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Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, evolution, and interactions with the environment. 1Biology - WikipediaBiology is the scientific study of life and living organisms. It is a broad natural science that encompasses a wide range of fields and unifying principles that ...wikipedia

Major branches include:

• Cell biology — cells and their processes
• Genetics — heredity and DNA
• Ecology — organisms and their environments
• Evolutionary biology — how life changes over time
• Physiology — how organisms function
• Botany — plants
• Zoology — animals
• Microbiology — microorganisms

What biology topic would you like to study?

Variety of Organisms: A Beginner’s Guide

Imagine Earth as a huge city.

• Every living organism is like a citizen.
• A cell is like a tiny house or factory where life processes happen.
• Similar organisms are placed into neighbourhoods, called kingdoms.
• In a large organism, many small houses work together in teams: cells form tissues, tissues form organs, and organs form systems.

Scientists classify organisms because there are millions of kinds of living things. Classification makes this variety easier to study. The traditional five-kingdom system contains Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. 1Five Kingdom ClassificationThe organisms were then classified based on the presence and absence of a cell wall. The ones without the cell wall were classified under kingdom Animalia and the ones with cell wall were classified under kingdom Plantae. Published: October 13, 2023 Views: 17Kbyjus

1. What is a living organism?

An organism is any individual living thing, such as a bacterium, mushroom, tree, dog, or human.

Most living organisms show these characteristics:

1. Nutrition — obtaining or making food.
2. Respiration — releasing energy from food.
3. Growth — becoming larger or increasing in cell number.
4. Movement — changing position, or moving parts inside the body.
5. Response — reacting to light, heat, touch, sound, or chemicals.
6. Reproduction — producing new organisms.
7. Excretion — removing waste products.
8. Made of cells — every organism consists of one or more cells.
9. Adaptation — having features that help survival in a particular environment.

Important idea

Not every organism performs these activities in exactly the same way.

• A plant does not walk, but it can grow toward light.
• A bacterium may reproduce by splitting into two.
• A mushroom cannot make its own food, so it absorbs nutrients from its surroundings.

2. The cell: the basic unit of life

A cell is like a tiny factory.

It must:

• take in materials,
• produce energy,
• make useful substances,
• remove waste,
• store instructions,
• and sometimes reproduce.

Some organisms, such as bacteria, consist of only one cell. These are unicellular organisms.

Other organisms, such as humans, trees, and dogs, contain many cells. These are multicellular organisms.

Two basic cell types

A. Prokaryotic cells

These are simpler cells.

• They do not have a true nucleus.
• Their genetic material lies in the cell interior.
• They usually have no membrane-bound organelles.
• Bacteria are examples.

B. Eukaryotic cells

These are more complex cells.

• They have a nucleus surrounded by a membrane.
• They contain specialized structures called organelles.
• Plants, animals, fungi, and protists have eukaryotic cells.

Main cell parts and their functions

Plant and animal cells

Plant cells usually have:

• a cell wall,
• chloroplasts,
• and a large permanent vacuole.

Animal cells usually have:

• no cell wall,
• no chloroplasts,
• and smaller temporary vacuoles.

The cell membrane is present in both.

3. Levels of organization

In a multicellular organism, cells divide up the work.

The order is:

Cell → Tissue → Organ → Organ system → Organism

Step 1: Cell

A cell is the smallest living unit.

Example: a muscle cell.

Step 2: Tissue

A tissue is a group of similar cells performing a common function.

Example: many muscle cells form muscle tissue.

Why does this happen?

One cell cannot perform every task efficiently. Similar cells cooperate and specialize.

Step 3: Organ

An organ is made of different tissues working together.

Example: the heart contains muscle tissue, nervous tissue, connective tissue, and blood vessels.

Why does this happen?

Different jobs are required inside one structure. Muscle tissue contracts, nervous tissue coordinates, and connective tissue provides support.

Step 4: Organ system

An organ system is a group of organs working together.

Example: the circulatory system includes the heart, blood, and blood vessels.

Why does this happen?

A major body function is usually too complicated for one organ to perform alone.

Step 5: Organism

An organism is a complete living individual.

Example: a human, dog, oak tree, or mushroom.

4. How organisms obtain food

Organisms can be grouped by how they obtain nutrition.

Autotrophs

They make their own food.

• Green plants use sunlight in photosynthesis.
• Some bacteria use chemical reactions.

Heterotrophs

They obtain food from other organisms or organic material.

• Animals eat food.
• Fungi absorb dissolved nutrients.
• Many bacteria feed on dead matter or live as parasites.

The five-kingdom system uses features such as cell structure, nutrition, body organization, and reproduction to classify organisms. 1Five Kingdom ClassificationThe organisms were then classified based on the presence and absence of a cell wall. The ones without the cell wall were classified under kingdom Animalia and the ones with cell wall were classified under kingdom Plantae. Published: October 13, 2023 Views: 17Kbyjus

5. The five kingdoms

A. Kingdom Monera

Monera includes bacteria in the traditional school classification.

Main features

• Usually unicellular.
• Prokaryotic.
• Very small and microscopic.
• Usually have a cell wall.
• May make their own food or obtain food from elsewhere.
• Reproduce commonly by splitting into two cells.

Examples

• Escherichia coli
• Lactobacillus
• Cyanobacteria

Why are bacteria important?

They can:

• decompose dead material,
• help make yoghurt and cheese,
• fix nitrogen in soil,
• cause disease,
• and produce oxygen in the case of some photosynthetic bacteria.

B. Kingdom Protista

Protists are mostly unicellular eukaryotes, although some form colonies or simple multicellular bodies.

Main features

• Eukaryotic.
• Usually live in water or damp places.
• Some make food by photosynthesis.
• Some ingest food like animals.
• Some move using cilia, flagella, or temporary extensions of the cell.

Examples

• Amoeba
• Paramecium
• Euglena
• Chlamydomonas

Why are protists considered a separate group?

They are eukaryotic but do not fit neatly into plants, animals, or fungi. They often have relatively simple bodies.

C. Kingdom Fungi

Fungi include mushrooms, moulds, and yeasts.

Main features

• Eukaryotic.
• Most are multicellular; yeast is unicellular.
• Have cell walls made mainly of chitin.
• Cannot make food by photosynthesis.
• Digest food outside their bodies and absorb the dissolved nutrients.
• Commonly reproduce using spores.

Examples

• Mushroom
• Bread mould
• Yeast

Why are fungi important?

Fungi:

• decompose dead organisms,
• recycle nutrients,
• help plant roots absorb minerals,
• make bread and some medicines,
• and sometimes cause infections or spoil food.

A fungus is not a plant. Plants make food by photosynthesis, whereas fungi absorb food from their surroundings. 3[pic] [pic] The Five KingdomsMethod of obtaining energy Producers – organisms which create their own food, usually by using sunlight Consumers – organisms which obtain energy by feeding on other organisms Decomposers – organisms which obtain energy by breaking down wastes and dead organisms Kingdom Monera* - single-celled organisms - mostly producers and decomposers Kingdom Protista - single-celled organisms - mostly producers and consumers Kingdom Fungi - multi-celled organisms - decomposers Kingdom Plantae - multi-celled organisms - producers Kingdom Animalia - multi-celled organisms - consumers *Some biologists divide Monerans into two Domains, Archebacteria and Eubacteria, based upon chemical differences.bsu8Organisms and their ClassificationProtista: unicellular, or colonial, eukaryotic, mode of nutrition- photosynthetic or by ingestion, important forms- unicellular algae, dinoflagellates, diatoms, slime molds, protozoans · Fungi: multicellular, eukaryotic, by absorption of food, i.e. heterotrophic (saprophytic or parasitic), important forms: Phycomycetes, ascomycetes, basidiomycetes · Plantae: multicellular, eukaryotic, photosynthetic, includes all multicellular algae · Animalia: multicellular, eukaryotic, lack cell wall, holozoic nutrition, includes invertebrates and vertebrates (metazoan)microbenotes

6. Kingdom Plantae

Plants are generally:

• multicellular,
• eukaryotic,
• photosynthetic,
• and surrounded by cell walls.

The traditional plant divisions show increasing complexity in body structure and reproduction.

A. Thallophyta

These are simple plant-like organisms with a thallus.

A thallus does not have true roots, stems, and leaves.

Example

• Simple algae

Why are they simple?

Their body is not divided into specialized organs. They often live in water, where the whole body can absorb water and minerals.

B. Bryophyta

Bryophytes include mosses and liverworts.

Features

• Small plants.
• Usually live in damp places.
• Have no true vascular tissue.
• Do not have true roots, stems, or leaves.
• Reproduce using spores.
• Need water for sexual reproduction.

Example

• Moss

Why are they more advanced than thallophytes?

Their body shows some leaf-like and stem-like parts, but they still lack proper conducting tissues and true organs.

C. Pteridophyta

Pteridophytes include ferns.

Features

• Have true roots, stems, and leaves.
• Have vascular tissue to transport water and food.
• Do not produce seeds.
• Reproduce using spores.
• Usually require water for fertilization.

Example

• Fern

Why are they more advanced than bryophytes?

Their vascular tissue allows water and nutrients to move through a larger body. This allows them to grow taller and develop true organs.

D. Spermatophyta

Spermatophytes are seed-producing plants.

They have:

• roots,
• stems,
• leaves,
• vascular tissue,
• and seeds.

Seeds protect the young plant and often contain stored food. This helps the embryo survive until it can begin growing.

Spermatophyta includes gymnosperms and angiosperms.

1. Gymnosperms

The word means “naked seeds.”

• Seeds are not enclosed inside fruits.
• Often produce cones.
• Usually have needle-like leaves.
• Many are evergreen.

Example

• Pine

2. Angiosperms

These are flowering plants.

• Produce flowers.
• Seeds are enclosed inside fruits.
• Include grasses, roses, beans, mangoes, and wheat.

Why are angiosperms highly successful?

Flowers help with pollination, and fruits help protect and spread seeds. This allows plants to reproduce in many different environments.

7. Kingdom Animalia

Animals are generally:

• multicellular,
• eukaryotic,
• heterotrophic,
• without cell walls,
• and capable of movement at least during some stage of life.

Animalia can be divided into invertebrates and vertebrates.

• Invertebrates do not have a backbone.
• Vertebrates have a backbone and an internal skeleton.

A. Invertebrate groups

1. Coelenterata, or Cnidaria

Modern name: Cnidaria.

Features

• Mostly aquatic.
• Have tentacles.
• Have stinging cells.
• Have a simple body with one main opening.
• Usually show radial symmetry.

Examples

• Hydra
• Jellyfish
• Sea anemone
• Coral

Why do they have stinging cells?

The stinging cells help them capture prey and defend themselves.

2. Platyhelminthes

These are flatworms.

Features

• Body is flat and soft.
• Bilateral symmetry.
• Many are parasites.
• Have a simple body organization.

Examples

• Tapeworm
• Liver fluke
• Planarian

Why is a flat body useful?

