Below is the outline of the body of an essay on reptiles and amphibians.

1. Similarities between reptiles and amphibians

A. Physical characteristics/appearance: both animals are vertebrates, and both animals shed their skin.

B. Predator and prey: reptiles and amphibians are both predators and prey; both animals use their tongues to catch prey.

C. Ectotherms: both animals are ectothermic, or cold-blooded: they cannot regulate their own body temperatures internally like mammals can.

2. Differences between reptiles and amphibians

A. Eggs: amphibians lay their eggs in water, whereas reptiles lay their eggs on land.

B. Skin: amphibians have delicate, thin, semi-permeable skin, and they must live close to water or in very humid habitats; reptiles have dry, scaly skin that enables them to live away from water.

C. Metamorphosis: amphibians go through a metamorphosis from a tadpole or larval stage with gills to an air-breathing adult stage. Reptiles do not go through metamorphosis. When the young are born or hatched, they look like miniature adults.

Use the outline above to write a five- or six-sentence introduction. Be sure to include a hook in the introduction.

2-3 short sentences max

Reptiles and amphibians both belong to the fascinating world of cold-blooded creatures, sharing striking similarities and intriguing differences. From their physical appearance to their hunting tactics, these two groups of animals mirror each other in numerous ways. However, it is their distinct characteristics that truly set them apart. While amphibians lay their eggs in water, reptiles choose to deposit them on land. Furthermore, while reptiles possess dry, scaly skin that allows them to survive away from water, amphibians rely on their delicate, semi-permeable skin to withstand humid habitats. Lastly, it is the metamorphosis that distinguishes amphibians, as they undergo a dramatic transformation from aquatic larvae to air-breathing adults, while reptiles hatch in a miniature version of their adult selves. Through exploring these similarities and differences, we can uncover the wonders of these remarkable creatures.

Reptiles and amphibians, though distinct in many ways, share intriguing similarities that make them equally fascinating creatures. Both vertebrates, they share physical characteristics such as skin shedding and the use of their tongues as a predatory tool. Additionally, as ectotherms, reptiles and amphibians rely on their environment to regulate body temperature. However, their differences are equally noteworthy; while amphibians lay eggs in water and have delicate, moist skin, reptiles lay eggs on land and possess dry, scaly skin that enables them to live far from water sources. Furthermore, amphibians undergo metamorphosis, transforming from gilled larvae to air-breathing adults, whereas reptiles emerge from their eggs as miniature versions of their adult form. The intriguing contrasts and parallels between these two animal classes make them an intriguing subject of exploration.

Reptiles and amphibians share several key similarities and differences that make them fascinating creatures to study. From their physical characteristics and predation techniques to their ectothermic nature, these two groups of animals have much in common. However, it is their divergent reproductive strategies, distinct skin types, and contrasting life cycle processes that set them apart. By exploring the similarities and differences between reptiles and amphibians, we can gain a deeper understanding of these remarkable creatures and their unique adaptations. Prepare to dive into the captivating world of reptiles and amphibians as we uncover their extraordinary qualities and characteristics.