This week, we talked about classification systems. They started with a fun animal classification activity using a dichotomous key and then, once they had the hang of that, they worked with partners to create their own system to classify a variety of dry beans. They quickly found that it's a lot trickier than it seems at first; many of the groups started with one idea and then changed their minds halfway into it and tried another method to begin. It was interesting that all 4 groups used a different set of characteristics to begin. In our discussion afterwards, we had them share what characteristics they began with, and then we set out to create a class classification, where they each voted on what they thought we should start with (White/Colored won), and then how we should break down the sub-groups. We had some insightful comments about why they thought their idea would give the best groups, and why it was wrong to force everyone to agree on one set system. We mentioned Linnaeus and how not all scientist today agree with his classification system and it has been updated over the years. Science really is a field of discovery and change.
We did not get a chance to watch the videos I'd hoped to share, so make sure you check out the links below. Follow up ideas: Books: Animal School: What Class Are You? (A fun, simple intro to classification written in rhyme) Classifying Living Things series (Several available at the Livermore library.) Videos: Ameoba Sisters: Classification (This is one I was going to show in class.) Classification of Living Things (A short, simple look at the classification system and why we use scientific names.) Basic Biology: Classification of Living Things. (This one goes into a lot more detail on the binomial naming system and how the 5 kingdoms are divided. It would be perfect if you want to do more work with these concepts.) Activities: Coniferous Tree Identification. Go for a walk where you can find coniferous trees and use the dichotomous key to determine what types of trees you have found (key linked to the title). Candy Classification--This one is especially timely with Halloween coming up. Do a simple classification activity like we did with the beans, or have them create a dichotomous key for someone else to follow (lab linked to the title.)
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May 2020
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