Cellular organization

they are made up of cells 

(or at least one cell)

Homeostasis

they maintain a stable 

internal environment

Heredity

they are made up of a genetic code

Response to Stimuli

they respond to external changes in their environment

Growth & Development

they grow and change usually in specific patterns or stages 

(life cycles)

Adaptations

they evolve (or change) over time in order to survive

Reproduction

they produce offspring 

Respiration

 they exchange gases

Excretion

they produce wastes

Movement

they change the position of the body or a body part

Feelings/Thoughts/Memories

they feel, think, or remember experiences

Communication

they communicate with other organisms

Metabolism

they obtain and use 

materials for energy 

(indirectly or directly from the sun)