Levels of Organization
1. Subatomic Particle – particles
smaller than an atom
2. Atoms - smallest component of
an element having the chemical
properties of the element
3. Molecules - the simplest
structural unit of an element or
compound (Ex. H2O)
4. Organelles - a specialized
subunit w/in a cell that has a
specific function, & is enclosed
w/in its own lipid bilayer. (Ex.
Nucleus)
5. Cells – smallest structural,
functional, & biological unit of all
organisms.
6. Tissues - group of cells having
a similar structure & function
(Ex. Cardiac muscle cells)
7. Organs - groups of tissues that
have the same structure & function
(Ex. Heart)
8. Organ Systems - Groups of
organs that have the same structure
& function (Ex. Digestive System)
9. Multicelled Organism - a living
thing made up of organ systems
10. Population - a group of similar
organisms (Ex. Prairie dogs)
11. Community - group of animal
species that live together (Ex.
Zebras & Wildebeests)
12. Ecosystem - a system formed
by the interaction of a community
of organisms w/ their physical
environment
13. Biomes - a major biotic
community characterized by the
dominant forms of plant life &
climate (Ex. Rainforest)
14. Biosphere - regions of the surface
& atmosphere of the Earth where
living organisms exist
Questions
1. Where on the notes do the properties of life
emerge?
2. Do all living organisms have organs?
3. At which level do we begin to consider abiotic
(non-living) factors?
4. A kidney is an example of what?