A thin body allows materials to move between cells by diffusion more easily.

3. Nematoda

These are roundworms.

Features

• Long, cylindrical, unsegmented body.
• Bilateral symmetry.
• Some are free-living.
• Some are parasites.

Examples

• Ascaris
• Hookworm
• Pinworm

4. Annelida

These are segmented worms.

Features

• Body divided into repeated segments.
• More developed organs than flatworms and roundworms.
• Many have bristles or other structures for movement.

Examples

• Earthworm
• Leech
• Nereis

Why is segmentation useful?

Different body segments can specialize in movement, feeding, or reproduction, making the animal more efficient.

5. Arthropoda

This is the largest animal group.

Features

• Jointed legs or appendages.
• Hard external skeleton called an exoskeleton.
• Segmented body.
• Grow by shedding the old exoskeleton, a process called moulting.

Examples

• Insects
• Spiders
• Crabs
• Centipedes

Main arthropod groups

• Insects — three body regions and six legs.
• Arachnids — spiders and scorpions, usually eight legs.
• Crustaceans — crabs, prawns, and lobsters.
• Myriapods — centipedes and millipedes.

6. Mollusca

These are soft-bodied animals.

Features

• Soft, usually unsegmented body.
• Many have a shell.
• A muscular foot is often used for movement.
• Some have a mantle that produces the shell.

Examples

• Snail
• Clam
• Oyster
• Octopus
• Squid

B. Vertebrate groups

These are commonly taught as five major classes.

1. Pisces — fish

• Live mainly in water.
• Breathe using gills.
• Have fins.
• Usually have scales.
• Most are cold-blooded.
• Usually lay eggs in water.

Example: carp.

2. Amphibia — amphibians

• Live part of their lives in water and part on land.
• Young often breathe using gills.
• Adults usually use lungs and moist skin.
• Lay eggs in water.
• Are cold-blooded.

Examples: frog and salamander.

3. Reptilia — reptiles

• Mostly live on land.
• Have dry, scaly skin.
• Breathe using lungs.
• Usually lay eggs with protective coverings.
• Are cold-blooded.

Examples: lizard, snake, crocodile, and tortoise.

4. Aves — birds

• Have feathers.
• Have wings.
• Have beaks.
• Breathe using lungs.
• Lay hard-shelled eggs.
• Are warm-blooded.

Examples: pigeon and eagle.

5. Mammalia — mammals

• Have hair or fur.
• Females produce milk for their young.
• Breathe using lungs.
• Are warm-blooded.
• Most give birth to live young.

Examples: human, dog, whale, and bat.

8. Evolution: how variety developed

Evolution means that populations of organisms change over many generations.

A simple explanation is:

1. Organisms produce offspring.
2. Offspring are not exactly identical.
3. Some differences help organisms survive or reproduce.
4. Those organisms are more likely to pass their characteristics to offspring.
5. Over many generations, the population changes.

Example: better survival in a dry environment

Suppose a plant population has slight differences:

• some plants lose water quickly,
• some have thicker leaves,
• some have deeper roots.

In a dry environment, plants with thicker leaves or deeper roots may survive better. They produce more seeds. Over many generations, those useful features become more common.

Important warning

Evolution is not a ladder in which one modern organism turns directly into another modern organism.

For example:

• A fish did not simply “turn into” one particular frog.
• Humans did not evolve from modern monkeys.
• Humans and modern monkeys share ancient common ancestors.

Evolution is better represented as a branching tree. Some branches continue, while others become extinct.

9. A simplified evolutionary pattern

The following is a broad school-level comparison, not a complete evolutionary tree:

Simple cells → complex cells → multicellular organisms → specialized tissues and organs → more complex body systems

This pattern helps explain increasing organization:

• Monera: simple prokaryotic cells.
• Protista: mostly single eukaryotic cells.
• Fungi, plants, and animals: mainly multicellular eukaryotes.
• Plants: increasingly specialized structures such as vascular tissue, seeds, and flowers.
• Animals: increasingly specialized tissues, organs, skeletons, and body systems.

However, “simple” does not mean “inferior.” Bacteria are structurally simple but extremely successful and adapted to many environments.

10. Fully worked example: classifying a frog

Let us classify a frog step by step.

Observation 1: Is it living?

A frog:

• eats,
• respires,
• grows,
• responds to stimuli,
• reproduces,
• excretes waste,
• and is made of cells.

Therefore, it is a living organism.

Observation 2: What type of cell does it have?

A frog has:

• many cells,
• cells with nuclei,
• animal cells without cell walls.

Therefore, it is multicellular and eukaryotic.

Observation 3: Which kingdom?

It cannot make its own food and eats other organisms. It has no cell wall and can move.

Therefore, it belongs to Kingdom Animalia.

Observation 4: Vertebrate or invertebrate?

A frog has a backbone.

Therefore, it is a vertebrate.

Observation 5: Which vertebrate class?

A frog:

• begins life in water,
• has a tadpole stage,
• develops lungs,
• can live on land and in water,
• and has moist skin.

Therefore, it belongs to Class Amphibia.

Complete classification

Frog → living organism → multicellular eukaryote → Animalia → vertebrate → Amphibia

Levels of organization in a frog

Muscle cell → muscle tissue → heart → circulatory system → frog

Each level is made from the level before it and performs a larger, more coordinated function.

11. Common mistakes and misconceptions

1. “All plants are green.”
   Not necessarily. Some plants have unusual pigments or obtain nutrients in special ways.

2. “Fungi are plants.”
   Fungi are a separate kingdom. They do not photosynthesize and absorb nutrients instead.

3. “Only animals move.”
   Plants and fungi may show growth movements, and cells inside organisms move materials.

4. “A cell is just a tiny empty bag.”
   A cell contains many organized structures that perform specific functions.

5. “All cells have a nucleus.”
   Prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, do not have a true nucleus.

6. “A tissue is the same as an organ.”
   A tissue is a group of similar cells. An organ contains several tissues working together.

7. “Fish evolved directly into frogs.”
   Evolution branches. Fish and amphibians share ancient ancestors, but one modern fish does not turn into a frog.

8. “More complex means better.”
   Complexity is not the same as superiority. Bacteria are simple but highly successful.

9. “All invertebrates are small.”
   Some, such as giant squid, are very large.

10. “All reptiles lay eggs.”
    Many do, but some reptiles give birth to live young.

11. “Birds are not related to reptiles.”
    Birds evolved from reptile-like ancestors and are part of the broader reptile evolutionary lineage.

12. “The five kingdoms are a perfect modern evolutionary system.”
    They are useful for introductory study, but modern biology also uses domains and molecular evidence. Some groups traditionally placed in one kingdom are now understood to contain several evolutionary lineages.

Test question

A mushroom, a rose plant, and a bacterium are all found in a garden.

Classify each one by kingdom and explain two observations you would use to justify each classification.

Reply with your answer, and I’ll check it before explaining the solution.

🌿 JAMB Biology eBook

Variety of Organisms, Cells and Biological Organization

A colourful, beginner-friendly study guide for UTME candidates

JAMB Focus Area: Variety of Organisms
This topic covers living organisms, cell structure and functions, levels of organization, and the classification of organisms into groups such as Monera, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, and Animalia. 2JAMB Biology Syllabus 2025/2026 PDF | PDF | Circulatory System | ReproductionDetailed Syllabus A: Variety of Organisms (1) Living organisms: a. Characteristics b. Cell structure and functions of cell components c. Level of organization i. Cell e.g. euglena and paramecium, ii. Tissue e.g. epithelial tissues and hydra iii. Organ e.g. onion bulb iv.scribd4JAMB Syllabus for Biology [2026 Latest Version] - Allschool.ngJAMB Syllabus for Biology. This is the 2026 Official Biology Syllabus and it's also available in PDF Format. In your pursuit of excellence in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), commonly referred to as JAMB, a comprehensive ...allschool

📘 How to Use This Book

For each topic:

1. Read the simple explanation.
2. Study the comparison tables.
3. Memorize the key words.
4. Attempt the JAMB-style questions.
5. Review the common mistakes.

⭐ JAMB Tip: JAMB often tests differences between groups, examples of organisms, cell functions, and adaptations to habitats.

Chapter 1: What Is Biology?

Biology is the study of living things.

The word comes from:

• Bio = life
• Logy = study

Biology helps us understand:

• how the body works,
• how plants make food,
• how diseases spread,
• how organisms reproduce,
• why organisms differ,
• and how living things interact with their environment.

Chapter 2: Variety of Organisms

🌍 A simple analogy

Imagine a large city containing:

• houses,
• schools,
• factories,
• hospitals,
• vehicles,
• shops,
• parks,
• and people.

Although everything is in the same city, each thing has a different structure and function.

Earth is also like a large city. It contains bacteria, fungi, plants, animals, and many other organisms. Their differences are called the variety or diversity of organisms.

Meaning of organism

An organism is any individual living thing.

Examples include:

• bacterium,
• amoeba,
• mushroom,
• maize plant,
• fish,
• bird,
• human being.

Organisms may be:

• unicellular — made of one cell;
• multicellular — made of many cells.

Chapter 3: Characteristics of Living Organisms

A useful memory aid is MRS GREN.

1. Movement

Animals move from one place to another. Plants do not usually walk, but their parts can move or grow in response to stimuli.

Example: A shoot grows toward light.

2. Respiration

Respiration releases energy from food.

This energy is used for:

• movement,
• growth,
• repair,
• reproduction,
• and active transport.

⚠️ Do not confuse respiration with breathing.
Breathing is taking in and giving out air. Respiration is the chemical process that releases energy from food.

3. Sensitivity

Sensitivity is the ability to detect and respond to changes.

Examples:

• withdrawing your hand from a hot object;
• a plant shoot growing toward light;
• an amoeba moving away from harmful chemicals.

4. Growth

Growth is a permanent increase in size or dry mass.

Animals grow mainly by increasing cell size and number. Plants continue growing in specific regions throughout life.

5. Reproduction

Reproduction produces new organisms.

It may be:

• sexual reproduction, involving two sex cells;
• asexual reproduction, involving one parent.

6. Excretion

Excretion is the removal of waste produced by chemical reactions in the body.

Examples:

• carbon dioxide,
• excess water,
• urea,
• mineral salts.

⚠️ Removing undigested food is called egestion, not excretion.

7. Nutrition

Nutrition is obtaining or making food.

• Plants are usually autotrophic because they make food.
• Animals are heterotrophic because they obtain food from other organisms.
• Fungi absorb nutrients from their surroundings.

Chapter 4: The Cell

🏭 Cell analogy

A cell is like a small factory:

• the cell membrane is the security gate;
• the nucleus is the manager’s office;
• the mitochondria are power stations;
• the ribosomes are production workers;
• the vacuole is the storage room;
• the chloroplast is the solar-energy department.

A cell is the basic structural and functional unit of life.

This means:

• all living organisms are made of cells;
• cells form the structures of organisms;
• life processes occur inside cells.

