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Living and Non-Living Things

The following traits distinguish living things from non-living things:

1. Living things usually grow during their life cycle. Note that the word "grow" refers also to non-living things which can get larger. Examples are crystals, stalactites, and stalagmites.
     
2. Many living things move on their own although some, like plants, do not. Remember that motorized vehicles also move.
     
3. Living things need food, water, and a place to live. Almost all need air, but not all.
     
4. Living things reproduce. Things that are not living cannot have "babies."