Kingdom - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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In GCSE Biology, the term 'Kingdom' describes one of the major groups into which all living things are classified. The system of classification, also known as taxonomy, helps scientists to organise and study the diversity of life. There are traditionally five kingdoms: Animals, Plants, Fungi, Protists, and Prokaryotes (which includes Bacteria). Each kingdom is defined by certain characteristics shared by the organisms within it, such as how they obtain food, the structure of their cells, and how they reproduce. Understanding kingdoms helps us learn about the evolutionary relationships between different forms of life and how they function within ecosystems.

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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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