Science · Create & explain
Sculpt a cell from clay, animate it one frame at a time, and show how its structures help it function.
100-point projectClay + stop motionPlant or animal cell
The mission
Create a stop-motion video that identifies cell structures and explains what they do. Use clay models, labels, narration or text, and a sequence of photographs to tell the story of your cell.
Research your cell and plan accurate explanations in your own words.
Sculpt recognizable parts and plan scenes that make their functions visible.
Move your models a little at a time, photograph each change, and edit your video.
Learning target: I can model cell structures and explain how they help a cell carry out its functions.
Your success criteria
By the end of this project, I can:
Required for both cell types: cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and vacuoles. For a plant cell, also include the cell wall, chloroplasts, and a large central vacuole. For an animal cell, include lysosomes. Check with Mr. Alexander about any additional structures.
Your model represents a cell: choose colors and sizes that help your audience recognize the structures. A model does not need to show their actual colors or exact scale.
The studio
What saves: Planner entries stay in this browser on this device when storage is available. Download a copy before leaving or changing devices.
What you submit: Your finished video—not this planner.
Where it goes: Use Submit your video below and wait for confirmation. Check Google Classroom for your deadline and any additional turn-in steps.
Use the boxes and checklists as you work. Your progress saves only in this browser on this device when storage is available; it does not submit or sync. Download a copy before switching devices or using a shared Chromebook.
Plan what viewers will see, what moves, and what they will hear or read. Show at least one connection between cell structures. Include all creators’ names made from clay at the beginning or end of your video, and plan the sound you will add using a video editor of your choice.
Check a structure after you have created it, identified it, and explained its function.
If you chose a plant cell:
If you chose an animal cell:
Your plan is stored only in this browser when storage is available.
Filming tips
Use a tripod or prop your device securely. Mark its position and avoid bumping it between photos.
Take a photo, move the clay slightly, then take another. Smaller movements and more frames usually look smoother. Try a short test first.
Use steady lighting. Avoid changing shadows, and keep your hands out of each photograph.
Secure the background and cell pieces. Photograph a few extra frames when you want a moment to stay on screen.
Use large labels and high contrast. Leave text on screen long enough to read; record narration somewhere quiet and speak clearly. Add sound using a video editor of your choice, and use audio you have permission to use.
Play a short sequence before filming the whole project. Watch the final video with a classmate and fix confusing parts.
Each photograph is one frame. When the frames play quickly in order, the small changes between them create the appearance of movement. Your app may let you adjust frames per second; try a setting and see whether the movement and reading time work for your scene.
Check the camera position and lighting, move the model back into place, and retake that frame or scene. Save your work regularly so you can return to it.
The rubric
Scientific accuracy & explanations
Required structures are identified, and their functions and relationships are explained accurately and clearly.
Clay sculpting & creativity
Structures are carefully crafted, recognizable, and distinct; creative choices help communicate the science.
Stop-motion quality
Movement is intentional and understandable; images, labels, sound, and pacing make the video easy to follow.
Partial credit reflects how consistently each criterion is met. Save your completed video and follow Mr. Alexander’s submission directions.
Share your finished project
Upload one finished video per student or group. Choose an MP4, MOV, or WebM file up to 50 MB. Keep this page open until you see a confirmation. If your file is too large, ask Mr. Alexander for another way to submit it.