What Is Alive and What Is Not?

All around us are things that are living and things that are nonliving. Living things grow, change, and need food and water. Nonliving things do not grow or need food.

Living Things

Living things include people, animals, and plants. They breathe, move, and can have babies or seeds.

Nonliving Things

Nonliving things are objects like rocks, toys, and chairs. They do not eat, breathe, or grow.

Spotting the Difference

Look around your home or classroom. Can you find something living and something nonliving? Plants and pets are living, but your desk and books are not.

Why It Matters

Knowing the difference helps us care for living things and keep our environment healthy.

Fun Activity

• Make a list of living and nonliving things you see during a walk.
• Draw a picture of your favorite living thing.