Using Dichotomous Key to Compare Plants by their Structural Differences
Competency C1: Compare and describe agricultural plants based on properties, functions, and physiological needs.
Description
Demonstrate the use of a dichotomous key to identify plant species by traits and specific characteristics such as leaf, bark, bud and others. Show major categorical differences between gymnosperms and angiosperms. Review the seven taxonomic levels of classification, which are kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus and species.
Resources
- What is a Dichotomous Key? (Biology Dictionary)
- Common trees of Michigan or Fruit Tree online keys
- Self design own dichotomous key using devices or things around the home
- Youtube videos on various dichotomous keys
- Biodiversity Counts Curriculum Collections (American Museum of Natural History)
- The Different Types of Plants in the World Article (ZME Science)
- Dichotomous Key to ID Invasive Species (Alice Ferguson Foundation)
Teaching Methods
Brainstorming, Lecture Discussion, Paired or Small Group Discussion, Case Study, Field Trip, Resource People, Game and Simulations, Supervised Study