Classification keys are diagrams which help us identify objects using yes/no questions.

To identify something is to be able to name it correctly.

An observable characteristic is a feature or property of something that we can see or use our other senses to observe.

The parts of a plants surface are called its structure.

A botanist is scientist who studies plants.

Classification keys to identify plants

Science

In this Living things and the environment unit, pupils learn to explore and use classification keys to help group, identify and name living things. In the Why we group and classify living things unit, they will build on this knowledge to give reasons why we classify plants and animals based on specific characteristics

In the Living things and where they live unit, pupils learnt that things can be grouped into: alive, dead and never alive. In this Living things in the environment unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to recognsie that living things can be grouped in a wider variety of ways

This unit focuses on grouping living things and using classification keys to identify and name them in various environments. It explores how environmental changes can pose dangers to organisms. Emphasis is on asking questions, collecting data, and using evidence to support conclusions.

Living things and the environment

Discriminatory behaviour or images, whether on the grounds of race, gender, disability, religion or belief or sexual orientation, or otherwise.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Activity that requires collection of items from an area (room, building).

A {{}} key is a series of yes/no questions about the observable characteristics of living things.

Which of these questions about the sunflower plant can be answered with a yes or a no? 

We can use classification keys to help us to __________ plants.

Which of these statements describe the structure of this pineapple plant?

Which plant is being described? It has rough bark and has small yellow flowers.

Which plant is being described? It has smooth bark and makes seeds that grow in green pods. 

A classification key is a series of {{}} questions about the observable characteristics of living things.

Which of these questions about an ant eater can be answered with a "yes" or a "no"?

Which of these things describes the structure of a living thing? 

Thinking about the observable characteristic of size, put these animals in order of smallest to largest. 

Which of these people might use a classification key at work to help them identify living things?

What type of animal am I? I have fins, I don't have a curly tail and I am white.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

Introduction

What will you need for this lesson?

Are you ready to learn?

Equipment

Content guidance

Supervision

Worksheet