Why are cells microscopic? The answer relates to the needs for the cell to effectively move materials in and remove waste. In this activity, students will create simulated cells (agar blocks) of different sizes and examine how effectively a substance is able to diffuse into the cell in a set period of time. A special indicator in the cells will allow students to visualize the degree of diffusion. The results will clearly display the fact that a smaller volume creates a more favorable condition for the exchange of material across a cell membrane. Kit contains enough materials for 15 groups of students. Teacher’s Manual and Student Study Guide copymasters are included. Aligned to the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)* Disciplinary Core Ideas: LS1.A Performance Expectations: MS-LS1-1; MS-LS1-2 Cross Cutting Concepts: Scale, Proportion, and Quantity; Structure and Function Engineering Practices: Developing and Using Models; Planning and Carrying Out Investigations Kit Includes: 1 x 75g Agar 1 x 25mL Bromothymol Blue Concentrate 3 x 25mL Hydrochloric Acid, 2.0M 16 Agar Block Casting Trays 15 Plastic Cups 15 Plastic Knives 15 Plastic Stirrers DOT Info: Small quantity exemption 173.4 THIS PACKAGE CONFORMS TO 49 CFR 173.4 for domestic highway or rail transport only *”Next Generation Science Standards” is a registered trademark of Achieve. Neither Achieve nor the lead states and partners that developed the Next Generation Science Standards was involved in the production of, and does not endorse, this product.