Harry Potter and the Dichotomous Keys
Today we did the work of real scientists. We classified specimens based on a dichotomous key. As scientists, we also need to verify our findings. Just remember, the natural flavors were things like vanilla,; it was the artificial flavors that were most bothersome. Kudos to the seventh grade for being tough and giving their all in the name of science.
In classifying both living and nonliving things, scientists have tried to provide an order to life so that we can better understand the world in which we live. All living things are organized (classified) according to genetic relationships. Currently the classification system contains seven levels.
Shared patterns and physical characteristics among organisms can be organized and denoted in a classification tool called a dichotomous key. The key – used to identify organisms – is based on the premise an organism either possess an observable physical characteristic or does not possess the characteristic.
For example, when attempting to identify a flowering plant with a key, you might see:
1A Petals red go to 4
1B Petals orange go to 5
Once a characteristic is recognized in the key, a scientist follows the other physical characteristics until the characteristic has been isolated and identified on the key. New organisms are not found on an existing key; therefore, the key must be adapted in order to accommodate the new organisms.
