Activity Overview
In many cases, organisms with different taxonomic ranks will retain some similarities despite their differences. In this worksheet, students are asked to research the classification of two organisms, either provided by you or selected themselves, and also to address any similarities. Depending on the level of complexity desired, students can research organisms from two different kingdoms or stay within the kingdom of their choice. This is a great way for students to take a look at how close or distant two organisms are, even if they look completely different!
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy the worksheet into your teacher account. While you can choose to assign this to students on Storyboard That, the worksheet is made to be printed out! Feel free to edit any of it as desired to ask additional questions or provide different instructions. Once you've finished, save and print!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the columns in the worksheet, take notes on two different organisms.
- After you have filled in all of the information, identify differences and similarities between the two.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
In many cases, organisms with different taxonomic ranks will retain some similarities despite their differences. In this worksheet, students are asked to research the classification of two organisms, either provided by you or selected themselves, and also to address any similarities. Depending on the level of complexity desired, students can research organisms from two different kingdoms or stay within the kingdom of their choice. This is a great way for students to take a look at how close or distant two organisms are, even if they look completely different!
Clicking "Use This Assignment" will copy the worksheet into your teacher account. While you can choose to assign this to students on Storyboard That, the worksheet is made to be printed out! Feel free to edit any of it as desired to ask additional questions or provide different instructions. Once you've finished, save and print!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the columns in the worksheet, take notes on two different organisms.
- After you have filled in all of the information, identify differences and similarities between the two.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Animal Classification & Taxonomy Worksheet
Create a classroom taxonomy wall display
Engage students visually by building a taxonomy wall in your classroom. Print or draw images of various animals and organize them into categories (kingdom, phylum, class, etc.) on a bulletin board. As students learn, let them help update the display, making taxonomy interactive and memorable!
Invite students to choose and research their own organisms
Empower student choice by allowing each student to select an organism of personal interest. Guide them in researching its classification and encourage sharing fun facts with the class. This increases motivation and deepens learning about animal taxonomy.
Facilitate small group discussions on classification similarities
Promote collaboration by grouping students to compare their findings. Have each group discuss and list similarities and differences between the organisms they researched. Sharing helps reinforce classification concepts and builds communication skills.
Use sorting games to reinforce classification skills
Make learning active with hands-on sorting activities. Provide cards with animal names or pictures and challenge students to sort them into taxonomic groups. This interactive approach strengthens understanding of classification levels.
Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Classification & Taxonomy Worksheet
What is animal classification and why is it important for students to learn?
Animal classification is the process of organizing animals into groups based on shared characteristics. It helps students understand biological diversity, relationships between species, and the fundamentals of taxonomy, making science concepts more accessible and engaging.
How can I use an animal classification worksheet in my classroom?
You can incorporate an animal classification worksheet by having students research and compare two organisms. This activity encourages critical thinking, research skills, and understanding of taxonomy. Worksheets can be printed or assigned digitally for flexible use.
What are some good examples of organisms to compare in a taxonomy worksheet for middle school?
Great examples include comparing a lion and a house cat (same family, different species), or a frog and a butterfly (different classes). Choose organisms with both similarities and differences to highlight key taxonomic concepts.
What are the key differences between animal classification and taxonomy?
Animal classification refers to grouping animals by traits, while taxonomy is the scientific discipline of naming, defining, and organizing living things based on evolutionary relationships. Taxonomy provides the structure for classification.
What tips help students identify similarities and differences between two organisms?
Encourage students to focus on characteristics like body structure, habitat, diet, and taxonomy rank. Using visual aids and research tools helps them spot both obvious and subtle similarities or differences between organisms.
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