Living Things Notes Jot spot… What are living things like?

The Characteristics of Living Things  Biologists use six characteristics to classify something as a living thing. 1. Made of Cells 2. Use Energy 3. Adapt to their Surroundings 4. Respond to Changes 5. Reproduce 6. 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 Energy  All 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. Reproduce  Organisms 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. Energy 2. Food 3. Water 4. Gas Exchange (oxygen) 5. Space/ Shelter 6. Maintain homeostasis