CLASSIFICATION The grouping of things according to similar

CLASSIFICATION • The grouping of things according to similar characteristics. • TAXONOMY = The study of classification.

WHO WAS ARISTOTLE? • A Greek philosopher who invented the 1 st classification system, which was used until the middle of the 20 th century.

1 st CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM • PLANT or WALK ANIMAL FLY SWIM

WHO WAS CAROLUS LINNAEUS? • Swedish scientist who developed the classification system we use today. • Grouped organisms according to similarities in form. • Developed a simple naming system.

BINOMIAL NOMENCLATURE • Each kind of organism is given its own 2 -part scientific name. • GENUS, species • For example, a honey bee = Apis mellifera

All living things are classified into 7 major groups: • Look at the classification of the lion on page 22 in your textbook.

• 1. KINGDOM – Largest and most general group • 2. PHYLUM – 2 nd largest group; includes a large number of very different organisms

• 3. CLASS – 3 rd largest group • 4. ORDER – 4 th largest group • 5. FAMILY – Contains a number of closely related organisms

• 6. GENUS – 2 nd smallest group that consists of a number of closely related species • 7. SPECIES – Smallest and most specific group of organisms

To help you remember the classification groups from largest to smallest. . . • KINGS • PLAY • CARDS • • ON FAT GREEN STOOLS