IGCSE CAIE Biology 0610 2024-2028 Notes

1. Characteristics and classification of living organisms

1.1 Characteristics of living organisms:
MR H GREN - USED FOR FURTHER STUDIES IN IB BIOLOGY
Metabolism - chemical reactions inside the cell, including cell respiration to release energy.
Response - the ability to react to changes in the environment.
Homeostasis – keeping conditions inside the organism within tolerable limits.
Growth – an irreversible increase in size.
Reproduction – producing offspring either sexually or asexually.
Excretion – getting rid of the waste products of metabolism
Nutrition – obtaining food, to provide energy and the materials needed for growth.

EXPECTATION OF THE SYLLABUS: MRS GREN

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 and respond to changes in the internal or external
environment
Growth - a permanent increase in size and dry mass
Reproduction - the processes that make more of the same kind of organism
Excretion - the removal of the waste products of metabolism and substances in excess of
requirements
Nutrition - the taking in of materials for energy, growth and development.