# Explain how the Linnaean system classifies living organisms.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.6.4 Classification of living organisms · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Organisms are placed into groups based on their characteristics / structure
2. The system uses seven levels / taxa: kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus and species
3. Organisms are placed into smaller and more specific groups as you move down the hierarchy
4. Organisms in the same group share more characteristics with each other / are more closely related

## Key terms

- [Linnaean system](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/linnaean-system)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-how-the-linnaean-system-classifies-442ab70e) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.