9-12

A2: Describe similarities and differences among organisms within each level of the taxonomic system for classifying organisms (kingdom through species).

Curriculum Organizing Questions	What are biological classification systems based on? What is a hierarchal system? How does it work? How can a biologist examine cells to determine species similarity? How does biological classification reflect evolutionary relationships? How do humans fit within the biological classification system?
Elaboration	Biological classifications are based on how organisms are related. Organisms are classified into a hierarchy of groups and subgroups based on similarities which reflect their evolutionary relationships. Species is the most fundamental unit of classification. NSES C3e. At different degrees of relatedness dogs are classified with fish as having backbones, with cows as having hair, and with cats as being meat-eaters.SFAA p. 60.
Specific Ideas	Biological classifications are based on how organisms are related. NSES C3e. Organisms are classified into a hierarchy of groups and subgroups based on similarities which reflect their evolutionary relationships. NSES C3e. Species is the most fundamental unit of classification. NSES C3e. Genetic similarity forms the basis for species. NSES p. 181.
Developmental & Instructional Implications	Understanding and appreciating the diversity of life does not come from students knowing bits of information or classification categories about many different species; rather it comes from their ability to see in organisms the patterns of similarity and difference that permeate the living world.Benchmarks p.101.
Examples

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