Transform the traditional Cell City project into an authentic Project-Based Learning experience that connects biology, systems thinking, and civic engagement.

Move beyond memorization and simple analogies. In this engaging, standards-aligned biology unit, students investigate how the structure and function of living cells can inspire healthier, more equitable communities. Through inquiry, laboratory investigations, research, collaboration, and service-learning, students design a Social Justice Cell and an Environmental Justice Cell, demonstrating a deep understanding of cell biology while applying scientific thinking to real-world challenges.

Rather than simply matching organelles to city buildings, by using this framework students explain how and why biological systems can serve as models for creating resilient, sustainable, and just communities.

What's Included

• 9-Week Biology Unit Framework

• Social Justice Cell Project

• Environmental Justice Cell Project

• Driving Questions & Essential Questions

• Weekly PBL Milestones

• Laboratory Investigation Schedule

• NGSS Alignment

• Common Core ELA Alignment

• Common Core Math Alignment

• Differentiation Strategies

• Sentence Starters

• Academic Vocabulary

• Guided Research Templates

• Graphic Organizers

• Justice Stress Test Challenge

• Service-Learning Framework

• Reflection Activities

• Analytic Rubrics for Both Projects

Biology Topics Covered

• Cell Theory

• Prokaryotic & Eukaryotic Cells

• Cell Organelles

• Cell Structure & Function

• Cell Membrane & Transport

• Diffusion & Osmosis

• Photosynthesis

• Cellular Respiration

• ATP & Energy Transfer

• Mitosis

• Meiosis

• Systems Thinking

Students Will

• Investigate cell structure and function through inquiry and laboratory experiences.

• Develop scientifically accurate analogies between organelles and community systems.

• Explore authentic social and environmental justice issues.

• Conduct research using multiple sources.

• Analyze scientific and community data.

• Design and defend a Social Justice Cell City.

• Complete a meaningful service-learning project addressing a community need.

• Present evidence-based solutions to authentic audiences.

• Reflect on the role of biology in building healthier communities.

Service-Learning Component

Students move beyond the classroom by identifying a community issue connected to their Cell City and taking meaningful action. Service-learning options include researching local concerns, writing letters to community stakeholders, presenting findings to decision-makers, developing educational campaigns, proposing evidence-based solutions, or partnering with local organizations. Students connect their actions directly to biological concepts and reflect on the impact of civic engagement.

This isn't another Cell City assignment.

Students learn rigorous biology while practicing critical thinking, collaboration, scientific communication, and civic responsibility. The project naturally integrates science, literacy, research, systems thinking, and authentic community engagement without sacrificing content knowledge.

Designed around the SnookScience© philosophy, this resource empowers students to see biology as a tool for understanding—and improving—the world around them.

Perfect For

• High School Biology

• Honors Biology

• STEM Programs

• Project-Based Learning

• Inquiry-Based Science

• NGSS Classrooms

• Interdisciplinary Science & Humanities

• Service-Learning Programs

Standards Aligned

• Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

• Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts

• Common Core State Standards for Mathematics

Bring biology to life by helping students discover that healthy cells—and healthy communities—both depend on cooperation, communication, resilience, and every part doing its job.