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 todays 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 yesterdays 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)
Pass 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
IEPs of the students.
Group work on the Dragon Dich Key