1.1 Characteristics of Living Organisms

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Notes, summary images, and videos for students revising IGCSE Biology Extended are provided below.

Describe the characteristics of living organisms by defining the following terms:

• Movement: An action by an organism or part of an organism causing a change of position or place
• Respiration: The chemical reactions in cells that break down nutrient molecules and release energy for metabolism
• Sensitivity: The ability to detect or sense stimuli in the internal or external environment and to make appropriate responses
• Growth: A permanent increase in size and dry mass by an increase in cell number or cell size or both
• Reproduction: The processes that make more of the same type of organism
• Excretion: Removal from organisms of the waste products of metabolism (chemical reactions in cells including respiration), toxic materials, and substances in excess of requirements
• Nutrition: Taking in of materials for energy, growth and development; plants require light, carbon dioxide, water and ions; animals need organic compounds and ions and usually need water

Mmemonic: MRS GREN
The following diagram shows the characteristics of living organisms and provides examples.

Characteristics of Living Organisms - MRS GREN
This video describes the characteristics of living organisms and provides examples.

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