Year 6 · Science

Use characteristics and classification keys

7 checked activities 4 video matches

How do classification keys identify living things?

A classification key asks a sequence of questions about observable characteristics. Each answer narrows the possibilities until one organism or group remains. A useful key uses features that can be checked consistently, such as whether an animal has a backbone, feathers or six legs.

Use a key step by step

observe the organism carefully before choosing an answer
follow only the branch that matches the evidence
check the final identification against all listed characteristics

Keep practising: Use the Year 6 Science checklist

Year 6 learners practise classifying living things using classification keys.

The activities include Discover Classification, Identify Processes in Classification, Know About Classifying Animals and Plants, and related practice. The checked support below includes video, interactive, lesson, teaching. Open a resource in its provider's website and choose the format that best helps the learner explain the idea independently.

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Activities covered

Discover Classification
Identify Processes in Classification
Know About Classifying Animals and Plants
Look at Classifying Organisms
Look into the Classification of Life
Study Classification
Use Keys to Aid Classification

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