Characteristics of a Virus (Literacy Activity)

Identify viral characteristics and explain why they are not considered living organisms

​I will

Compare and contrast the characteristics of life against viruses.

We will

Today

Multiple Choice

Which conclusion about the HIV infection of a host cell is best supported by the diagram?

• it takes place outside of living cells

• It relies on the host cell to reproduce

• it involves the process of meiosis

• It requires carbon dioxide (CO₂)

Step 1 - Reach each statement.

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Step 2 - After each statement, place a check in the Agree/Disagree in the Your Opinion column.​

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Anticipatory Guide

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Viruses Handout

Read the virus handout.

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When you are done reading, return to the Anticipatory Guide and ​complete the Finding column.

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Provide one piece of evidence for each statement to support your Agree/Disagree views. ​Use the handout for your evidence.

Open Ended

What key characteristic(s) could be used to distinguish a virus from a living cell?

Multiple Choice

True or false: Viruses are more complex than cells.

• True

• False

Open Ended

Name and describe the two ways viruses disrupt the homeostasis of a cell.

Open Ended

How can people treat or fight a viral infection?

Multiple Choice

Which conclusion about the HIV infection of a host cell is best supported by the diagram?

• it takes place outside of living cells

• It relies on the host cell to reproduce

• it involves the process of meiosis

• It requires carbon dioxide (CO₂)