Classification keys to identify plants
I can identify plants using classification keys.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- A classification key is a series of yes/no questions about the observable characteristics of living things.
- Knowing the structure of plants is useful when using classification keys.
- Botanists discover, identify and study plants in the local and wider environment.
- Scientists including botanists, use classification keys to identify and group plants in the local and wider environment.
Keywords
Classification key - Classification keys are diagrams which help us identify objects using yes/no questions.
Identify - To identify something is to be able to name it correctly.
Observable characteristics - An observable characteristic is a feature or property of something that we can see or use our other senses to observe.
Structure - The parts of a plants surface are called its structure.
Botanist - A botanist is scientist who studies plants.
Common misconception
Pupils may try to identify plants using the habitat they are found in as opposed to their observable features.
Reinforce that where a plant lives is not an observable characteristic and cannot be used to identify it.
Equipment
If going outside to look at plants, you may need a hand lens and a camera.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A classification key is a series of questions about the observable characteristics of living things.
Q2.Which of these questions about an ant eater can be answered with a "yes" or a "no"?
Q3.Which of these things describes the structure of a living thing?
Q4.Thinking about the observable characteristic of size, put these animals in order of smallest to largest.
Q5.Which of these people might use a classification key at work to help them identify living things?
Q6.What type of animal am I? I have fins, I don't have a curly tail and I am white.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A key is a series of yes/no questions about the observable characteristics of living things.
Q2.Which of these questions about the sunflower plant can be answered with a yes or a no?
Q3.We can use classification keys to help us to __________ plants.
Q4.Which of these statements describe the structure of this pineapple plant?
Q5.Which plant is being described? It has rough bark and has small yellow flowers.
Q6.Which plant is being described? It has smooth bark and makes seeds that grow in green pods.