160 likes | 430 Views
Introduction to Biology. Mrs. Stoops ASHN Fall 2014. Do Now- Answer this on paper. What makes something living? What makes something non-living? Give examples of each. prefix Bio- means Life suffix -ology means study of. Biology. Biology Units. Cells Genetics Organisms Evolution
E N D
Introduction to Biology Mrs. Stoops ASHN Fall 2014
Do Now- Answer this on paper. • What makes something living? What makes something non-living? Give examples of each.
Biology Units • Cells • Genetics • Organisms • Evolution • Ecology
Characteristics of Living Things Eight qualities that all living things share.
#1 Living things are based on a universal genetic code: DNA. • All living things store the complex information they need to live, grow, and reproduce in a genetic code written in a molecule called DNA. • That information is copied and passed from parent to offspring. • The genetics code is universal to all living organisms, that is, they all share the same code.
#2 Living things grow and develop. • Every organism has a particular pattern of growth and development. • During development, one cell divides again and again. • Every organism starts as one cell and becomes unique as those cells divide.
#3 Living things respond to their environment. • Organisms detect and respond to stimuli from their environment. • A stimulus is a signal to which an organism responds (like temerature).
#4 Living things are made up of cells. • All organisms are composed of one or more cells. • A cell is the smallest unit we consider to be living. (An organelle is not alive, but a cell is!) • Cells can grow, respond to their surroundings, and reproduce. • Cells are complex and highly organized.
#5 Living things reproduce. • All organisms reproduce, which means they make new, similar offspring. • Plants and animals engage in sexual reproduction, but not all living things reproduce this way. • Reproduction allows DNA to be passed on to a new generation.
#6 Living things maintain a stable internal environment: homeostasis . • All organisms need to keep their internal environment relatively stable, even when external conditions change dramatically. • Homeostasis- maintaining a balance.
#7 Living things obtain and use materials and energy. • All organisms must take in materials and energy to grow, develop, and reproduce. • In people and animals , that is food. • In plants, that is sunlight.
#8 As a group, living things evolve. • Over generations, groups of organisms evolve, or change over time. • Evolution links all forms of life to a common ancestor. • Evidence of evolution is found in all living organisms and fossils.