Research in biology would be impossible without a common framework for grouping and distinguishing species. This program looks at the classification system first proposed by Linnaeus and shows how it developed into the organizational structure used in the life sciences today. Viewers also learn how new scientific names are created and how the existing system has been further refined using DNA studies. Overviewing the five kingdoms and their major subdivisions, the film describes how biologists use dichotomous keys to classify specimens and provides a helpful example of constructing a key.
Research in biology would be impossible without a common framework for grouping and distinguishing species. This program looks at the classification system first proposed by Linnaeus and shows how it developed into the organizational structure used in the life sciences today. Viewers also learn how new scientific names are created and how the existing system has been further refined using DNA studies. Overviewing the five kingdoms and their major subdivisions, the film describes how biologists use dichotomous keys to classify specimens and provides a helpful example of constructing a key.
General Note
Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on Jan. 24, 2010.
Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.
Content Note
Importance of Classification Systems (1:19) -- Hierarchical System of Order (1:15) -- Biologists and Botanists (1:49) -- Classification Keys (0:58) -- Explanation of Dichotomous Keys (1:16) -- Technology and Plant Classification (0:49) -- Steps of Classification (1:01) -- Natural World: Five Kingdoms (1:12) -- Kingdom Monera: Bacteria (0:49) -- Kingdom Protista (1:09) -- Kingdom Fungi (0:34) -- Kingdom Plantae: Plants (0:47) -- Kingdom Animalia (1:06) -- Vertebrates and Invertebrates (1:01) -- Birds (0:35) -- Amphibians, Fish, and Mammals (1:21) -- Reptiles (1:02) -- Last Step in Classification Process (1:02) -- Process of Organism Naming (2:37).
