Create a Dichotomous Key

• Gather a group of objects into a bag. Students will create a dichotomous key to sort the objects into different classes. Each object needs to be assigned a binomial scientific name before creating the dichotomous key. Remember to name the objects based on their physical description. Give related objects the same genus name. For instance, if you have a hair brush and a comb, name the hair brush hair brushia and the comb hair combia. Prepare at least seven statements to use in your dichotomous key, such as: Is the object larger than your hand? Do you use this object on your body, or do you use this object to clean? After creating scientific names and the statements, you should be able to identify each object using your dichotomous key.
  
  

Classification of Trees Using Dichotomous Key

• Gather different tree leaves and pictures of trees. Find a dichotomous key for tree identification either online or at a bookstore. The dichotomous key will help you identify trees by their scientific name. Trees are either coniferous, keeping their needles all year long, or they are deciduous and lose their leaves every year. The key will help determine if the tree is coniferous or deciduous as well as help further identify the tree at the species level. The key includes a series of questions to lead to the species name of the tree.
  
  

Create a Dichotomous Key Using Nuts and Bolts

• Obtain a package of different types of nuts, bolts, and washers. Sort and organize the objects into groups of items that are exactly alike. Assign each type of nut, bolt or washer a scientific name and a description, based on its physical appearance, such as the length of the item, diameter, thickness of the metal plate, length of metal shaft or shape of item. Develop a dichotomous key that will help identify each item based on its appearance.
  
  

Classify Organisms Types with a Dichotomous Key

• Gather different pictures of living organisms. Choose animals that are land based as well as aquatic, small and large. Develop a dichotomous key for organisms using kingdom, phylum, genus and species. First, create a Latin-sounding name for each organism. For instance, if you have a picture of a starfish, you can call it Astro starria for its genus and species names. Remember, if there are similar types of organisms, give them the same genus name. Write your interpretation of each organism's physical appearance, and assign a number and the name next to a drawing of the organism. Prepare a dichotomous key for these organisms to identify them according to their appearances, using your drawings.