Studying Life “Biology” BIO 137 – Ch. 1

Biology- using the scientific method to study living organisms; the study of life; the study of the living world. Characteristics of Living Things- all living organisms share the following eight characteristics:

1. Living things are made up of cells. -cells are the basic unit of structure and function of living organisms. 2. Living things reproduce. -sexual vs. asexual

3. Living things are based on a universal genetic code; DNA. 4. Living things grow and develop. -cell differentiation

5. Living things obtain and use materials and energy. -metabolism -photosynthesis 6. Living things respond to their environment. -move to a new area because of a natural disaster.

7. Living things maintain a stable internal environment; homeostasis. 8. Living things change over time; evolution. Video Clip

Levels of Organization in Nature: Biosphere Ecosystem Community Population Organism Group of Cells Cell Molecules

Tools & Procedures: -Metric System and the International System of Units (SI Units) -Analyzing Biological Data: data tables and graphs -Microscopes: compound light and electron -Lab Safety