Cell structures

Use samples of students' blood to investigate osmotic balance, or to see the variety of cells in this unusual tissue.

Experiments

• A closer look at blood
  Take samples of blood for microscopic study, either as a stained smear, or to show the effects on blood cells of changing the osmotic potential of plasma.
• Investigating the effect of temperature on plant cell membranes
  Heat a series of pieces of cores cut from beetroot at different temperatures and observe how much pigment leaks from the tissue. Use a colorimeter if available.