Types of cells

A. Prokaryotic cells

These are simple cells.

Features:

• no true nucleus;
• genetic material is not enclosed in a nuclear membrane;
• usually small;
• no membrane-bound organelles;
• found in bacteria.

B. Eukaryotic cells

These are more complex cells.

Features:

• have a true nucleus;
• contain specialized organelles;
• found in plants, animals, fungi, and protists.

Chapter 5: Cell Structure and Functions

Plant cell versus animal cell

Why does a plant cell have a cell wall?

The cell wall provides support. It prevents the cell from bursting when water enters.

Why does a plant cell have chloroplasts?

Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy for photosynthesis.

Why do animal cells lack chloroplasts?

Animals do not make food by photosynthesis; they obtain food by feeding on other organisms.

Chapter 6: Levels of Organization

Multicellular organisms divide work among different groups of cells.

The order is:

Cell → Tissue → Organ → Organ system → Organism

1. Cell

A cell is the smallest unit of life.

Example: nerve cell.

2. Tissue

A tissue is a group of similar cells performing the same function.

Examples:

• muscle tissue,
• epithelial tissue,
• xylem tissue.

3. Organ

An organ is made of different tissues working together.

Examples:

• heart,
• leaf,
• stomach,
• root.

4. Organ system

An organ system is a group of organs performing a major body function.

Examples:

• digestive system,
• respiratory system,
• circulatory system.

5. Organism

An organism is a complete living individual.

Examples:

• human,
• dog,
• maize plant,
• mushroom.

Worked example: human organization

Muscle cell
↓
Muscle tissue
↓
Heart
↓
Circulatory system
↓
Human being

Why does organization occur?

A single cell cannot perform all tasks efficiently. Cells specialize and cooperate. This makes large organisms more effective and better coordinated.

Chapter 7: Classification of Organisms

Why classify organisms?

There are millions of organisms. Classification helps scientists:

• identify organisms;
• study similarities and differences;
• understand relationships;
• predict characteristics;
• organize biological information.

The traditional school classification includes:

1. Monera
2. Protista
3. Fungi
4. Plantae
5. Animalia

📌 Exam note: Modern biology uses newer systems, including the three-domain system, but JAMB materials commonly teach this traditional classification for introductory purposes. 2JAMB Biology Syllabus 2025/2026 PDF | PDF | Circulatory System | ReproductionDetailed Syllabus A: Variety of Organisms (1) Living organisms: a. Characteristics b. Cell structure and functions of cell components c. Level of organization i. Cell e.g. euglena and paramecium, ii. Tissue e.g. epithelial tissues and hydra iii. Organ e.g. onion bulb iv.scribd5JAMB Biology Syllabus 2026 & Recommended Textbooks - MasterJAMBMonera, Protista, and Fungi · Plantae (Thallophyta, Bryophyta, Pteridophyta, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms) Animalia (Invertebrates and Vertebrates) Structural, functional, and behavioural adaptations of organisms to their habitats · JAMB frequently ...masterjamb

Chapter 8: Kingdom Monera

Main characteristics

• Usually unicellular.
• Prokaryotic.
• Microscopic.
• No true nucleus.
• Usually have a cell wall.
• Reproduce mainly by binary fission.
• May be autotrophic or heterotrophic.

Examples

• bacteria,
• blue-green bacteria/cyanobacteria,
• Lactobacillus,
• Rhizobium.

Importance

Useful bacteria:

• decompose dead materials;
• improve soil fertility;
• help produce yoghurt;
• fix nitrogen.

Harmful bacteria:

• cause diseases;
• spoil food;
• contaminate water.

Key JAMB clue

If an organism is microscopic, unicellular, and lacks a true nucleus, it is probably a member of Monera.

Chapter 9: Kingdom Protista

Main characteristics

• Eukaryotic.
• Mostly unicellular.
• Usually found in water or damp places.
• Some are plant-like.
• Some are animal-like.
• Some move using cilia, flagella, or pseudopodia.

Examples

JAMB trap: Euglena

Euglena has characteristics of both plants and animals:

• like a plant, it has chloroplasts;
• like an animal, it can move and feed on organic substances.

Chapter 10: Kingdom Fungi

Main characteristics

• Eukaryotic.
• Most are multicellular; yeast is unicellular.
• Have cell walls made of chitin.
• Lack chlorophyll.
• Cannot photosynthesize.
• Obtain food by absorption.
• Often reproduce by spores.

Examples

• mushroom,
• yeast,
• Rhizopus,
• bread mould.

How fungi feed

A fungus releases digestive enzymes onto food. The enzymes break the food into soluble substances. The fungus then absorbs them.

Why are fungi important?

They:

• decompose dead organisms;
• recycle nutrients;
• help in bread production;
• produce antibiotics;
• form useful associations with plant roots.

Key difference

Chapter 11: Kingdom Plantae

Plants are generally:

• multicellular;
• eukaryotic;
• autotrophic;
• photosynthetic;
• supported by cellulose cell walls.

A. Thallophyta

Features

• Simple plant body called a thallus.
• No true roots, stems, or leaves.
• Usually found in water or damp habitats.
• May reproduce by spores or fragmentation.

Example: Spirogyra.

Key word

Thallus = body not divided into true roots, stems, and leaves.

B. Bryophyta

Examples include:

• mosses,
• liverworts.

Features

• Small and simple plants.
• No true vascular tissue.
• No true roots, stems, or leaves.
• Reproduce by spores.
• Need water for fertilization.
• Usually grow in damp places.

Example

Moss

C. Pteridophyta

Examples include:

• ferns,
• horsetails.

Features

• Have true roots, stems, and leaves.
• Possess vascular tissues.
• Do not produce seeds.
• Reproduce by spores.
• Often require water for fertilization.

Example

Fern

D. Spermatophyta

These are seed-producing plants.

They include:

1. Gymnosperms
2. Angiosperms

Gymnosperms

“Gymnosperm” means naked seed.

Features:

• seeds are not enclosed in fruits;
• commonly produce cones;
• often have needle-like leaves;
• usually do not produce typical flowers.

Example: pine.

Angiosperms

These are flowering plants.

Features:

• produce flowers;
• seeds are enclosed in fruits;
• possess well-developed roots, stems, and leaves;
• include monocotyledons and dicotyledons.

Examples: maize, bean, mango, rose.

Plant progression table

⭐ Memory pattern:
Thallo → Bryo → Pterido → Gymno → Angio
Think: simple body → moss → fern → naked seed → covered seed.

Chapter 12: Kingdom Animalia

Animals are generally:

• multicellular;
• eukaryotic;
• heterotrophic;
• without cell walls;
• capable of movement;
• sensitive to their surroundings.

They are divided into:

• invertebrates — without backbone;
• vertebrates — with backbone.

Chapter 13: Invertebrates

1. Coelenterata/Cnidaria

Examples:

• Hydra,
• jellyfish,
• sea anemone,
• coral.

Features:

• mostly aquatic;
• tentacles;
• stinging cells;
• one body opening;
• radial symmetry.

2. Platyhelminthes

These are flatworms.

Examples:

• tapeworm,
• liver fluke,
• planarian.

Features:

• flattened body;
• bilateral symmetry;
• many are parasites;
• simple organs.

3. Nematoda

These are roundworms.

Examples:

• Ascaris,
• hookworm,
• pinworm.

Features:

• cylindrical body;
• unsegmented;
• bilateral symmetry;
• some are parasites.

4. Annelida

These are segmented worms.

Examples:

• earthworm,
• leech,
• ragworm.

Features:

• body divided into segments;
• well-developed organs;
• improved movement compared with simpler worms.

5. Arthropoda

This is the largest animal phylum.

Examples:

• insects,
• spiders,
• crabs,
• prawns,
• centipedes.

Features:

• jointed appendages;
• segmented body;
• hard exoskeleton;
• growth by moulting.

6. Mollusca

Examples:

• snail,
• slug,
• clam,
• oyster,
• octopus,
• squid.

Features:

• soft body;
• many have shells;
• muscular foot;
• mantle often present.

Chapter 14: Vertebrates

Pisces — fish

Amphibia — amphibians

Reptilia — reptiles

Aves — birds

Mammalia — mammals

Chapter 15: Evolution and Increasing Organization

What is evolution?

Evolution is the gradual change in inherited characteristics of populations over many generations.

It occurs because:

1. organisms produce offspring;
2. offspring show variation;
3. some variations are useful;
4. organisms with useful variations survive and reproduce more successfully;
5. useful characteristics become more common over time.

Important correction

Evolution is not a straight ladder.

It is more like a tree with branches:

1                 ┌── Modern group A
2Ancient ancestor ┤
3                 ├── Modern group B
4                 │
5                 └── Modern group C

This means organisms may share common ancestors without one modern species changing directly into another modern species.

Evolutionary trends in plants

At school level, plant groups are often arranged from simpler to more complex:

Thallophyta → Bryophyta → Pteridophyta → Gymnosperms → Angiosperms

General trends include:

• body becomes more specialized;
• true roots, stems, and leaves develop;
• vascular tissue appears;
• seeds develop;
• flowers and fruits develop.

Evolutionary trends in animals

General trends include:

• increasing tissue specialization;
• development of organs;
• development of organ systems;
• improved support and movement;
• development of a backbone in vertebrates;
• adaptation to land, air, and different habitats.

⚠️ These sequences are useful for comparing complexity, but they should not be interpreted as a complete direct family tree.

Chapter 16: Fully Worked Classification Example

Question

An organism is green, multicellular, has true roots, stems, and leaves, possesses vascular tissue, and reproduces by spores. Which group does it belong to?

Step 1: Is it a plant?

It is green and multicellular, so it is likely able to photosynthesize.

Step 2: Does it have true roots, stems, and leaves?

Yes. This rules out:

• Thallophyta;
• Bryophyta.

Step 3: Does it produce seeds?

No. It reproduces by spores.

This rules out:

• Gymnosperms;
• Angiosperms.

Step 4: Does it have vascular tissue?

Yes.

Therefore, the organism is a Pteridophyte, such as a fern.

Final answer

The organism belongs to Pteridophyta because it has true roots, stems, leaves and vascular tissue but reproduces by spores rather than seeds.

Chapter 17: JAMB Examination Tips

Memorize these contrasts

• Monera: prokaryotic.
• Protista: mostly unicellular eukaryotic organisms.
• Fungi: absorb food and lack chlorophyll.
• Bryophyta: non-vascular plants.
• Pteridophyta: vascular plants without seeds.
• Gymnosperms: naked seeds.
• Angiosperms: seeds enclosed in fruits.
• Arthropoda: jointed appendages.
• Mollusca: soft-bodied animals.
• Amphibia: live in water and on land.
• Aves: feathers.
• Mammalia: mammary glands and hair.

