QUESTION 21 (4 marks)
a) Describe two key features of the Linnaean system of biological classification.
[2 marks]
b) Explain, using an example, how the Linnaean system allows researchers to infer similarities between species.
[2 marks]
QCAA guide · typeset solution
QCAA sample response and mark allocation
21a) | The Linnaean system is hierarchical, grouping organisms into taxa based on similarity of physical features. It assigns a two-part name to species which consists of the genus name and a species name, e.g. Homo sapiens. | • describes one key feature of the Linnaean system [1 mark] • describes a second key feature of the Linnaean system [1 mark] |
21b) | Because the system is hierarchical, organisms in the same taxa can be assumed to have a set of common physical characteristics, for example, all organisms in the phylum Chordata have a backbone. | • explains how the Linnaean system allows researchers to infer similarities between species [1 mark] • provides an example [1 mark] |
QCAA sample response and marking criteria reproduced from the official guide.
Compare your working with the guide above.