Binomial Nomenclature

The universal system of naming organisms developed by Carolus Linnaeus

CAPS Grade 10 Life Sciences

In Life Sciences, binomial nomenclature helps learners avoid the confusion that comes with common names. One organism can have different local names, but its scientific name stays the same everywhere, which is why this system is important in classification and exam questions.

The Two-Part Name

Genus

First part - Always capitalized

  • Example: Panthera (big cats)
  • Example: Homo (humans)

    • Species

    Second part - Always lowercase

  • Example: leo (lion)
  • Example: sapiens (modern human)

    • Quick Check

    Which part of the scientific name is always capitalized?

    Formatting Rules (Exam Critical)

    When Typed

    Homo sapiens
    Panthera leo

    Rule: Use italics

    Exam Requirement

    When Handwritten

    Homo sapiens
    Panthera leo

    Rule: Underline the name

    Exam Requirement

    How should Panthera leo be written when handwritten?

    Why Latin?

    Latin is a "dead language" that doesn't change, preventing confusion across countries and centuries.

    Examples

    Panthera leo
    Panthera → leo
    Lion
    Homo sapiens
    Homo → sapiens
    Human
    Quercus robur
    Quercus → robur
    English Oak
    Escherichia coli
    Escherichia → coli
    E. coli

    In Panthera leo, what is the genus?

    In Homo sapiens, what is the species?

    Match the Names

    Panthera leo
    →
    Lion
    Homo sapiens
    →
    Human
    Quercus robur
    →
    Oak Tree
    Escherichia coli
    →
    E. coli

    Quick Reference

    GenusCapitalized
    SpeciesLowercase
    FormatTyped: italics
    Handwritten: underline

    Key Terms

    Binomial Nomenclature Genus Species Carolus Linnaeus Latin Italics Underline

    Key Rules to Remember