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This Use of Dichotomous Keys to Identify Stream Organisms lesson plan also includes:
What kind of organisms are living in the stream? After an explanation on how to use a dichotomous key, groups of three to four use the keys to identify macroinvertebrates from a local freshwater stream. Using the the concept of Stream Index Values, the groups then determine the water quality of the stream. The lesson is part one of a two-part series on dealing with macroinvertebrates.
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NGSS:
Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
- Use parts of the PowerPoint presentation that are relevant to the lesson as a reference for the class
Classroom Considerations
- Requires a source of macroinvertebrate specimens
- Must have access to dichotomous keys for identification purposes
Pros
- Provides instructions on how to collect specimens
- Includes a section of safety precautions
Cons
- The PowerPoint presentation is an overview of the entire series of lessons used as a conference presentation