Common JAMB traps

1. Gills belong mainly to fish, but young amphibians may also have gills.
2. Wings do not automatically mean bird; insects also have wings.
3. A shell does not automatically mean mollusc; some other animals have protective coverings.
4. A green organism is not automatically a plant; Euglena is a protist.
5. All fungi are not mushrooms; yeast and moulds are also fungi.
6. Spore production does not mean an organism is a fungus; ferns and mosses also produce spores.

Chapter 18: JAMB-Style Practice Questions

1. Which structure controls the activities of a cell?

A. Ribosome
B. Nucleus
C. Vacuole
D. Cell wall

2. Which organism is prokaryotic?

A. Amoeba
B. Mushroom
C. Bacterium
D. Fern

3. Which plant group has vascular tissue but does not produce seeds?

A. Bryophyta
B. Pteridophyta
C. Gymnosperms
D. Angiosperms

4. The characteristic feature of arthropods is the presence of

A. soft bodies
B. jointed appendages
C. stinging cells
D. moist skin

5. Which of the following is a mammalian feature?

A. Feathers
B. Gills
C. Mammary glands
D. Jointed legs

6. Fungi obtain food mainly by

A. photosynthesis
B. ingestion
C. absorption
D. filtration

7. The correct order of organization is

A. tissue → cell → organ → organism
B. cell → organ → tissue → system
C. cell → tissue → organ → system → organism
D. organ → tissue → cell → organism

8. Which organism is an example of a protist?

A. Paramecium
B. Pine
C. Earthworm
D. Mushroom

9. Gymnosperms are plants whose seeds are

A. enclosed in fruits
B. produced inside flowers
C. naked
D. produced in cones only by fungi

10. A frog belongs to the class

A. Pisces
B. Amphibia
C. Reptilia
D. Mammalia

Answers

1. B — The nucleus controls cell activities.
2. C — Bacteria are prokaryotic.
3. B — Pteridophytes have vascular tissue but reproduce by spores.
4. B — Arthropods have jointed appendages.
5. C — Mammary glands produce milk.
6. C — Fungi digest externally and absorb nutrients.
7. C — This is the correct order.
8. A — Paramecium is a protist.
9. C — Gymnosperm seeds are naked.
10. B — Frogs are amphibians.

Final Revision Summary

1LIVING THINGS
2    ↓
3Made of cells
4    ↓
5Cells perform life processes
6    ↓
7Cells form tissues
8    ↓
9Tissues form organs
10    ↓
11Organs form systems
12    ↓
13Systems form organisms

1FIVE KINGDOMS
2 
3Monera     → prokaryotic organisms
4Protista   → mostly unicellular eukaryotes
5Fungi      → absorptive feeders without chlorophyll
6Plantae    → mostly photosynthetic multicellular organisms
7Animalia   → multicellular heterotrophic organisms without cell walls

1PLANT GROUPS
2 
3Thallophyta → Bryophyta → Pteridophyta → Gymnosperms → Angiosperms
4simple body    mosses       ferns          naked seeds    flowers/fruits

1VERTEBRATES
2 
3Pisces → Amphibia → Reptilia → Aves → Mammalia
4fish     frog        lizard      bird    human/dog

Sources

The JAMB Biology syllabus lists variety of organisms, cell structure and functions, levels of organization, and classification as core Biology areas. 2JAMB Biology Syllabus 2025/2026 PDF | PDF | Circulatory System | ReproductionDetailed Syllabus A: Variety of Organisms (1) Living organisms: a. Characteristics b. Cell structure and functions of cell components c. Level of organization i. Cell e.g. euglena and paramecium, ii. Tissue e.g. epithelial tissues and hydra iii. Organ e.g. onion bulb iv.scribd4JAMB Syllabus for Biology [2026 Latest Version] - Allschool.ngJAMB Syllabus for Biology. This is the 2026 Official Biology Syllabus and it's also available in PDF Format. In your pursuit of excellence in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), commonly referred to as JAMB, a comprehensive ...allschool It also identifies the traditional groups and examples such as Monera, Protista, Fungi, Thallophyta, Bryophyta, and Pteridophyta. 5JAMB Biology Syllabus 2026 & Recommended Textbooks - MasterJAMBMonera, Protista, and Fungi · Plantae (Thallophyta, Bryophyta, Pteridophyta, Gymnosperms, Angiosperms) Animalia (Invertebrates and Vertebrates) Structural, functional, and behavioural adaptations of organisms to their habitats · JAMB frequently ...masterjamb6JAMB Syllabus For Biology 2025/2026 Jamb.org.ng Pdf Downloada. Monera (prokaryotes), e.g. bacteria and blue green algae. b. Protista (protozoans and protophyta), e.g. Amoeba, Euglena and Paramecium c. Fungi, e.g. mushroom and Rhizopus. d. Plantae (plants) i. Thallophyta (e.g. Spirogyra) ii. Bryophyta (mosses and liveworts) e.g.o3schools

💙 Blue Background Design for the JAMB Biology eBook

Use a professional navy-blue theme with white text and bright accent colours for easy reading.

Recommended colour palette

Cover-page design

1╔════════════════════════════════════╗
2║                                    ║
3║        JAMB BIOLOGY                ║
4║                                    ║
5║   VARIETY OF ORGANISMS             ║
6║   CELLS • CLASSIFICATION •         ║
7║   LEVELS OF ORGANIZATION           ║
8║                                    ║
9║       A Beginner-Friendly          ║
10║       Biology Study Guide          ║
11║                                    ║
12║      UTME/JAMB EXAM PREPARATION    ║
13║                                    ║
14╚════════════════════════════════════╝

Cover styling

• Background: #062B5C
• Title: white, bold, uppercase
• Subtitle: golden yellow
• Add small illustrations of:
  • a cell,
  • leaf,
  • mushroom,
  • bacterium,
  • fish,
  • bird,
  • and human.
• Use light-blue curved shapes or transparent bubbles in the background.

Suggested page layout

Chapter title page

Use a full royal-blue background:

1CHAPTER 1
2 
3VARIETY OF ORGANISMS

Under the title, add:

Key idea: Earth contains millions of organisms with different structures, functions, and ways of life.

Use white text with a yellow underline.

Normal content pages

For readability, use one of these two styles:

Style A: Full blue background

• Background: dark navy blue
• Text: white
• Headings: golden yellow
• Definitions: light-blue boxes
• Important notes: turquoise boxes

Style B: Blue border design

• Page background: very pale blue
• Top and bottom borders: navy blue
• Headings: royal blue
• Text: dark navy
• Tables: alternating white and light-blue rows

Best professional choice: Use Style B for detailed reading pages. Full dark-blue pages are attractive, but pale pages are easier on the eyes during long study sessions.

Sample redesigned page

💙 CHAPTER 2: CHARACTERISTICS OF LIVING ORGANISMS

Simple explanation

A living organism is like a working machine. It takes in materials, releases energy, grows, responds to its surroundings, and produces offspring.

⭐ Memory aid: MRS GREN

💡 JAMB Tip

Do not confuse breathing with respiration. Breathing is the exchange of gases, while respiration is the chemical process that releases energy from food.

⚠️ Common mistake

Removing undigested food from the body is called egestion, not excretion.

Chapter colour coding

Use a different accent colour for each major section while keeping the blue background consistent.

• 🦠 Monera: turquoise
• 🔬 Protista: purple
• 🍄 Fungi: orange
• 🌿 Plantae: green
• 🐾 Animalia: gold
• 🧬 Cells: sky blue
• 🧠 JAMB Tips: yellow
• ⚠️ Common Mistakes: coral

Recommended typography

Titles

• Font: Montserrat ExtraBold, Poppins Bold, or Arial Bold
• Colour: White or golden yellow
• Size: 28–36 pt

Subheadings

• Font: Poppins SemiBold or Montserrat Bold
• Colour: Golden yellow
• Size: 18–24 pt

Body text

• Font: Open Sans, Lato, Aptos, or Arial
• Colour: White on dark blue; dark navy on pale blue
• Size: 11–13 pt
• Line spacing: 1.3–1.5

Canva provides customizable biology templates that can be adapted to this blue theme. 1Free and customizable biology templates | CanvaExplore life's bodily wonders and present them using free biology templates you can customize and share.canva

Page footer

Add this footer to every page:

1JAMB BIOLOGY • VARIETY OF ORGANISMS                         Page 5

Use:

• white or light-blue text;
• a thin golden-yellow line above the footer;
• page numbers in a small rounded blue or yellow circle.

Design prompt for Canva or an AI design tool

Create a professional beginner-friendly JAMB Biology eBook titled “JAMB Biology: Variety of Organisms, Cells and Biological Organization.” Use a deep navy-blue background #062B5C, royal-blue chapter sections #0B4F9C, white body text, golden-yellow headings, light-blue information boxes, green answer boxes, and coral warning boxes. Use clean scientific illustrations of cells, bacteria, fungi, plants, fish, birds, and mammals. Make the design colourful, educational, uncluttered, readable, and suitable for Nigerian UTME/JAMB candidates. Use bold modern headings, clear tables, page numbers, chapter tabs, and professional academic formatting.

Final theme

Deep blue background + white text + yellow headings + light-blue boxes + colourful biology illustrations

This gives the ebook a professional, attractive appearance while keeping the content easy to read.

Use Deep Navy Blue — #062B5C for the main page backgrounds.

Recommended supporting shades:

• Chapter pages: Royal blue — #0B4F9C
• Content boxes: Very light blue — #DCEEFF
• Headings: Golden yellow — #FFD34E
• Body text: White — #FFFFFF

For long reading pages, use a very pale blue background (#F4F9FF) with navy text instead of full dark blue. It will be more comfortable to read and print.

For a navy-blue background (#062B5C), use high-contrast light colours:

• Body text: Soft white — #F7FAFC
  More comfortable than pure white for long passages.
• Main headings: Golden yellow — #FFD34E
  Excellent for titles and key points.
• Subheadings: Pale blue — #DCEEFF
• Captions and secondary text: Light gray — #CBD5E1
• Important tips: Bright cyan — #5BC0EB
• Warnings: Light coral — #FF9B93

White and light gray are generally the most readable choices on navy backgrounds 5What Font Color Goes Well With Blue Background? Perfect Contrast Hacks ...The best font color for a navy blue background is often white or light gray, as these neutral colors provide excellent contrast and readability. Can I use a bright font color with a sky blue background?wordscr6What Color Font To Use On Blue Background? Perfect PairingsWhat font color is best for a dark blue background? For a dark blue background, light colors like white, cream, or light gray provide excellent contrast and readability.wordscr. Keep normal body text at a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for WCAG AA accessibility 2Best Text Color for Readability & Eye Comfort (2026 Guide)Black (#000000) on a white background is the best font color combination for text readability and lowest eye strain. [1] [6] Dark shades like charcoal gray, midnight blue, or deep greens also perform very well on white or off-white backgrounds.unanswered3How to Choose Font Colors That Actually Work | FontArrayLearn how to pick font colors for readability, branding, social posts, websites, posters, and thumbnails.fontarray.

