Cell Builder

Cell Builder: Assemble Animal & Plant Cells

The Cell Builder simulation challenges students to construct a complete cell by placing the correct organelles in the right context — distinguishing what belongs in an animal cell versus a plant cell. Each organelle, from the nucleus to the chloroplast, is linked to its biological role so learners connect structure with function as they build. This hands-on online activity is designed for life science and biology classes exploring cell theory.

What you can do in this simulation

• Drag and drop organelles — nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, chloroplasts, vacuole, and more — into the correct cell type
• Receive immediate feedback when organelles are placed correctly or in the wrong cell type
• Read a function summary for each organelle after it is placed
• Distinguish plant-specific structures (cell wall, chloroplasts, large central vacuole) from animal-specific ones (centrioles, lysosomes)
• Review the finished cell to confirm all required components are present

Concepts covered

cell organelles · plant cell vs animal cell · cell structure and function · eukaryotic cells · cell biology

Related simulations

• Astrobiology Simulation: Life Beyond Earth
• Blood Circulation Simulator: Beating Heart Explained
• Cell Division: Mitosis & Meiosis Simulation
• Cell Lab: Observe & Analyze Living Cells
• Coral Reef Ecosystem Simulation
• CRISPR Gene Editing Interactive Simulation

Browse all Biology simulations →

Free to use in your browser — no signup required. Found a bug or have an idea to make it better? Tell us.