Cell Organelles & Functions
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Lesson overview
Identifying cell organelles and what each one does.
Go to lesson quiz →Exam guidance · WAEC WASSCE Paper 1 + Paper 2 Lens
Core idea (Cell Structure, Osmosis, Diffusion & Active Transport): Compare solute/water potential across selectively permeable membranes: passive transport moves down the gradient (0 ATP); active transport pumps against it (uses ATP).
Pacing
Objective speed on Paper 1 + structured step-by-step method marks on Paper 2 Theory/Practical.
How WAEC marks this
Examiners award method marks (M1) for stating the formula/definition and accuracy marks (A1) ONLY when SI units are written.
Watch out for
Writing bare numbers without working or omitting SI units loses up to 50% of Paper 2 marks even when the final value is right.
Lesson content
Overview — Cell Organelles & Functions
Identifying cell organelles and what each one does. This lesson is at the beginner level — by the end, you'll be able to recognise this question type, apply a reliable method, and avoid the traps that cost marks.
Key Concept
A cell is the basic unit of life, and each organelle inside it has a specific job. The nucleus controls the cell and holds its genetic material (DNA); the mitochondria release energy through respiration; ribosomes make proteins.
Why It's Tested This Way
Organelle-function questions appear in nearly every WAEC/JAMB Biology paper because they test the foundational vocabulary every later cell-biology and physiology topic depends on.
Method
To answer organelle-function questions, learn each organelle's job as a short, precise phrase — examiners want the specific function, not a vague description.
Worked Example
Worked example: Asked 'which organelle releases energy for the cell?', the answer is the mitochondria, because they are the site of respiration.
Second Worked Example
Second worked example: Asked 'which organelle controls the cell and holds its genetic material?', the answer is the nucleus.
Common Traps
Common trap: confusing the nucleus (controls the cell, holds DNA) with the mitochondria (releases energy) — learn each organelle's name and function as a distinct pair.
Lesson Summary
Remember: (1) identify what is being asked, (2) apply the WAEC strategy, (3) check against the traps. Complete the 10-question quiz below to unlock the next lesson — you need at least 60% to pass.
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