Chapter.

1 introducing biology
A. Characteristics of organisms
1. Organisms reproduce and grow
Organisms produce individuals of their kinds/ offspring through reproduction. The offspring grows in size
and often in complexity too. After reaching maturity, the offspring reproducing like their parents do.
2. Organisms obtain food and respire
Organisms obtain food in the process of nutrition. Plants make their own food by photosynthesis, while
animals obtain their food by feeding. Some of the materials from food are used for growth and repair . Some
are broken down to release energy through respiration. Organisms use energy for carrying out vital functions
such as reproduction.
3. Organisms detect and respond to stimuli, and move
Organisms can detect and respond to stimuli in their environment. This ability is called irritability. It enables
organisms to find food , find mates and escape from danger. A response may involve movement.
4. Organisms excrete to maintain a relatively constant internal environment
The maintenance of a relatively constant internal environment in an organism is called homeostasis. This
provides a stable environment for the functioning of the cells making up the organisms. Excretion contributes
to homeostasis by removing metabolic wastes (CO2, urea) from the body.
B. Scientific method for studying biology
1. Making observations
2. Asking a question
3. Proposing a hypothesis
4. Making a prediction
5. Testing the hypothesis
6. Drawing a conclusion
Independent variable: factor investigated
EG presence of rice
Dependent variable: factor measured
EG rate of ripening of each papaya
Controlled variable: factor kept the same, to hold fair test
EG initial degree of yellowing and size of the papayas , size of the containers

It is necessary to set up a control as to ensure the presence of ______ is the only variable that affects the
rates of ______________.