1. How do we define life?

2. Properties of Life
Are organized, and are made of one or more cells (Cellular Organization)
Maintain stable internal conditions (Homeostasis)
Are capable of Reproduction
Exhibit Growth and development

3. Respond to their environment (Responsiveness)
Pass traits to offspring (Heredity)
Use energy. Metabolism is the sum of all chemical reactions carried out in an organism.

4. Examples
Hummingbirds feed almost constantly to supply energy to their racing wings and hearts.
Metabolism

5. A butterfly emerges from a cocoon.
Growth and Development

6. A Venus Fly Trap closes its leaves when an insect lands on it.
Responsiveness

7. A bacterium divides into new cells every 15 minutes.
Reproduction

8. A child inherits the same color eyes as his parents.
Heredity

9. An elephant's large ears allow the blood in the ears to be cooled by as much as 10 degrees.
Homeostasis

10. A pill bug rolls into a ball when touched.
Responsiveness

11. Earthworms are made of specialized cells, such as digestive cells, muscle cells, skin cells, etc.
Cellular Organization

12. A female frog lays many eggs at a time.
Reproduction

13. A toad burrows in the mud during hot weather to avoid water loss.
Homeostasis

14. An amoeba is composed of a single cell.
Cellular Organization

15. A child inherits cystic fibrosis
from his parents.
Heredity

16. Mitochondria in a cell releases energy
from sugars.
Metabolism

17. Stimulus or Response? The bell rings at the end of a class period
Your dog runs into the kitchen when you open a can
A paramecium backs up and moves away when it encounters an obstacle.
A plant grows toward the window
A baby hears a loud noise
You pull your hand away after touching the hot oven

18. Branches of Biology Biochemistry: chemistry of life
Ecology: how organisms interact with each other and their environment
Cell biology: life on the cellular level
Genetics: how organisms pass traits to their offspring

19. Evolution: changes in organisms over time
Microbiology: microscopic organisms
Botany: plants
Zoology: animals