Notes: Dichotomous Keys (pg 4)

Notes: Dichotomous Keys

• Tool for figuring out the identity of something

Dichotomous Keys

• Tool for figuring out the identity of something

• Dichotomous = divided into 2 parts

Using a key

• At each step, you are given 2 choices• Each alternative leads to 2 more choices,

until the item is identified

Example (write this down)1. a. wings covered …………………..go to step 2

b. wings not covered ……………….go to step 32. a. body is round ………..................ladybug

b. body is elongated……….............grasshopper3. a. wings point outward ………........dragonfly

b. wings point backward…………...housefly

Output (pg 5)Construct a dichotomous key for the

following objects. Begin your key with:1. a. Object is red……………..go to 2

b. Object is not red…………go to 3

1. A. Object is red……………..go to 2b. Object is not red…………go to 3

2. a. Has a green stem………Strawberryb. Has a brown stem……….Apple

3. a. Object is round.…………Orangeb. Object is not round….….Banana