Classification and Dichotomous Keys Assessment

What is a dichotomous key?

• A tool for classifying organisms based on their physical traits

• A map for finding animal habitats

• A key that opens a scientist's laboratory

Is the right answer for classifying this organism chosen on this dichotomous key?

• Yes

• No

Select all of the options that ARE classification characteristics of this organism.

• Is covered in fur

• Is dangerous

• Has 4 legs

• Has paws with 5 digits

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-2

Which of the following is NOT a scientific kingdom used in classification?

• Animalia

• Fungi

• Plantae

• Organism

What types of animals are these?

• Vertebrates

• Invertebrates

A vertebrate can be defined as an animal who_________.

• ...has no spinal chord

• ...has no legs and no tail

• ...has a spinal chord

• ...has legs and a tail

Use this dichotomous key to classify rock D.

• Slate

• Granite

• Obsidian

• Conglomerate

Which of these categories would likely NOT appear on a dichotomous key?

• Has fur/does not have fur

• Has wings/has no wings

• Carnivore/herbivore/omnivore

• Is mean/is nice

If you were creating a dichotomous key for ocean animals, which question would separate dolphins from sharks?

• Is the animal a vertebrate?

• Is the animal a cranivore?

• Does the animal have fins?

• Does the animal breathe through gills?

Which of the following is the best definition of "classification"?

• The practice of grouping animals randomly and studying their characteristics

• The practice of grouping animals based on their characteristics

• The practice of studying animals in their natural habitats

• The practice of studying animals under a microscope