Dichotomous Key Lesson Plan 1c2zk

Arie Kazmierczak Cooperative Learning Lesson Plan Title Subject Areas

Taxonomy and Dichotomous Keys Students will demonstrate their understanding by classifying various “unknown” species.

Grade Level Summary of Lesson

8th Grade Through direct instruction students will learn about taxonomy and how to use dichotomous keys to classify and identify known species. Through cooperative learning students will practice using a dichotomous key to classify known species 3.1.7.B5- Compare and contrast observable patterns in the physical characteristics across families, strains and species. 3.1.8.A9- Know that both direct and indirect observations are used by scientists to study the natural world and universe. Formulate and revise explanations and models using logic and evidence. Recognize and analyze alternative explanations and models. What is Taxonomy? How do we use a Dichotomous Key? Students will be able to:  Define taxonomy using the proper terminology.  Identify patterns in the physical characteristic of a species.  Classify known species using a dichotomous key. Taxonomy: the science of classifying organisms. Dichotomous Key: A step by step approach to identify an organism using a series of paired statements.

Standards

Essential Questions Objectives

Vocabulary

Estimated Time Materials Required

50 Minutes. PowerPoint on Taxonomy, Worksheets on dichotomous keys.

Procedure

Before (~5 minutes) Write bell ringer question on board, along with today’s objectives. Bell Ringer Question: Name the five different Kingdoms? (Discuss results with class as a whole) Read objectives: Students will be able to define taxonomy and classify species using a dichotomous key. During (~ 25 minutes) Begin presentation. Review material from yesterday’s class going over the 7 Levels of classification briefly. Define taxonomy. And Explain the history of dichotomous keys, how they are used. Demonstrate how a dichotomous key is used with the examples

Formative Assessment Student Resources Accommodations Adaptations Assessment

provided in the PowerPoint very carefully. After (~15 minutes) out the dragon dichotomous key worksheets. Have students work in groups of two. Using the skills that were demonstrated in the lesson identify the species of dragon. Go over the worksheet collectively as a class. Reviewing the material and process that was covered in class. Various questions throughout the lesson. Classroom activity: Example dichotomous keys Power point handouts, worksheets I will follow the guidelines and procedures that are included in the IEP’s of the students. Group work on the Dragon Dich Key