How Living Things Reproduce: From Plants to Microorganisms

Next Generation Science

This comprehensive educational video explores the fundamental biological process of reproduction across the diversity of life on Earth. Starting with the basic definition of an organism and the shared characteristics of living things, the video systematically breaks down how different kingdoms ensure the survival of their species. It covers the life cycles of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, highlighting the distinctions between sexual and asexual reproduction methods. The content is organized by kingdom, making it easy to compare and contrast reproductive strategies. Viewers learn about seed dispersal and spore formation in plants, the difference between egg-laying and live-bearing animals, and the rapid division of single-celled organisms. Specific examples, such as runners in strawberries, budding in yeast, and binary fission in bacteria, provide concrete illustrations of these biological concepts. Ideally suited for life science units in upper elementary and middle school, this video serves as an excellent anchor for lessons on biodiversity, cell biology, and life cycles. Teachers can use the clear visual examples—ranging from time-lapse plant growth to microscopic footage of cell division—to help students visualize processes that are often too slow or too small to see with the naked eye.