Classification of Living Things: Web Expeditions

These explorations are intended to expand your understanding of the Linnaean classification system and how it is intended to work. Use your favorite Internet search programs to roam around the World Wide Web and discover what other people who have interest in these subjects have said to explain and support their views. Seek out reliable, factual sources. Do not stop at just two or three. It is worth the extra time to thoroughly research these questions and get views on all sides of the issues.

1.	Search the Internet for taxonomic classifications of recently discovered species. What was the basis for classifying them? Who gets to name a new species? Is there any check on irresponsible naming?
2.	Search the Internet for information about the extinction of species before they can be classified. What kinds of creatures are they? Where are these extinctions mostly occurring? What is causing the extinctions? Is the rate of extinction decreasing?
3.	Look on the Internet for alternatives to classifying all living things into five kingdoms. Why do some scientists believe that the five kingdom approach is inadequate? What are their explanations? (HINT: look for information about organisms that can live in extremely hot pools of water heated by volcanism.)
4.	Look on the Internet for information about the reproductive systems of monotremes and marsupials. Choose one species of each group. How are they different in terms of gestation and nurturing once they are born? As a consequence of the reproductive and infant care differences, what are the advantages and disadvantages for survival of these species?

If you have not been satisfied with the search programs that you have used in the past, try one of the following. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Unfortunately, none of them can link you to everything available on the Web today because of the rapid growth of sites and the way search engines selectively exclude certain kinds of sites.

If you don't have success searching with these programs, take a look at the Related Internet Links section of this tutorial.

CAUTION: In doing your searches, keep in mind that not everything on the Web is accurate, current, or true. To help discover which sites can be trusted and which ones cannot, ask yourself the following questions:

1.	Who are the authors of the site? What are their credentials? Are they experts?
2.	Is the information current? When was the website created and last updated?
3.	Do the facts presented in the site seem correct?
4.	Is the purpose of the site to objectively inform and explain or to persuade and sell a particular perspective?

Old Standby General Search Programs		Specialized Information Search Programs

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