KEY BUILDING

 

What is a key?

You will find a good explanation of keys and key exercises on the web at: http://forestry.msu.edu/uptreeid/KeyB/B1.htm

 

How can I build a key?

Download the What-If Builder, a small piece of software that helps you keep track of yes/no decisions. Download a copy for your computer at http://csf.concord.org/esf/Software.cfm
Download a copy of the What-If Builder for your Palm from Kidsolve
Download the User's Guide at http://csf.concord.org/esf/Software.cfm

 

Procedure
1. After you have gathered information about, say, trees, animals, insects etc., make a list of "key' characteristics or place samples on a table (e.g. leaves, photos of insects)

2. Then look at your data and consider what would divide your population (of insects, for example) into two or three groups, without any left over. These are your first two choices. Write them in the What If Builder.

Example: Insects with wings

Insects with one pair of wings

Insects with two pairs of wings

Insects with no wings or just vestiges

 

3. Then divide into two or three groups, each studying one of the divisions, and divide them further into two (or three or four). The units do not have to be the same size, just completely divided. Write these divisions as questions in the What if Builder. (Does it have 2 wings? 4 wings?)

4. Continue the process until all of your specimens are sorted.

5. Print out the What-if branches, or join them together.

6. (Optional) Compare your key with those of professionals, such as the authors of Audubon guides. (See enature.com)

 

You will need to keep adjusting your key, but ultimately you will have something of value for your entire school.

Younger students might like to practice with a collection of leaves or even more simple objects.

 

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