======Class Member Classification======


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**Alternative titles:** Creating a Dichotomous Key for People
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  -Gather the entire class as participants.  
  -Brainstorm and list observable characteristics that can be used to distinguish between class members (e.g., hair color, eye color, height, dimples, ear lobes).  
  -Discuss which characteristics would make strong, clear criteria for classification.  
  -Choose one distinguishing characteristic as the first criterion and divide the class into two groups based on that trait.  
  -For one of the groups, choose another characteristic to further divide the group into two smaller subgroups.  
  -Repeat the process for the other group, continuing until each student can be individually identified.  
  -Record the traits used at each step.  
  -Construct a classification key (like a dichotomous key) that shows the steps used to identify each student.  
  -Consider using less obvious characteristics such as:  
     *Ability to roll tongue  
     *Ear lobes attached or free  
     *Length of second toe compared to big toe  
     *Dimples in cheeks  
     *Dimple in chin  
     *Widow’s peak hairline  
  -Use these traits to progressively organize the class into smaller and smaller groups (two, four, eight, and so on).



====Links==== 
  * None

====Variations====
  *Repeat the activity using non-physical traits such as favorite color, handedness, or hobbies.  
  *Have students draw a tree diagram or dichotomous key to represent the classification visually.  
  *Combine data from multiple classes to compare population traits.  
  *Use digital tools to construct an interactive classification chart.



====Safety Precautions====
  *Respect privacy - students may opt out of sharing any characteristic they’re uncomfortable with.  
  *Avoid using sensitive or personal traits (e.g., weight, skin color).  
  *Ensure that all comments remain kind and scientific in nature.




====Questions to Consider====
  *What makes a good characteristic for classification? (One that has clear, observable differences.)  
  *Why do scientists classify organisms? (To organize diversity and make identification easier.)  
  *How is this classroom activity similar to how biologists classify species? (Both use observable traits and branching keys to distinguish individuals.)  
  *What challenges did you face when deciding which traits to use?  
  *How could technology or genetic data make classification more accurate?