Best combination

1Background:  #062B5C
2Body text:    #F7FAFC
3Headings:     #FFD34E
4Subheadings:  #DCEEFF
5Accent text:  #5BC0EB

Avoid black, dark blue, dark gray, or muted purple text on navy because the contrast will be too low.

Navy-Blue Background Font Colour Guide

Recommended Colour Palette

Best Combination

1Background:  #062B5C
2Body text:   #F7FAFC
3Headings:    #FFD34E
4Subheadings: #DCEEFF
5Accents:     #5BC0EB

Design Guidance

• Use soft white for most body text.
• Use golden yellow sparingly for headings and important information.
• Use pale blue for subheadings and supporting content.
• Avoid black, dark grey, and dark blue text on the navy background because they provide poor contrast.
• Navy works well with crisp neutrals and bright yellow accents for a clear, professional design 1Navy Blue Color Palette Ideas (20 Picks + Hex)Navy blue provides a softer, highly readable alternative to pure black in UI and print design, pairing effectively with crisp neutrals for structure, metallics for sophistication, or bold colors like citrus yellow for interactive highlights. ● Establish a clear visual hierarchy by strictly ...media3Find out what colour goes with navy designs | Adobe ExpressStart with your base. Use navy as your primary background or header colour. It keeps your design grounded and professional. Start out with a blue post template or a basic flyer or poster template and add in your shade of navy.adobe.
• Check the final PDF for sufficient text contrast, especially for smaller text.

PDF Layout Recommendation

• Page background: #062B5C
• Title: Golden yellow, bold, 24–30 pt
• Headings: Golden yellow, bold, 16–20 pt
• Body text: Soft white, 11–12 pt
• Margins: 20–25 mm
• Font: Arial, Aptos, Calibri, or Montserrat

You can copy this formatted guide into Word or Google Docs and choose File → Download/Export → PDF.

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Please provide one of the following:

• The full ebook manuscript pasted here
• A Word document or text file
• The ebook chapters, sent one at a time

I can organise it with:

• Cover page
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• Table of contents
• Introduction
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• Consistent navy-blue design
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• Conclusion and author bio
• Final proofreading and formatting

Recommended PDF design

• Background: Navy blue #062B5C
• Main text: Soft white #F7FAFC
• Chapter headings: Golden yellow #FFD34E
• Subheadings: Pale blue #DCEEFF
• Accent elements: Bright cyan #5BC0EB
• Body font: Georgia, Arial, or Aptos
• Heading font: Montserrat or Arial Bold

A PDF preserves the exact page design, while EPUB is usually better for ebooks because its text can reflow and readers can adjust the font size and colour 1Ebook Formatting: How to Create Standard and Full-Color EbooksScrivener is a great writing tool for iOS and Windows that you can use to export (compile) your book to EPUB format automatically. Scrivener costs around $60. If you use Scrivener for Mac, but you want to get a little fancier with your ebook, you can import it to Vellum. Vellum is a favorite formatting tool for authors who use the Mac because it’s so easy to use and creates beautiful print PDFs and ebooks.ingramspark. For a fixed, highly designed ebook, PDF is appropriate; for Kindle and other e-readers, you may eventually want a separate EPUB version 1Ebook Formatting: How to Create Standard and Full-Color EbooksScrivener is a great writing tool for iOS and Windows that you can use to export (compile) your book to EPUB format automatically. Scrivener costs around $60. If you use Scrivener for Mac, but you want to get a little fancier with your ebook, you can import it to Vellum. Vellum is a favorite formatting tool for authors who use the Mac because it’s so easy to use and creates beautiful print PDFs and ebooks.ingramspark4How to Format a Book for Publishing: Author GuideTo format a book for publishing, choose your publishing format (print, ebook, or both), select the correct trim size and margins, apply a readable font and consistent heading styles, organize your front and back matter, format page numbers and headers, prepare high-resolution images, and export the correct file type, PDF for print, EPUB or MOBI for ebooks.hillshiremedia.

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Ebook title: Biology

I can prepare the full Biology ebook as a professionally formatted PDF with:

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Please send the Biology ebook content or manuscript—you can paste it here chapter by chapter or upload the document. Also provide:

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I can then organize and format the complete document for PDF export. A biology ebook may cover areas such as cells, genetics, evolution, ecology, microbiology, and anatomy; free biology textbook collections commonly include these topics 250+ Free Biology Textbooks [PDF] | Read & DownloadWe've gathered over 50 free biology textbooks in PDF, covering cell biology, genetics, ecology, microbiology, molecular biology, evolutionary biology, marine biology, and botany.infobooks3Free Biology eBooks Online | Download free books legallyCK-12 Biology by B. Akre, J. Brainard, N. Gray-Wilson, D. Wilkin, 2009, 984 pages, 71MB, PDF ... Collecting and Preserving Insects and Arachnids edited by I.M. Millar, V.M Uys, R.P. Urban, 1999, 112 pp, 3.9MB, PDF · Color Key to North American Birds by Frank M. Chapman, 1912 · The Common Spiders of the United States by James Henry Emerton, 1902, 260 pp, multiple formatstopfreebooks.

Confirmed Ebook Details

• Title: Biology
• Author: Ikenna Emmanuel
• Level: Standard 4
• Format: PDF
• Page size: A4
• Design: Navy-blue background with white text and gold headings
• Chapters: Yes, with a complete table of contents

I will structure the ebook for Standard 4 learners using simple explanations, examples, activities, illustrations, review questions, and answers. Suggested topics include living and non-living things, plants, animals, the human body, health, habitats, and the environment. Biology textbooks commonly cover areas such as cells, genetics, ecology, anatomy, and microbiology, but this book will be adapted to the Standard 4 level 1Free Biology Books Download | Ebooks Online TextbooksLooking for free Biology Books? Download free Biology textbooks, ebooks, and lecture notes in PDF format. Learn basics, advanced concepts, and get an introduction to the subject.freebookcentre450+ Free Biology Textbooks [PDF] | Read & DownloadDownload over 50 free biology textbooks in PDF. From cell biology and genetics to ecology, evolution, and microbiology. Browse 24 more topics.infobooks.

Please send the manuscript if you already have one. If you want me to write the complete ebook from the beginning, reply:

“Write the full Biology ebook.”

BIOLOGY

For Standard 4

Written by Ikenna Emmanuel

Copyright

© 2026 Ikenna Emmanuel
All rights reserved.

This educational book is intended for Standard 4 learners. No part of it may be reproduced or sold without the author’s permission.

Table of Contents

1. Living and Non-living Things
2. Plants Around Us
3. Animals
4. The Human Body
5. Food and Nutrition
6. Personal Hygiene and Health
7. Our Environment
8. Air, Water and Soil
9. Safety and First Aid
10. Revision Questions and Answers

Chapter 1: Living and Non-living Things

What Is Biology?

Biology is the study of living things. The word biology comes from two words:

• Bio means life.
• Logy means study.

Biology helps us understand plants, animals, human beings and other living things.

Living Things

Living things are things that have life. Examples include:

• Human beings
• Dogs
• Birds
• Fish
• Trees
• Grass
• Insects

Living things carry out important activities called life processes.

Characteristics of Living Things

Living things:

1. Move – Animals move from one place to another. Plants also show movement when they grow toward light.
2. Breathe – Living things take in air.
3. Feed – Living things need food for energy and growth.
4. Grow – Young plants, animals and humans become bigger.
5. Reproduce – Living things produce young ones.
6. Respond to changes – Living things react to heat, light, sound and touch.
7. Remove waste – Living things get rid of waste materials.
8. Die – All living things eventually die.

Non-living Things

Non-living things do not have life. They do not breathe, grow, feed or reproduce.

Examples include:

• Stones
• Chairs
• Books
• Tables
• Water
• Air
• Cars

Some non-living things may move, but they cannot move by themselves. For example, a ball moves when someone kicks it.

Activity

Write L for living and N for non-living.

1. Goat ___
2. Pencil ___
3. Mango tree ___
4. Stone ___
5. Butterfly ___

Answers

1. L
2. N
3. L
4. N
5. L

Review Questions

1. What is biology?
2. Mention four living things.
3. Mention four non-living things.
4. State three characteristics of living things.

Chapter 2: Plants Around Us

Plants are living things that usually grow in the soil. They need air, water, sunlight and nutrients to grow.

Examples of plants include:

• Maize
• Beans
• Cassava
• Mango
• Grass
• Palm tree
• Rose

Parts of a Plant

A typical plant has the following parts:

1. Roots

Roots usually grow below the soil. They:

• Hold the plant firmly in the soil.
• Absorb water and minerals.
• Store food in some plants.

2. Stem

The stem supports the plant. It carries water from the roots to the leaves and food from the leaves to other parts.

3. Leaves

Leaves are usually green. They make food for the plant using sunlight, air and water. This process is called photosynthesis.

4. Flowers

Flowers help plants to reproduce. They may develop into fruits.

5. Fruits

Fruits protect the seeds of many plants. Examples include oranges, mangoes, tomatoes and pawpaw.

6. Seeds

A seed can grow into a new plant when it receives enough water, air and warmth.

Uses of Plants

Plants provide:

• Food
• Medicine
• Shade
• Firewood
• Timber
• Materials for clothing
• Oxygen
• Protection from soil erosion

How to Care for Plants

We should:

• Water plants regularly.
• Remove weeds.
• Protect plants from animals.
• Avoid cutting trees unnecessarily.
• Plant new trees.

Activity

Match each plant part with its function.

Answers

• Root – Absorbs water
• Leaf – Makes food
• Stem – Holds the plant upright

Review Questions

1. Name six parts of a plant.
2. What is the work of the roots?
3. Why are leaves important?
4. Mention three uses of plants.

Chapter 3: Animals

Animals are living things that can move from one place to another. They need food, water and air to live.

Groups of Animals

Animals can be grouped according to where they live.

Land Animals

These live mainly on land.

Examples:

• Goat
• Cow
• Lion
• Dog
• Elephant

Water Animals

These live mainly in water.

Examples:

• Fish
• Crab
• Whale
• Octopus

Air Animals

These spend much of their time flying.

Examples:

• Eagle
• Pigeon
• Butterfly
• Bat

Animals That Live Both on Land and in Water

Examples include:

• Frog
• Crocodile
• Hippopotamus
• Tortoise

Domestic and Wild Animals

Domestic Animals

Domestic animals are kept by people. Examples include:

• Cow
• Goat
• Sheep
• Dog
• Cat
• Chicken

They may provide meat, milk, eggs, security or companionship.

Wild Animals

Wild animals live in forests, grasslands or other natural places. Examples include:

• Lion
• Leopard
• Monkey
• Zebra
• Giraffe

Wild animals should not be disturbed or harmed unnecessarily.

Animal Food Groups

• Herbivores eat plants. Example: goat.
• Carnivores eat other animals. Example: lion.
• Omnivores eat both plants and animals. Example: human beings.

