Classify - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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In GCSE Biology, to "classify" means to organise living things into groups based on their similarities and differences. Scientists use classification to understand how organisms are related to each other, and it helps us to study the vast diversity of life on Earth. For example, animals are grouped into categories like mammals, birds, and reptiles. Plants, fungi, and microorganisms each have their own groups as well. This system of classification helps make it easier to study and learn about living things, since organisms in the same group often share common traits. By classifying, we can trace how life forms have evolved and how they are connected in the tree of life.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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