Instructions for "Monster key"
This activity can be used with Lesson 3: Dichotomous Keys.
In this activity, students will practice making and using a dichotomous key as a class using the class "monster" template. Then they will be able to make their own dichotomous key for the same "monster" template in teams and then test it out on each other to see if it works.
Materials Required
Part A: Creating a Dichotomous Key as a Class
The teacher will get the students to "name" all of the monsters."
Part B: Creating Individual Dichotomous Keys for the Monsters
In this activity, students will practice making and using a dichotomous key as a class using the class "monster" template. Then they will be able to make their own dichotomous key for the same "monster" template in teams and then test it out on each other to see if it works.
Materials Required
- The teacher should have a class set of "monsters" that are coloured and already cut out, ready to be placed on each students' back with tape.
- The teacher should have enough copies of the blank "monster" template for each student to make their dichotomous key for it.
Part A: Creating a Dichotomous Key as a Class
The teacher will get the students to "name" all of the monsters."
- Students will then determine what characteristic would easily split the "monsters" into two groups. Examples could be: number of eyes, open or closed mouths, roundish versus squarish shape, etc.
- Students will then create a series of yes or no questions that will segregate the "monsters" into further categories until there is only one monster left in each group.
- Once complete, one "monster" will be taped to a student's back by the teacher. While taping "monsters" to student's back, ensure that they do not know which one is going on their back. Ensure that students know that they should not be telling their friends which "monster" they are, otherwise this will ruin the game
- The student will then have to go around asking their peers the questions from the dichotomous key in sequence, in order that they be able to figure out what type of "monster" they have on their back.
Part B: Creating Individual Dichotomous Keys for the Monsters
- Students will work in pairs to create their own dichotomous key for the "monster" template. Alternatively, they can decide to use other items for their dichotomous key as long as they have accompanying pictures to help the teacher understand their key. Alternatives can include different kinds of fruit, lab supplies, etc.
- Students will test to see if their key works first on their partner, and then on another student in the class.
- Students will hand in their dichotomous key as an exit slip in order for the teacher to see the work they have created.
Exemplar of "Monster Key"
Examples of Names that Could be Chosen and that will be used for this Example:
Top Row Monster Names (From Left to Right)
The Frog Prince Teddy Bear Spaghetti Monster
Bottom Row Monster Names (From Left to Right)
Kung Fu Prancer Biscuit Aqua Man
To see examples of possible dichotomous keys for the monsters, download the file below.
Top Row Monster Names (From Left to Right)
The Frog Prince Teddy Bear Spaghetti Monster
Bottom Row Monster Names (From Left to Right)
Kung Fu Prancer Biscuit Aqua Man
To see examples of possible dichotomous keys for the monsters, download the file below.
monster_dichotomous_key.docx | |
File Size: | 14 kb |
File Type: | docx |