topic

Specialised cell

Illustration for Specialised cell
Biology learning illustration for GCSE.

Specialised cells have structures adapted to particular functions.

Let’s learn

Core knowledge: Specialised cells have structures adapted to particular functions.

Link cell structures to functions using cause-and-effect explanations.

See it

A root hair cell has a long projection, increasing surface area for water and mineral-ion uptake. A sperm cell has a flagellum for movement and many mitochondria to release energy.

Try it together

Match cell images to functions, then justify each match from visible structures.

Now you try

1. Explain one red blood cell adaptation. 2. Why are nerve cells long? 3. Compare a sperm cell and an egg cell.

Check your answers

1. Biconcave shape gives large surface area; no nucleus leaves space for haemoglobin. 2. To carry impulses over distance. 3. Sperm is small and motile; egg is large with nutrient-rich cytoplasm.

Practice this lesson

Lesson resources

Browse the available practice activities and worksheets for this lesson.

Open course resources

Your progress

Ready to continue?