Are viruses living organisms?

[RYAN LHS]

    Does anyone know of important conclusive studies or articles which
show proof that viruses can be considered organisms?  Also if you know a
lot about this question please write to me, I'm in need of some expert
evidence and advice which proves this fact for a research paper in my AP
Biology class. Anything which will help me convince my teacher that
viruses are organisms will be much appreciated.

                       Thanks,
                       RYAN LHS at AOL.com