The World of Microorganisms

What You'll Learn

All living things share basic characteristics: they grow, reproduce, respond to their environment, and need energy to survive. Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, while animals must eat other organisms.

Key Words

environment
nutrients
prey

Materials Needed

ruler
magnifying glass
paper towels
markers
tape
small pots

Safety First

Use materials only as directed in the experiment.
Keep small objects away from young children.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: All living things share basic characteristics: they grow, reproduce, respond to their environment, and need energy to survive. Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, while animals must eat other organisms.

Step 2 — Do

Create a labeled diagram of what you built or observed.

Step 3 — Observe

Watch carefully for any changes and note the time.

Step 4 — Record

Create a data table to organize your measurements.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

Which stage comes after a caterpillar in metamorphosis?