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.
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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.

Reptiles and amphibians are fascinating creatures that have captured the attention of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike. From their physical characteristics and predator-prey dynamics to their temperature regulation, these two groups of animals share several similarities. However, they also possess distinct differences that set them apart. For instance, amphibians lay their eggs in water, while reptiles opt for land. Additionally, their skin varies, with amphibians boasting delicate, thin skin that requires them to live near water, while reptiles possess dry, scaly skin that enables them to survive away from aquatic habitats. Moreover, amphibians undergo a metamorphosis, transitioning from a tadpole or larval stage with gills to an air-breathing adult form, whereas reptiles do not experience such transformation. Delving into these similarities and differences will provide a comprehensive understanding of these captivating creatures.