Taxonomy, Classification, and Dichotomous Keys

Students create a dichotomous key using potato chips. In this classification lesson, students sort potato chips into groups based on observable characteristics. They record their results to create a dichotomous key in preparation for...

Junior biologists journey through the hiearchy of living things with these activites. Using a dichotomous key, they identify common algae, plants, and fish. They design their own key for a mixture of seeds and a collection of...

Tenth graders use a classification key to identify organisms.  For this classification lesson students identify freshwater species of fish and document their observations. 

Students draw comparisons between organisms. They classify organisms. Students are introduced to dichotomous keys and how to create and use a dichotomous key to identify a variety of objects. They begin by defining classification, and...

Find similarities in seemingly unlike organisms. The second instructional activity in a series of 12 builds the concept of a taxonomy and explores the use of a dichotomous key. Learners begin in part one by attempting to group a set of...

Explore the scientific method of classification. An interactive activity asks learners to create a classification system for a group of objects and develop a flow chart to communicate their systems. In addition, individuals use a...

It's a classification sensation! Demystify why we classify using an inquiry activity that helps your class sort things out. Groups begin by classifying a variety of shoes before they research organisms and design their own dichotomous...

Did you know scientists identify more than 13 billion species of organisms, and they discover more almost every day? An interesting presentation demonstrates how scientists keep track of so many species. It also shows how they...

Students investigate the classification process and nomenclatures used for classifying organisms. They study dichotomous keys to identify organisms with 90% accuracy. Students organize information regarding the relatedness of species.

Here's a great dichotomous key for beginners. Use gremlin-like creatures to learn how to use more taxonomic keys.