1.1 Characteristics of living things objects that are not alive (Figure 1.2).

The definitions of
these characteristics are shown in the boxes below and
Biology is the study of living things, which are often
on the opposite page. You should learn these definitions
called organisms. Living organisms have seven features
or characteristics which make them different from now, but you will find out much more about each of
them later in this book.
Growth All organisms begin Movement All organisms are able to move Sensitivity All organisms pick up
small and get larger, by the growth to some extent. Most animals can move their information about changes in their
of their cells and by adding new whole body from place to place, and plants can environment, and react to
cells to their bodies. slowly move parts of themselves. the changes.

Excretion All organisms Reproduction Nutrition Organisms Respiration All organisms

produce unwanted or toxic waste Organisms are able to take substances from their break down glucose and
products as a result of their make new organisms environment and use them to other substances inside their
metabolic reactions, and these of the same species as provide energy or materials cells, to release energy that
must be removed from the body. themselves. to make new cells. they can use.
Figure 1.2 Characteristics of living organisms.

Key definitions

movement - an action by an organism causing a
change of position or place
respiration - the chemical reactions in cells that
break down nutrient molecules and release energy
sensitivity - the ability to detect and respond to
changes in the environment
growth - a permanent increase in size
reproduction - the processes that make more of the
same kind of organism
excretion - removal from organisms of toxic
materials and substances in excess of requirements
nutrition - taking in of materials for energy, growth
and development

Cambridge IGCSE Biology