Secret Code Game - Discovering Dichotomous Keys
Teach how to use dichotomous keys with this middle school biology activity.
Grade Level: Middle School
Discipline: Biology
Standards:
NGSS: MS-LS4-2. Apply scientific ideas to construct an explanation for the anatomical similarities and differences among modern organisms and between modern and fossil organisms to infer evolutionary relationships.
Texas TEKS: 7.11A: Examine organisms or their structures such as insects or leaves and use dichotomous keys for identification.
Teach your middle school biology students all about dichotomous keys with this easy, interactive lab idea. Using common classroom materials, this lab instructs students to identify items that are not like the others and then follow a special key to determine their secret names. This activity is great for classes of all different sizes and will be sure to have your students involved in the fun.
Learn more by downloading the activity plan above.
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