be provided. Located on the underside of a leaf, guard cells can change shape to render the stomata open or closed. This is to regulate transpiration and minimise water loss.
Students will be asked to explore the scene and observe the activity of the guard cells. They will be asked to consider the importance of the cell’s activity.

# The Structure of Guard Cells{.objective .objective2}

In this section the structure of guard cells will be outlined. Rod-shaped and found by the stomata of a leaf, guard cells are subject to shape change when they absorb or lose water by osmosis. A less flexible inner side controls the shape as it swells up or shrinks due to water movement in and out of the cell.
Students will be asked to explore the scene and observe the cells as they absorb and lose water. They will be asked to link water loss and absorption to the specific shape change of the cells that lead to the opening and closing of stomata.

# Teacher Resources

### Download Teacher Notes

[](https://avnfs.com/9LHlkAH3SPttV8azMQIAchGTvU3I_zyVNimKZa9yKhM?size=693279&type=application%2Fpdf&name=Specialised+Cells+%E2%80%93+Guard+Cells+Teacher+Notes+1.pdf)

### Student Quiz Answers Document

[](https://avnfs.com/IznAcV14pJWnV96jwneHCu4nsICTSCt3yvWuOb4mEh8?size=406557&type=application%2Fpdf&name=Specialised+Cells+%E2%80%93+Guard+Cells+Teacher+Notes+2.pdf)

### Download Student Quiz Document

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