Living Things NotesJot spot… What are living things like?

The Characteristics ofLiving Things

Biologists use six characteristics to classify something as a living thing.

1. Made of Cells2. Use Energy3. Adapt to their Surroundings4. Respond to Changes5. Reproduce6. Grow and Develop

1. Cells and Organization

Living things are also called organisms. Organisms are organized by cells.The cells is the smallest unit of an organism that carries out life fuctions. Some organisms are made up of one cell, some are made up of many cells.

Each cell contains hereditary material.

Cells are the building blocks of life!

Cells make up tissues, tissues make up organs, organs make up organ

systems and organ systems make up organisms

2. Use EnergyAll organisms need and use energy to live.

Energy is the ability to do work.Sunlight is the source of energy for most living things.

Plants use energy from sunlight to make food, and animals get their energy by eating plants or other animals that have eaten plants.

3. Adapt to their Surroundings

Organisms are adapted, or suited, to their surroundings.

All organisms have features that help them survive in their surroundings.For example: fish have gills

4. Respond to Change

Organisms react to changes in their environment.

The change is the stimulus.A reaction to change is called a response.For example: A bright light may

cause you to blink.

5. ReproduceOrganisms produce more organisms of their own kind.

Reproduction allows organisms to continue living on the earth.

6. Grow and Develop

All organisms grow and develop.Living things change, or develop,

during their lifetimes (life span).One way organisms change is by

growing.Living things may also change in

appearance.For example: tadpoles and frogs

Needs of Living Things

1. Energy2. Food3. Water4. Gas Exchange (oxygen)5. Space/ Shelter6. Maintain homeostasis