Which of the following statements are correct regarding the characteristics of living organisms?
$(a)$ Reproduction is a synonymous feature of growth.
$(b)$ Metabolism is a defining feature of all living organisms.
$(c)$ Cellular organization is the defining feature of life forms.
$(d)$ Consciousness is not a defining feature of living organisms.

• A
  $(a)$ and $(d)$
• B
  $(a)$ and $(b)$
• C
  $(b)$ and $(c)$
• D
  $(c)$ and $(d)$