Question 1: Properties of life and recognizing living and nonliving things

Consider the properties and characteristics of life. Choose two items (one of which is alive or has been alive and one which has never been alive). Compare and contrast their characteristics. What characteristics do they share and how are they different. Be prepared to discuss the importance of the various characteristics of living things and how their combination makes life an emergent part of the universe.
Question 2: Thinking as a scientist, designing research

Consider the process by which scientists think through information and solve problems and how this is similar and different to how nonscientists approach the world. Consider a small problem that is solvable scientifically. Describe the process you would go through in solving that problem. Be prepared to discuss the significance of the scientific approach to the development and advancement of human knowledge.