Defining Characteristics of Life

1. All living things are composed of cells. http://gmgmesjwk.pbworks.com/f/ksjakja.bmp

2. Living things have different levels of organization From simple to more complex Example: Organelles  Cells  Tissues Organs  Etc… http://anatomyandphysiologyi.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/levels-of-structural-organization.jpg

3. Living things consume energy. http://www.factmonster.com/images/photosynthesis.gif

4. Living things respond to stimuli Behavior = Response to environment Example: Mimosa pudica

5. Living things grow Cells continue to grow until they reach a certain size, then they divide. Organisms grow as their cells divide (they accumulate more cells).

6. Living things reproduce Asexual or sexual reproduction http://i.imgur.com/LXMPxIi.jpg

7. Living things adapt Adaptations allow individuals to be better suited to their environment. Species adapt over generations in response to environmental stressors.