Think of your school (IAA Academy):

  • The nucleus is like the Principal’s Office.
  • The DNA is the rulebook or syllabus.
  • The nuclear envelope is the locked office door.
  • The nuclear pores are like office windows through which small things (like messages or air) can pass.
  • The nucleolus is the printing machine that makes ribosomes — like the machines that print your exam papers!

PartFunctionExample / Analogy
NucleusStores DNA, controls cell activitiesPrincipal’s office
NucleoplasmJelly-like substance with chromatin and nucleolusPool water holding swimmers
Nuclear EnvelopeDouble membrane protectionEnvelope holding a letter
Nuclear PoresGates for material movementOffice windows
NucleolusMakes ribosome subunitsPrinting press inside principal’s office

  1. Why is the nucleus called the control center of the cell?
  2. What is the function of the nuclear pores?
  3. Name the components of the nuclear pore complex.
  4. What are NORs, and what do they do?
  5. What is the difference between granular and fibrillar components?