This course introduces students to the science and principles of biological classification. Taxonomy is the foundation of biology that allows us to name, describe, and organize all living organisms into a logical system. 

You will learn how organisms are identified, named using binomial nomenclature, and grouped into hierarchical categories from Kingdom to Species. The course covers both classical taxonomy based on morphology + anatomy, and modern approaches using molecular data and phylogenetics. 

Through lectures, practical activities, and quizzes on Gnomio, you’ll gain skills to classify unknown organisms, use dichotomous keys, and understand the importance of taxonomy in conservation, medicine, and research.

   Learning Objectives 
By the end of this course, you should be able to:
1. Define taxonomy, systematics, and classification and explain their importance.
2. Apply the rules of binomial nomenclature according to ICZN/ICN codes.
3. List and explain the 7 main taxonomic ranks: Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.
4. Construct and use dichotomous keys for identification.
5. Compare phenetic, cladistic, and evolutionary classification systems.
6. Explain how DNA/molecular data is used in modern taxonomy.
7. Identify major groups of organisms: Bacteria, Protista, Fungi, Plantae, Animalia.

 Course Outline / Topics
Module 1: Basics of Taxonomy  
1.1 Definition, history, and scope of taxonomy  
1.2 Importance of classification in biology

Module 2: Nomenclature & Taxonomic Hierarchy  
2.1 Binomial nomenclature rules  
2.2 Taxonomic ranks and categories  

Module 3: Methods of Classification  
3.1 Classical/morphological taxonomy  
3.2 Numerical taxonomy  
3.3 Cladistics and phylogenetic trees  

Module 4: Modern Taxonomy  
4.1 Molecular taxonomy - DNA barcoding  
4.2 Role of taxonomy in biodiversity and conservation  

Module 5: Practical Identification  
5.1 Use of dichotomous keys  
5.2 Field and lab identification of specimens

   Assessment 
1. Quizzes: Weekly MCQs after each module - 20%
2. Assignments: Dichotomous key construction, classification exercise - 20%
3. Practical Test: Identification of preserved specimens - 20%