Every day, we see lots of different things around us, like tiny mice and tall buildings. This article will help you learn about the differences between living and non-living things and what makes them special.
Living things are special because they have certain features that non-living things don’t have. Here are some of the things that make living things unique:
All living things are made up of tiny parts called cells, which are like the building blocks of life.
Even though all living things share some features, plants and animals have their own special traits. For example, plants need water and nutrients, just like animals. But plants also take in carbon dioxide and give out oxygen, which is very important for the air we breathe. Unlike animals, plants don’t move from place to place, but they do grow towards sunlight.
Non-living things are different from living things because they don’t have the features of life. Here are some things about non-living things:
Non-living things can be split into two groups: natural and man-made.
Some non-living things, like certain viruses, can act like living things when they are inside a living host. There’s also a jellyfish called the “immortal jellyfish” that can go back to an earlier stage of its life, making it seem like it can live forever!
Knowing the difference between living and non-living things helps us understand the world better. From the lively animals and plants to the objects we use every day, everything has its own special place in our world. We hope you enjoyed learning about what makes living things alive and how non-living things are different!
Living Things Scavenger Hunt: Go on a scavenger hunt in your backyard or a nearby park. Look for examples of living things and write down what you find. Can you spot a plant, an animal, or an insect? Try to identify at least three living things and describe how they show the characteristics of living things, such as growth or movement.
Non-Living Things Sorting Game: Gather a collection of small objects from around your home, such as a rock, a toy car, a leaf, and a spoon. Sort these objects into two groups: living and non-living. Discuss with a friend or family member why each object belongs in its group. Are there any objects that are tricky to categorize? Why?
Plant Growth Experiment: Plant a seed in a small pot and place it on a windowsill. Water it regularly and observe how it grows over time. Keep a journal to record changes you see each week. How does the plant show it is a living thing? What happens if you forget to water it for a few days?
