Learn about dichotomous keys, plant identification, and how to care for the planet with a lesson that includes several hands-on and innovative activities. Kids go on a plant scavenger hunt and classify the plants that they find...

Students are introduced to the purpose of dichotomous keys and create one together as a class. In groups, they use a digital atlas to examine the different types of amphibians in Idaho. Using this information, they make their own...

Students are shown how to use the butterfly section of the Digital Altals of Idaho. They discuss how to make a dichotomous key. Students use their skills of observation and recognize defining characteristics that distinguish different...

Students are introduced to the use of dichotomous keys as a simple means of beginning scientific observations in nature. They comprehend how to use a dichotomous key. Students distinguish characteristics of a group of organisms. They...

Students use a dichotomous key to identify unknown fictitious organisms in an assessment designed to be used after a discussion on the use of a dichotomous keys has occurred. Follow up questions about key included.

High schoolers analyze how a dichotomous key helps us explain and identify unknown organisms. They design and construct a dichotomous key, developing a list of three observable characteristics per organism.

How do you classify a newly discovered species? Learners view a presentation and complete research about biodiversity and the classification hierarchy. The lesson plan includes activities with dichotomous keys and work on classifying...

Learners use a dichotomous key to distinguish between different types of clouds

Students identify the species of pine trees that are found in their area. They use unlabeled "mystery" samples and a dichotomous key to identify the pine trees to species. After identification, they use a field guide to answer worksheet...

Students classify objects and organisms using a dichotomous key. They are shown a demo by the teacher and then practice on their own. They discover why classification is important.

Eighth graders use a dichotomous key to identify unknown fictitious organisms. They work individually during this exercise. The task is designed to take students approximately 15-25 minutes to complete.

Young scholars utilize dichotomous keys to identify trees in their schools.  In this ecological identification instructional activity, students practice creating dichotomous keys based on simple subjects such as hair color or sex of...

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...

This exam covers every topic in a typical first-year biology course. A wide variety of question styles gives high schoolers every opportunity to show what they know. Why start from scratch when a comprehensive final exam is easily...

Fifth graders identify trees along a nature trail. Using a dichotomous key, 5th graders answer questions to aid in their identification of trees along a specified nature trail. Observations are recorded in their science journals. Sample...

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...

Compare and contrast macromolecules made from the same elements. Young scholars learn how the structure of a molecule has as much influence on a compound as the elements in the molecule. They experiment with molecular model kits to...

Seventh graders use their observation and measurement skills to identify trees. Using a tree diagram, they label the parts and discuss the functions of the tree. They practice using a dichotomous key to identify trees as well.

Learners, after making quantitative and qualitative observations of their rocks, construct a Venn diagram or dichotomous key to classify their rocks.

Students conduct observations and use a dichotomous key to identify clouds they see.

Tenth graders conduct various activities utilizing the scientific method to formulate a hypothesis, conduct a controlled experiment, collect and analyze the data and communicate their results through a poster. They also identify...

Students use the reptile section of the Digital Atlas of Idaho. They make a dichotomous key and decide on what defining characteristics they can use to distinguish between species. They hone their observation skills and recognize...

How diverse are the benthic organisms found in local streams? Using the information learned in previous lessons on identification of macroinvertebrates and on calculating stream index values, groups determine the health of local...

Students investigate various tree leaves and use a dichotomous key to classify the leaves. In this leaf classification lesson, students study various types of leaves and their Genus. Students record observations for each Genus.