BIO.6 a - Similarities Among Organisms

The student will investigate and understand bases for modern classification systems. Key concepts include

a)  structural similarities among organisms.

• Organisms are diverse, yet share similar characteristics.
• Life can be organized into a functional and structural hierarchy.

• I can identify how humans are similar to other organisms.

• Biological classifications are based on how organisms are related. Organisms are classified into a hierarchy of groups and subgroups based on similarities that reflect their relationships over a period of time.
  
• Binomial nomenclature is a standard way of identifying a species with a scientific two-word name. The first word is the genus name and the second the species name. Species is the basic unit of classification. A species is defined as a group of organisms that has the ability to interbreed and produce fertile offspring in nature.
  
• Similarities among organisms on the structural and metabolic levels are reflected in the large degree of similarity in proteins and nucleic acids of different organisms. Diversity is the product of variations in these molecules.
  

In order to meet this standard, it is expected that students will

a) describe relationships based on homologous structures.

     compare structural characteristics of an extinct organism, as evidenced by its fossil record, with present, familiar organisms.

evolution, theory, fossil, artificial selection, struggle for existence, fitness, adaptation, survival of the fittest, natural selection, descent with modification, common descent, homologous structure, vestigial organ, chordate, notochord, pharyngeal pouch, vertebra, cartilage, atrium, ventricle, cerebrum, cerebellum, medulla oblongata, lateral line system, swim bladder, oviparous, ovoviviparous, viviparous, cloaca, nictitating membrane, tympanic membrane, ectotherm, amniotic egg, carapace, plastron, feather, endotherm, crop, gizzard, air sac