Taxonomy is the branch of science that names and classifies plants, animals, fungi, microbes, etc. Using data from genetics, biochemistry, physiology and morphology (observations of leaves, flowers, roots, etc.), a plant taxonomist analyses this information to reveal groupings, relationships, and ultimately names. Simple dissection and observation of plant parts can quickly reveal the identity of most species. This course will focus on plant morphology. The goals are to familiarize participants with the basic characteristics botanists look at when investigating an unknown plant and to introduce them to the use of classic ID tools like dichotomous keys (decision trees) to distinguish this plant from that. Bring your hand lens.