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Science Ecology and the environment

Classification and keys

Galapagos giant tortoise eating fruit
© Matthew Nalty

Introduction

Learning objectives

  • To know that organisms can be classified according to their physical characteristics.
  • To understand how keys can be used by scientists to identify species.
  • To appreciate that taxonomic classification is an important tool for scientists.

Students’ outcomes

  • To give examples, illustrating how organisms can be differentiated and grouped.
  • To explain how keys can be used to classify organisms. Students should discuss the different levels of the taxonomic chain.
  • To discuss the importance of taxonomic classification, with reference to scientific work.

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