Describe the differences between a plant cell and an animal cell in terms of their structures.

Eduqas GCSE Biology — 1.1.1 Cell structure and organisation · Describe · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Model answer (4 marks)

Plant cells have a rigid cell wall made of cellulose, whereas animal cells lack a cell wall.
Plant cells contain a large permanent central vacuole filled with cell sap, while animal cells have only small, temporary vacuoles.
Plant cells possess chloroplasts for photosynthesis; animal cells do not.
Plant cells therefore have a regular, fixed shape, whereas animal cells have an irregular, variable shape.

Examiner tips

Use the exact terms: cell wall, cellulose, permanent vacuole, chloroplasts, regular shape.
Show each point separately to match the four marks.
Mention the absence in animal cells to demonstrate contrast.

Common mistakes

Confusing the presence of a cell wall in animal cells.
Forgetting that animal cells have only temporary vacuoles.
Using vague terms like ‘different’ instead of specific structures.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

Plant cells have a cell wall (made of cellulose) but animal cells do not
Plant cells have a permanent vacuole (containing cell sap) but animal cells do not have a permanent vacuole
Plant cells contain chloroplasts but animal cells do not
Plant cells have a regular/fixed shape whereas animal cells have an irregular shape

Key terms in this question

plant cell · animal cell