Activity

Complete the sentences.

1. A lion is a __________.
2. A goat is a __________.
3. A fish lives in __________.
4. A chicken is a __________ animal.

Answers

1. Carnivore
2. Herbivore
3. Water
4. Domestic

Review Questions

1. What are animals?
2. Mention three domestic animals.
3. Mention three wild animals.
4. What is a herbivore?
5. Give one example of an omnivore.

Chapter 4: The Human Body

The human body is made up of different parts. Each part has a special function.

External Body Parts

These are parts we can see outside the body.

Examples include:

• Head
• Eyes
• Nose
• Mouth
• Ears
• Neck
• Hands
• Legs
• Feet
• Skin

Sense Organs

Sense organs help us to learn about our surroundings.

Eyes

The eyes help us to see.

Ears

The ears help us to hear sounds.

Nose

The nose helps us to smell and breathe.

Tongue

The tongue helps us to taste food and speak.

Skin

The skin helps us to feel touch, heat, cold and pain.

Internal Organs

Internal organs are found inside the body.

• The heart pumps blood around the body.
• The lungs help us to breathe.
• The stomach helps to digest food.
• The brain controls the body.
• The bones support and protect the body.
• The muscles help the body to move.

Caring for the Body

We should:

• Eat healthy food.
• Exercise regularly.
• Sleep well.
• Keep the body clean.
• Visit a health worker when sick.
• Avoid dangerous substances.

Activity

Write the correct sense organ.

1. We use the __________ to see.
2. We use the __________ to hear.
3. We use the __________ to taste.
4. We use the __________ to smell.
5. We use the __________ to feel.

Answers

1. Eyes
2. Ears
3. Tongue
4. Nose
5. Skin

Review Questions

1. Name five external body parts.
2. What is the function of the heart?
3. What do the lungs do?
4. Mention two ways of caring for the body.

Chapter 5: Food and Nutrition

Food is anything we eat or drink that helps the body to live, grow and remain healthy.

Importance of Food

Food:

• Gives us energy.
• Helps us to grow.
• Repairs damaged body parts.
• Protects us from diseases.
• Keeps the body strong.

Classes of Food

1. Carbohydrates

They give the body energy.

Examples:

• Rice
• Yam
• Bread
• Maize
• Potatoes

2. Proteins

They help the body to grow and repair itself.

Examples:

• Eggs
• Fish
• Beans
• Meat
• Milk

3. Fats and Oils

They provide energy and help keep the body warm.

Examples:

• Groundnuts
• Palm oil
• Butter
• Avocado

4. Vitamins

They protect the body from diseases.

Sources include:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Carrots
• Oranges
• Tomatoes

5. Minerals

Minerals help the body develop strong bones, teeth and blood.

Examples include calcium and iron.

6. Water

Water helps digestion, removes waste and controls body temperature.

A Balanced Diet

A balanced diet contains different classes of food in the correct amounts.

A healthy meal may contain:

• Rice or yam
• Beans or fish
• Vegetables
• Fruit
• Clean water

Food Hygiene

We should:

• Wash our hands before eating.
• Wash fruits and vegetables.
• Cover food.
• Cook food properly.
• Keep food away from flies.
• Drink clean water.

Review Questions

1. Why do we need food?
2. Name two sources of protein.
3. What do carbohydrates provide?
4. What is a balanced diet?
5. Mention three food hygiene rules.

Chapter 6: Personal Hygiene and Health

Personal hygiene means keeping the body clean and healthy.

Good Hygiene Practices

Bathing

We should bathe regularly to remove sweat, dirt and germs.

Brushing the Teeth

We should brush our teeth at least twice daily. This helps prevent tooth decay and bad breath.

Washing Hands

Hands should be washed:

• Before eating.
• After using the toilet.
• After touching animals.
• After playing.
• Before preparing food.

Clean Clothing

We should wear clean clothes and change them regularly.

Clean Fingernails

Long and dirty fingernails can carry germs. Nails should be trimmed and cleaned.

Clean Surroundings

Rubbish should be placed in a bin. Stagnant water should be removed because it may allow mosquitoes to breed.

Diseases

A disease is a condition that makes the body unwell.

Examples include:

• Malaria
• Cholera
• Cough
• Measles
• Ringworm
• Diarrhoea

Preventing Diseases

We can prevent diseases by:

• Keeping clean.
• Eating safe food.
• Drinking clean water.
• Sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Taking recommended vaccinations.
• Keeping our environment clean.
• Reporting illness to an adult or health worker.

Review Questions

1. What is personal hygiene?
2. Mention three times when we should wash our hands.
3. Why should rubbish be placed in a bin?
4. Mention three ways of preventing diseases.

Chapter 7: Our Environment

The environment is everything around us. It includes living and non-living things.

Parts of the Environment

Living Parts

• People
• Animals
• Plants
• Microorganisms

Non-living Parts

• Air
• Water
• Soil
• Sunlight
• Rocks
• Temperature

Habitats

A habitat is the natural home of a plant or animal.

Examples:

• A pond is a habitat for fish and frogs.
• A forest is a habitat for monkeys and birds.
• A grassland is a habitat for cattle and antelopes.
• Soil is a habitat for earthworms.

Pollution

Pollution occurs when harmful substances make the environment dirty or unsafe.

Types of Pollution

• Air pollution – caused by smoke and harmful gases.
• Water pollution – caused by dumping waste into water.
• Land pollution – caused by littering and careless dumping.
• Noise pollution – caused by very loud sounds.

Protecting the Environment

We should:

• Plant trees.
• Avoid littering.
• Reuse and recycle materials.
• Dispose of waste properly.
• Keep water sources clean.
• Avoid unnecessary burning.
• Protect animals and plants.

Activity

State whether each action is good or harmful.

1. Planting trees
2. Throwing plastic into a river
3. Putting rubbish in a bin
4. Burning waste near a house

Answers

1. Good
2. Harmful
3. Good
4. Harmful

Review Questions

1. What is the environment?
2. Define habitat.
3. Mention two types of pollution.
4. State four ways to protect the environment.

Chapter 8: Air, Water and Soil

Air

Air is the mixture of gases around us. We cannot usually see air, but we can feel it when it moves.

Air is important because:

• People and animals need it to breathe.
• Plants use some gases in air to make food.
• Fire needs air to burn.
• Moving air can help boats and windmills.

Water

Water is necessary for all living things.

Uses of water include:

• Drinking
• Cooking
• Bathing
• Washing
• Farming
• Cleaning
• Giving water to animals

Sources of Water

• Rain
• Rivers
• Lakes
• Wells
• Springs
• Boreholes

Water for drinking should be clean. It may be made safer by boiling, filtering or treating it properly.

Soil

Soil is the loose material covering much of the land. Plants grow in soil.

Soil contains:

• Small rocks
• Water
• Air
• Decayed plants and animals
• Minerals

Importance of Soil

Soil:

• Supports plant growth.
• Provides a home for some animals.
• Helps farmers grow crops.
• Stores water.

Soil Erosion

Soil erosion is the removal of topsoil by wind or water.

It can be reduced by:

• Planting grass and trees.
• Avoiding overgrazing.
• Building terraces.
• Covering bare soil.
• Planting crops across slopes.

Review Questions

1. Why is air important?
2. Mention four uses of water.
3. Name three sources of water.
4. What is soil erosion?
5. State two ways of preventing soil erosion.

Chapter 9: Safety and First Aid

Safety means protecting ourselves and others from harm.

Safety at Home

• Do not play with fire.
• Do not touch electrical wires.
• Keep medicines away from children.
• Do not handle sharp objects carelessly.
• Do not play with matches.
• Tell an adult when you see danger.

Safety at School

• Walk, do not run, on slippery floors.
• Do not push others.
• Use tools correctly.
• Keep classrooms tidy.
• Follow the teacher’s instructions.

Road Safety

• Walk on the side of the road facing traffic where appropriate.
• Use pedestrian crossings.
• Look left, right and left again before crossing.
• Obey traffic lights.
• Do not play on the road.
• Wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or motorcycle.

First Aid

First aid is the immediate help given to an injured or sick person before professional medical care arrives.

Minor Cuts

• Wash your hands.
• Rinse the cut with clean water.
• Apply gentle pressure if it is bleeding.
• Cover it with a clean dressing.
• Tell an adult.

Minor Burns

• Move away from the source of heat.
• Cool the burn with clean running water.
• Tell an adult.
• Do not apply mud, oil or toothpaste.

Nosebleed

• Sit upright.
• Lean slightly forward.
• Pinch the soft part of the nose gently.
• Tell an adult if the bleeding continues.

Review Questions

1. What is safety?
2. Mention three safety rules at home.
3. What is first aid?
4. What should be done for a minor burn?

Chapter 10: Revision Questions and Answers

Multiple Choice

Choose the correct answer.

1. The study of living things is called:
   A. Geography
   B. Biology
   C. History

2. Which of these is living?
   A. Stone
   B. Chair
   C. Tree

3. The part of a plant that absorbs water is the:
   A. Root
   B. Flower
   C. Fruit

4. A lion is a:
   A. Herbivore
   B. Carnivore
   C. Plant

5. The organ used for seeing is the:
   A. Ear
   B. Eye
   C. Nose

6. Beans are rich in:
   A. Protein
   B. Water only
   C. Air

7. A natural home of an organism is called a:
   A. Habitat
   B. Hospital
   C. Classroom

8. Throwing waste into a river causes:
   A. Water pollution
   B. Clean water
   C. Soil formation

9. We should brush our teeth to prevent:
   A. Tooth decay
   B. Growth
   C. Breathing

10. First aid is given to an injured person:
    A. Immediately
    B. After several months
    C. Never

Answers

1. B
2. C
3. A
4. B
5. B
6. A
7. A
8. A
9. A
10. A

Short-Answer Questions

1. Define biology.
2. List five characteristics of living things.
3. Name four parts of a plant.
4. State three uses of plants.
5. What is a balanced diet?
6. Mention five personal hygiene practices.
7. What is pollution?
8. Mention three sources of water.
9. State three road-safety rules.
10. Why should we protect our environment?

Suggested Answers

1. Biology is the study of living things.
2. Movement, breathing, feeding, growth and reproduction.
3. Roots, stem, leaves and flowers.
4. Plants provide food, medicine and shade.
5. A balanced diet contains different classes of food in the correct amounts.
6. Bathing, brushing the teeth, washing hands, wearing clean clothes and trimming fingernails.
7. Pollution is the contamination of the environment by harmful substances.
8. Rain, rivers and wells.
9. Use pedestrian crossings, obey traffic lights and do not play on the road.
10. We protect the environment to keep people, plants and animals healthy and safe.

Glossary

Animal: A living thing that can usually move from place to place.
Biology: The study of living things.
Disease: A condition that makes the body unwell.
Environment: Everything around us.
First aid: Immediate help given to an injured or sick person.
Food: Material taken into the body for energy, growth and health.
Habitat: The natural home of a plant or animal.
Living thing: Something that has life.
Non-living thing: Something that has no life.
Pollution: The making of the environment dirty or unsafe.
Root: The part of a plant that usually grows underground.
Soil: The loose material in which plants grow.
Vitamin: A substance needed in small amounts to keep the body healthy.

