Reading the River - Biological Classification

Youngsters create a list of grocery store items and then work together to categorize them as if they were setting up the shelves of the market. Then they are given a box of miscellaneous objects to practice categorizing. With these two experiences under their belts, you can then introduce them to the biological classification system and the use of a dichotomous key for identifying unknown organisms. The lesson plan is specific to Kentucky wildlife, but can easily be adapted no matter where you live.