What is biology? -ology= study of Bio= life Biology is the study of life! Biology studies living things. Biologists may examine the features of living things and their habitats. Biological research can leave to advances in medical treatments and disease prevention (in humans and other species). Biologists can also propose solutions to help preserve species that are endangered.

Can you think of any properties that all living things share? Properties of Life In order to study life, biologists must determine which characteristics are found among living things. Can you think of any properties that all living things share?

Organization All living things show an orderly structure, or organization. All living things contain cells, and are organized as follows: Organism  Organ System  Organs  Tissues  Cells

Reproduction All living things are able to produce offspring. Reproduction is not essential for the survival of an individual, but it is essential for the survival of a species (a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring).

DNA and Heredity Within cells, a molecule known as DNA can be found. All living things store genetic information in the form of DNA, and can pass this information to their offspring.

Growth and Development All living things have a life cycle that consists of growing and developing into mature states.

Adaptation and Evolution All living things respond and react to their changing environments. An adaptation is any inherited structure, behavior, or process that allows an organism to respond to their environment and survive.

Adaptation and Evolution As the environment changes, some adaptations are better suited to the environmental conditions. Individuals with these adaptations are more likely to survive and reproduce. The gradual accumulation of adaptation over time is called evolution.

Homeostasis All living things undergo homeostasis in order to maintain stable internal environments. Examples: sweating, shivering, sneezing, coughing Any regulation of organism’s body to maintain conditions suitable for its survival is considered homeostasis. Sweating cools you off to maintain a constant internal body temperature.

Metabolism Living things are able to reproduce, grow, develop, respond, and perform homeostasis by using energy. This requires a metabolism- chemical processes that break down nutrients into usable components.