End of Book

Biology for Standard 4
Written by Ikenna Emmanuel

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1BIOLOGY
2 
3FOR STANDARD 4
4 
5Written by Ikenna Emmanuel
6 
7 
8COPYRIGHT
9 
10© 2026 Ikenna Emmanuel
11 
12All rights reserved.
13 
14This educational book is intended for Standard 4 learners.
15 
16 
17TABLE OF CONTENTS
18 
19Chapter 1: Living and Non-living Things
20Chapter 2: Plants Around Us
21Chapter 3: Animals
22Chapter 4: The Human Body
23Chapter 5: Food and Nutrition
24Chapter 6: Personal Hygiene and Health
25Chapter 7: Our Environment
26Chapter 8: Air, Water and Soil
27Chapter 9: Safety and First Aid
28Chapter 10: Revision Questions and Answers
29Glossary
30 
31 
32CHAPTER 1: LIVING AND NON-LIVING THINGS
33 
34WHAT IS BIOLOGY?
35 
36Biology is the study of living things.
37 
38The word biology comes from two words:
39 
40Bio means life.
41Logy means study.
42 
43Biology helps us understand plants, animals, human beings and other living things.
44 
45LIVING THINGS
46 
47Living things are things that have life.
48 
49Examples include:
50 
511. Human beings
522. Dogs
533. Birds
544. Fish
555. Trees
566. Grass
577. Insects
58 
59CHARACTERISTICS OF LIVING THINGS
60 
61Living things:
62 
631. Move. Animals move from one place to another. Plants also show movement when they grow toward light.
64 
652. Breathe. Living things take in air.
66 
673. Feed. Living things need food for energy and growth.
68 
694. Grow. Young plants, animals and humans become bigger.
70 
715. Reproduce. Living things produce young ones.
72 
736. Respond to changes. Living things react to heat, light, sound and touch.
74 
757. Remove waste. Living things get rid of waste materials.
76 
778. Die. All living things eventually die.
78 
79NON-LIVING THINGS
80 
81Non-living things do not have life. They do not breathe, grow, feed or reproduce.
82 
83Examples include:
84 
851. Stones
862. Chairs
873. Books
884. Tables
895. Water
906. Air
917. Cars
92 
93Some non-living things may move, but they cannot move by themselves. For example, a ball moves when someone kicks it.
94 
95ACTIVITY
96 
97Write L for living and N for non-living.
98 
991. Goat ______
1002. Pencil ______
1013. Mango tree ______
1024. Stone ______
1035. Butterfly ______
104 
105ANSWERS
106 
1071. L
1082. N
1093. L
1104. N
1115. L
112 
113REVIEW QUESTIONS
114 
1151. What is biology?
1162. Mention four living things.
1173. Mention four non-living things.
1184. State three characteristics of living things.
119 
120 
121CHAPTER 2: PLANTS AROUND US
122 
123Plants are living things that usually grow in the soil. They need air, water, sunlight and nutrients to grow.
124 
125Examples of plants include:
126 
1271. Maize
1282. Beans
1293. Cassava
1304. Mango
1315. Grass
1326. Palm tree
1337. Rose
134 
135PARTS OF A PLANT
136 
137A typical plant has the following parts:
138 
1391. ROOTS
140 
141Roots usually grow below the soil.
142 
143Roots:
144 
145- Hold the plant firmly in the soil.
146- Absorb water and minerals.
147- Store food in some plants.
148 
1492. STEM
150 
151The stem supports the plant. It carries water from the roots to the leaves and food from the leaves to other parts.
152 
1533. LEAVES
154 
155Leaves are usually green. They make food for the plant using sunlight, air and water. This process is called photosynthesis.
156 
1574. FLOWERS
158 
159Flowers help plants to reproduce. They may develop into fruits.
160 
1615. FRUITS
162 
163Fruits protect the seeds of many plants.
164 
165Examples include:
166 
167- Oranges
168- Mangoes
169- Tomatoes
170- Pawpaw
171 
1726. SEEDS
173 
174A seed can grow into a new plant when it receives enough water, air and warmth.
175 
176USES OF PLANTS
177 
178Plants provide:
179 
180- Food
181- Medicine
182- Shade
183- Firewood
184- Timber
185- Materials for clothing
186- Oxygen
187- Protection from soil erosion
188 
189HOW TO CARE FOR PLANTS
190 
191We should:
192 
193- Water plants regularly.
194- Remove weeds.
195- Protect plants from animals.
196- Avoid cutting trees unnecessarily.
197- Plant new trees.
198 
199ACTIVITY
200 
201Match each plant part with its function.
202 
2031. Root
2042. Leaf
2053. Stem
206 
207Functions:
208 
209A. Makes food
210B. Absorbs water
211C. Holds the plant upright
212 
213ANSWERS
214 
2151. Root - Absorbs water
2162. Leaf - Makes food
2173. Stem - Holds the plant upright
218 
219REVIEW QUESTIONS
220 
2211. Name six parts of a plant.
2222. What is the work of the roots?
2233. Why are leaves important?
2244. Mention three uses of plants.
225 
226 
227CHAPTER 3: ANIMALS
228 
229Animals are living things that can move from one place to another. They need food, water and air to live.
230 
231GROUPS OF ANIMALS
232 
233Animals can be grouped according to where they live.
234 
235LAND ANIMALS
236 
237These animals live mainly on land.
238 
239Examples include:
240 
241- Goat
242- Cow
243- Lion
244- Dog
245- Elephant
246 
247WATER ANIMALS
248 
249These animals live mainly in water.
250 
251Examples include:
252 
253- Fish
254- Crab
255- Whale
256- Octopus
257 
258AIR ANIMALS
259 
260These animals spend much of their time flying.
261 
262Examples include:
263 
264- Eagle
265- Pigeon
266- Butterfly
267- Bat
268 
269ANIMALS THAT LIVE BOTH ON LAND AND IN WATER
270 
271Examples include:
272 
273- Frog
274- Crocodile
275- Hippopotamus
276- Tortoise
277 
278DOMESTIC AND WILD ANIMALS
279 
280DOMESTIC ANIMALS
281 
282Domestic animals are kept by people.
283 
284Examples include:
285 
286- Cow
287- Goat
288- Sheep
289- Dog
290- Cat
291- Chicken
292 
293They may provide meat, milk, eggs, security or companionship.
294 
295WILD ANIMALS
296 
297Wild animals live in forests, grasslands or other natural places.
298 
299Examples include:
300 
301- Lion
302- Leopard
303- Monkey
304- Zebra
305- Giraffe
306 
307Wild animals should not be disturbed or harmed unnecessarily.
308 
309ANIMAL FOOD GROUPS
310 
311Herbivores eat plants. Example: goat.
312 
313Carnivores eat other animals. Example: lion.
314 
315Omnivores eat both plants and animals. Example: human beings.
316 
317ACTIVITY
318 
319Complete the sentences.
320 
3211. A lion is a __________.
3222. A goat is a __________.
3233. A fish lives in __________.
3244. A chicken is a __________ animal.
325 
326ANSWERS
327 
3281. Carnivore
3292. Herbivore
3303. Water
3314. Domestic
332 
333REVIEW QUESTIONS
334 
3351. What are animals?
3362. Mention three domestic animals.
3373. Mention three wild animals.
3384. What is a herbivore?
3395. Give one example of an omnivore.
340 
341 
342CHAPTER 4: THE HUMAN BODY
343 
344The human body is made up of different parts. Each part has a special function.
345 
346EXTERNAL BODY PARTS
347 
348These are parts we can see outside the body.
349 
350Examples include:
351 
352- Head
353- Eyes
354- Nose
355- Mouth
356- Ears
357- Neck
358- Hands
359- Legs
360- Feet
361- Skin
362 
363SENSE ORGANS
364 
365Sense organs help us to learn about our surroundings.
366 
367EYES
368 
369The eyes help us to see.
370 
371EARS
372 
373The ears help us to hear sounds.
374 
375NOSE
376 
377The nose helps us to smell and breathe.
378 
379TONGUE
380 
381The tongue helps us to taste food and speak.
382 
383SKIN
384 
385The skin helps us to feel touch, heat, cold and pain.
386 
387INTERNAL ORGANS
388 
389Internal organs are found inside the body.
390 
391- The heart pumps blood around the body.
392- The lungs help us to breathe.
393- The stomach helps to digest food.
394- The brain controls the body.
395- The bones support and protect the body.
396- The muscles help the body to move.
397 
398CARING FOR THE BODY
399 
400We should:
401 
402- Eat healthy food.
403- Exercise regularly.
404- Sleep well.
405- Keep the body clean.
406- Visit a health worker when sick.
407- Avoid dangerous substances.
408 
409ACTIVITY
410 
411Write the correct sense organ.
412 
4131. We use the __________ to see.
4142. We use the __________ to hear.
4153. We use the __________ to taste.
4164. We use the __________ to smell.
4175. We use the __________ to feel.
418 
419ANSWERS
420 
4211. Eyes
4222. Ears
4233. Tongue
4244. Nose
4255. Skin
426 
427REVIEW QUESTIONS
428 
4291. Name five external body parts.
4302. What is the function of the heart?
4313. What do the lungs do?
4324. Mention two ways of caring for the body.
433 
434 
435CHAPTER 5: FOOD AND NUTRITION
436 
437Food is anything we eat or drink that helps the body to live, grow and remain healthy.
438 
439IMPORTANCE OF FOOD
440 
441Food:
442 
443- Gives us energy.
444- Helps us to grow.
445- Repairs damaged body parts.
446- Protects us from diseases.
447- Keeps the body strong.
448 
449CLASSES OF FOOD
450 
4511. CARBOHYDRATES
452 
453Carbohydrates give the body energy.
454 
455Examples include:
456 
457- Rice
458- Yam
459- Bread
460- Maize
461- Potatoes
462 
4632. PROTEINS
464 
465Proteins help the body to grow and repair itself.
466 
467Examples include:
468 
469- Eggs
470- Fish
471- Beans
472- Meat
473- Milk
474 
4753. FATS AND OILS
476 
477Fats and oils provide energy and help keep the body warm.
478 
479Examples include:
480 
481- Groundnuts
482- Palm oil
483- Butter
484- Avocado
485 
4864. VITAMINS
487 
488Vitamins protect the body from diseases.
489 
490Sources include:
491 
492- Fruits
493- Vegetables
494- Carrots
495- Oranges
496- Tomatoes
497 
4985. MINERALS
499 
500Minerals help the body develop strong bones, teeth and blood.
501 
502Examples include calcium and iron.
503 
5046. WATER
505 
506Water helps digestion, removes waste and controls body temperature.
507 
508A BALANCED DIET
509 
510A balanced diet contains different classes of food in the correct amounts.
511 
512A healthy meal may contain:
513 
514- Rice or yam
515- Beans or fish
516- Vegetables
517- Fruit
518- Clean water
519 
520FOOD HYGIENE
521 
522We should:
523 
524- Wash our hands before eating.
525- Wash fruits and vegetables.
526- Cover food.
527- Cook food properly.
528- Keep food away from flies.
529- Drink clean water.
530 
531REVIEW QUESTIONS
532 
5331. Why do we need food?
5342. Name two sources of protein.
