Chapter 3: Classification keys

By the end of this chapter you will be able to

• Explain that a classification key asks yes or no questions to name a living thing
• Follow an animal key step by step, and say which step gives a name
• Use a key for leaves to name four trees from their leaves
• Use a key for minibeasts to name animals found in a garden
• Write a simple yes or no question that separates two living things
• Explain why the features in a key must be checked in a set order

You should already know

• Grouping living things by their shared features (Year 4 Science, Chapter 2)
• Living things and their habitats, and naming plants and animals (Year 2 Science, Chapter 3)

Where this leads

• Habitats, changes in the environment and food chains (Year 4 Science, Chapter 4)
• Identifying living things in more detail (Year 5 Science)