How and Why Organisms Are Classified

The science of classifying and naming organisms based on their different characteristics is called

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Why is it important to classify living organisms?

• The DNA of organisms may be more easily analyzed.

• Organisms may survive longer if they are classified.

• Scientists may study and discuss organisms more easily.

• Classifying is needed before scientists may make observations.

What is one reason scientists have developed a system to classify organisms?

• Classification allows for organisms to interbreed and change.

• A system was needed to better track genetic changes in an organism.

• Classification allows for better identification of new organisms.

• A system was needed to see microscopic organisms with more detail.

Which is the best analogy for classification?

• Classification is like setting up a phone tree in which one person calls the next two people, and those people call the next four people.

• Classification is like creating an alphabetized list of people based on their last names.

• Classification is like organizing a car wash where everyone brings needed items and then works.

• Classification is like organizing a closet by hanging clothes together based on their type, color, and season.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

How did Linnaeus improve the classification of organisms?

• He created a way of naming organisms based on genus and species.

• He began grouping animals based on the places they live.

• He suggested a third domain to classify new types of organisms.

• He introduced a new kingdom to include different kinds of bacteria.

• 2

• 3

• 5

• 6

Which statement best summarizes how classification systems have changed over time?

• Classification systems have become simpler to allow for all the discoveries made about organisms.

• Classification systems have become more complex to allow for all the discoveries made about organisms.

• Classification systems have become simpler to match the increased population sizes of organisms.

• Classification systems have the become more complex to match the increased population sizes of organisms.

Which best matches the modern classification system?

• three domains and six kingdoms

• six domains and five kingdoms

• six domains and three kingdoms

• five domains and six kingdoms

A student drew this diagram of Woese’s modern system of classification.

What is the error in this diagram?

• The top level is missing.

• The class and order levels are switched.

• The bottom level is missing.

• The kingdom and family levels are switched.

How many kingdoms are in the modern system of classification?

• 2

• 6

• 8

• 15