5353. What do carbohydrates provide?
5364. What is a balanced diet?
5375. Mention three food hygiene rules.
538 
539 
540CHAPTER 6: PERSONAL HYGIENE AND HEALTH
541 
542Personal hygiene means keeping the body clean and healthy.
543 
544GOOD HYGIENE PRACTICES
545 
546BATHING
547 
548We should bathe regularly to remove sweat, dirt and germs.
549 
550BRUSHING THE TEETH
551 
552We should brush our teeth at least twice daily. This helps prevent tooth decay and bad breath.
553 
554WASHING HANDS
555 
556Hands should be washed:
557 
558- Before eating.
559- After using the toilet.
560- After touching animals.
561- After playing.
562- Before preparing food.
563 
564CLEAN CLOTHING
565 
566We should wear clean clothes and change them regularly.
567 
568CLEAN FINGERNAILS
569 
570Long and dirty fingernails can carry germs. Nails should be trimmed and cleaned.
571 
572CLEAN SURROUNDINGS
573 
574Rubbish should be placed in a bin. Stagnant water should be removed because it may allow mosquitoes to breed.
575 
576DISEASES
577 
578A disease is a condition that makes the body unwell.
579 
580Examples include:
581 
582- Malaria
583- Cholera
584- Cough
585- Measles
586- Ringworm
587- Diarrhoea
588 
589PREVENTING DISEASES
590 
591We can prevent diseases by:
592 
593- Keeping clean.
594- Eating safe food.
595- Drinking clean water.
596- Sleeping under a mosquito net.
597- Taking recommended vaccinations.
598- Keeping our environment clean.
599- Reporting illness to an adult or health worker.
600 
601REVIEW QUESTIONS
602 
6031. What is personal hygiene?
6042. Mention three times when we should wash our hands.
6053. Why should rubbish be placed in a bin?
6064. Mention three ways of preventing diseases.
607 
608 
609CHAPTER 7: OUR ENVIRONMENT
610 
611The environment is everything around us. It includes living and non-living things.
612 
613PARTS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
614 
615LIVING PARTS
616 
617- People
618- Animals
619- Plants
620- Microorganisms
621 
622NON-LIVING PARTS
623 
624- Air
625- Water
626- Soil
627- Sunlight
628- Rocks
629- Temperature
630 
631HABITATS
632 
633A habitat is the natural home of a plant or animal.
634 
635Examples:
636 
637- A pond is a habitat for fish and frogs.
638- A forest is a habitat for monkeys and birds.
639- A grassland is a habitat for cattle and antelopes.
640- Soil is a habitat for earthworms.
641 
642POLLUTION
643 
644Pollution occurs when harmful substances make the environment dirty or unsafe.
645 
646TYPES OF POLLUTION
647 
648Air pollution is caused by smoke and harmful gases.
649 
650Water pollution is caused by dumping waste into water.
651 
652Land pollution is caused by littering and careless dumping.
653 
654Noise pollution is caused by very loud sounds.
655 
656PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
657 
658We should:
659 
660- Plant trees.
661- Avoid littering.
662- Reuse and recycle materials.
663- Dispose of waste properly.
664- Keep water sources clean.
665- Avoid unnecessary burning.
666- Protect animals and plants.
667 
668ACTIVITY
669 
670State whether each action is good or harmful.
671 
6721. Planting trees
6732. Throwing plastic into a river
6743. Putting rubbish in a bin
6754. Burning waste near a house
676 
677ANSWERS
678 
6791. Good
6802. Harmful
6813. Good
6824. Harmful
683 
684REVIEW QUESTIONS
685 
6861. What is the environment?
6872. Define habitat.
6883. Mention two types of pollution.
6894. State four ways to protect the environment.
690 
691 
692CHAPTER 8: AIR, WATER AND SOIL
693 
694AIR
695 
696Air is the mixture of gases around us. We cannot usually see air, but we can feel it when it moves.
697 
698Air is important because:
699 
700- People and animals need it to breathe.
701- Plants use some gases in air to make food.
702- Fire needs air to burn.
703- Moving air can help boats and windmills.
704 
705WATER
706 
707Water is necessary for all living things.
708 
709Uses of water include:
710 
711- Drinking
712- Cooking
713- Bathing
714- Washing
715- Farming
716- Cleaning
717- Giving water to animals
718 
719SOURCES OF WATER
720 
721- Rain
722- Rivers
723- Lakes
724- Wells
725- Springs
726- Boreholes
727 
728Water for drinking should be clean. It may be made safer by boiling, filtering or treating it properly.
729 
730SOIL
731 
732Soil is the loose material covering much of the land. Plants grow in soil.
733 
734Soil contains:
735 
736- Small rocks
737- Water
738- Air
739- Decayed plants and animals
740- Minerals
741 
742IMPORTANCE OF SOIL
743 
744Soil:
745 
746- Supports plant growth.
747- Provides a home for some animals.
748- Helps farmers grow crops.
749- Stores water.
750 
751SOIL EROSION
752 
753Soil erosion is the removal of topsoil by wind or water.
754 
755It can be reduced by:
756 
757- Planting grass and trees.
758- Avoiding overgrazing.
759- Building terraces.
760- Covering bare soil.
761- Planting crops across slopes.
762 
763REVIEW QUESTIONS
764 
7651. Why is air important?
7662. Mention four uses of water.
7673. Name three sources of water.
7684. What is soil erosion?
7695. State two ways of preventing soil erosion.
770 
771 
772CHAPTER 9: SAFETY AND FIRST AID
773 
774Safety means protecting ourselves and others from harm.
775 
776SAFETY AT HOME
777 
778- Do not play with fire.
779- Do not touch electrical wires.
780- Keep medicines away from children.
781- Do not handle sharp objects carelessly.
782- Do not play with matches.
783- Tell an adult when you see danger.
784 
785SAFETY AT SCHOOL
786 
787- Walk, do not run, on slippery floors.
788- Do not push others.
789- Use tools correctly.
790- Keep classrooms tidy.
791- Follow the teacher’s instructions.
792 
793ROAD SAFETY
794 
795- Walk carefully beside the road.
796- Use pedestrian crossings.
797- Look left, right and left again before crossing.
798- Obey traffic lights.
799- Do not play on the road.
800- Wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or motorcycle.
801 
802FIRST AID
803 
804First aid is the immediate help given to an injured or sick person before professional medical care arrives.
805 
806MINOR CUTS
807 
808- Wash your hands.
809- Rinse the cut with clean water.
810- Apply gentle pressure if it is bleeding.
811- Cover it with a clean dressing.
812- Tell an adult.
813 
814MINOR BURNS
815 
816- Move away from the source of heat.
817- Cool the burn with clean running water.
818- Tell an adult.
819- Do not apply mud, oil or toothpaste.
820 
821NOSEBLEED
822 
823- Sit upright.
824- Lean slightly forward.
825- Pinch the soft part of the nose gently.
826- Tell an adult if the bleeding continues.
827 
828REVIEW QUESTIONS
829 
8301. What is safety?
8312. Mention three safety rules at home.
8323. What is first aid?
8334. What should be done for a minor burn?
834 
835 
836CHAPTER 10: REVISION QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
837 
838MULTIPLE-CHOICE QUESTIONS
839 
840Choose the correct answer.
841 
8421. The study of living things is called:
843 
844A. Geography
845B. Biology
846C. History
847 
8482. Which of these is living?
849 
850A. Stone
851B. Chair
852C. Tree
853 
8543. The part of a plant that absorbs water is the:
855 
856A. Root
857B. Flower
858C. Fruit
859 
8604. A lion is a:
861 
862A. Herbivore
863B. Carnivore
864C. Plant
865 
8665. The organ used for seeing is the:
867 
868A. Ear
869B. Eye
870C. Nose
871 
8726. Beans are rich in:
873 
874A. Protein
875B. Water only
876C. Air
877 
8787. A natural home of an organism is called a:
879 
880A. Habitat
881B. Hospital
882C. Classroom
883 
8848. Throwing waste into a river causes:
885 
886A. Water pollution
887B. Clean water
888C. Soil formation
889 
8909. We should brush our teeth to prevent:
891 
892A. Tooth decay
893B. Growth
894C. Breathing
895 
89610. First aid is given to an injured person:
897 
898A. Immediately
899B. After several months
900C. Never
901 
902ANSWERS
903 
9041. B
9052. C
9063. A
9074. B
9085. B
9096. A
9107. A
9118. A
9129. A
91310. A
914 
915SHORT-ANSWER QUESTIONS
916 
9171. Define biology.
9182. List five characteristics of living things.
9193. Name four parts of a plant.
9204. State three uses of plants.
9215. What is a balanced diet?
9226. Mention five personal hygiene practices.
9237. What is pollution?
9248. Mention three sources of water.
9259. State three road-safety rules.
92610. Why should we protect our environment?
927 
928SUGGESTED ANSWERS
929 
9301. Biology is the study of living things.
931 
9322. Movement, breathing, feeding, growth and reproduction.
933 
9343. Roots, stem, leaves and flowers.
935 
9364. Plants provide food, medicine and shade.
937 
9385. A balanced diet contains different classes of food in the correct amounts.
939 
9406. Bathing, brushing the teeth, washing hands, wearing clean clothes and trimming fingernails.
941 
9427. Pollution is the contamination of the environment by harmful substances.
943 
9448. Rain, rivers and wells.
945 
9469. Use pedestrian crossings, obey traffic lights and do not play on the road.
947 
94810. We protect the environment to keep people, plants and animals healthy and safe.
949 
950 
951GLOSSARY
952 
953Animal: A living thing that can usually move from place to place.
954 
955Biology: The study of living things.
956 
957Disease: A condition that makes the body unwell.
958 
959Environment: Everything around us.
960 
961First aid: Immediate help given to an injured or sick person.
962 
963Food: Material taken into the body for energy, growth and health.
964 
965Habitat: The natural home of a plant or animal.
966 
967Living thing: Something that has life.
968 
969Non-living thing: Something that has no life.
970 
971Pollution: The making of the environment dirty or unsafe.
972 
973Root: The part of a plant that usually grows underground.
974 
975Soil: The loose material in which plants grow.
976 
977Vitamin: A substance needed in small amounts to keep the body healthy.
978 
979 
980END OF BOOK
981 
982BIOLOGY FOR STANDARD 4
983 
984Written by Ikenna Emmanuel

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