1. Characteristics of Life What specifically makes something alive?

2. Characteristics of Living Things – In order to be considered alive, ALL of the following must apply: 1.made up of units called cells 2.reproduce 3.based on a universal genetic code 4.grow and develop 5.obtain and use materials and energy 6.respond to their environment 7.maintain homeostasis

3. Classification of Organisms Copyright Pearson Prentice Hall

4. Why Classify? Taxonomy – the classification of organisms Allows specifics when communicating about organisms

5. Binomial Nomenclature Two word naming system – Consists of the genus and species names – Written in italics – Genus is capitalized – species name is not Example: Polar bear – Ursus maritimus

6. Linnaeus’ System of Classification Organizational hierarchy from most general to most specific. – Kingdom – Phylum – Class – Order – Family – Genus – Species