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 analyzes this information to reveal groupings, relationships, and ultimately names. Simple dissection and observation of plant parts can quickly reveal the identity of most species. The goals of the course are to familiarize attendees with the basic characteristics that botanists look at when investigating an unknown plant and to introduce attendees to the use of classic ID tools like dichotomous keys (decision trees) to distinguish this plant from that. Bring a hand lens.