1. Organization: Living things are highly organized, with specialized structures (cells, tissues, organs) working together to maintain life.

2. Metabolism: Living organisms carry out chemical reactions to obtain and use energy, build and break down molecules, and grow.

3. Growth and Development: Living organisms increase in size and complexity over time. This involves processes like cell division and differentiation.

4. Response to Stimuli: Living things react to changes in their environment (like light, temperature, or chemicals) to maintain homeostasis.

5. Reproduction: Living organisms produce offspring, ensuring the continuation of their species.

These characteristics are all interconnected and contribute to the survival and continuation of life.