Communicate scientific procedures and explanations. Use mathematics in all aspects of scientific inquiry. Structure and function in living systems Living systems at all levels of organization demonstrate the complementary nature of structure and function. All organisms are composed of cells - the fundamental unit of life. Cells carry on many functions needed to sustain life.
Specialized cells perform specialized functions in multicellular organisms.
Reproduction and heredity Reproduction is a characteristic of all living systems. In many species females produce eggs and males produce sperm. An egg and sperm unite to begin development of a new individual. Every organism requires a set of instructions for specifying its traits. Heredity is the passage of these instructions from one generation to another.