A WebQuest designed to teach students about the cell theory and its contributors

1. Introduction
You’ve been awarded a time machine field trip! The Institute of Scientific Thought has awarded
you use of a time machine and want you to aid in their analysis of historical facts about science.
The institute requires that you travel through time to the points in history which were significant
in the development of the cell theory. You will be provided with temporal addresses for
important dates. However, feel free to pursue any additional leads you may find to aid in your
information gathering.
Task
You will be researching the list of scientists who contributed to the cell theory and/or made
formulation of the cell theory possible. Please note details about each scientist (i.e. nationality,
year they were born and died, their contribution to cell theory, where they acquired their
education, and two additional facts). Also find out anything significant that was going on in
history during their lifespan. There will be others conducting research about these scientists as
well, you will acquire a partner and conduct independent research and collaborate on which
scientist you believe made the most significant contribution to the field.
Process
You should begin at the earliest discovery and work your way forward in time. Below is a list of
the individuals and their “addresses” in time. Happy hunting. You should start with this QR
code:

2. A timeline will help you find your way around:
Here are the individuals that you will be visiting:
1. Zacharias Jansen
2. Robert Hooke
3. Anton Van Leeuwenhoek
4. Matthias Schleiden
5. Theodor Schwann
6. Rudolf Carl Virchow
Once you have completed your field trip, find a partner and discuss whom you think should win
the institute’s prestigious trip to the future package to see the ultimate fruits of their labor. The
award will be made based upon yours and your colleague’s’ power point presentations.

3. Evaluation Rubric
PRESENCE 5 4 3 2 1 0
-body language & eye contact
-contact with the public
-poise
-physical organization
LANGUAGE SKILLS 5 4 3 2 1 0
-correct usage
-appropriate vocabulary and grammar
-understandable (rhythm, intonation, accent)
-spoken loud enough to hear easily
ORGANIZATION 5 4 3 2 1 0
-clear objectives
-logical structure
MASTERY OF THE SUBJECT 5 4 3 2 1 0
-pertinence
-depth of commentary
-spoken, not read
-able to answer questions
OVERALL IMPRESSION 5 4 3 2 1 0
-very interesting / very boring
-pleasant / unpleasant to listen to
-very good / poor communication
TOTAL SCORE _______ / 25