Claims about M'Kenna's Cells

Where can M'Kenna's cells get nutrient molecules to stay alive?

A healthy digestive system moves food molecules into the bloodstream from the small intestine, where the molecules travel to all the cells in the body. Even though M'Kenna's small intestine is not healthy, the cells in her body are still alive. That means they are getting nutrients from somewhere.

In this activity, you will examine this problem closely and make a decision about where you think M'Kenna's cells are getting nutrient molecules. You will review claims written by other students and decide if you agree or disagree with each claim. You will also decide what evidence and information you need to collect to better support your choice.

Set up your notebook to compare claims about M'Kenna's cells.

On your own

1. Three students discuss where M'Kenna's cells get the nutrients they need. Read each of their ideas on the Claims about M'Kenna's Cells  handout. Decide which student you agree with most.
2. Draw a model of where M'Kenna's cells would get nutrients in the event the claim you chose is correct. This model of M'Kenna's cells may be different from the healthy model you drew. Write how M'Kenna's model is similar to or different from the healthy model.

With your team

3. Share the claim you chose and your model with your team. Listen as each team member shares her or his ideas with the group.
4. Use different colored pencil or ink to add to or make changes to your model as you hear your team members' ideas.
5. For each claim, brainstorm evidence you need to help you make a more confident choice. For example, if you disagree with a teammate about a claim, what evidence would prove you right or wrong? Write your ideas about evidence below your model.

On your own

6. Attach Claims about M'Kenna's Cells in your notebook with the question you wrote at the top of the page.