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How to Use a Key to Classify
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 Background: Many scientists rely on a "key" to help them classify the leaf or the plant which they observe. The key poses one question at a time. The answer to the question is paired with instructions to go another specific question until the scientist arrives at the plant name. Oregon State gives a good example of using a key to classify conifers of the Pacific Northwest. Of course, if you don't live in the Pacfic Northwest, their key may not be quite so helpful. If you work with students in grades K - 3 you may wish to use the simplified key created for this project.

Activity: Collect a leaf from one of the dominant trees in your area. After you have carefully observed your leaf click on the Arbor Day Foundation link for your area and see if you can use a key to classify the tree (You may want to use a known tree the first time).
Western United States Trees Key
Eastern & Central United States Trees Key

If you live outside the United States you'll need to find a Tree Classification for your area. Here are some pages that show common trees throughout North America:
E-Nature's Tree Search Page for these areas or for Canada and the British Isles...

British Columbia Coast
British Columbia - Alberta
Alberta -Saskatchewan - Manitoba
Northern Ontario Regions
Central Ontario Regions
Great Lakes Region
St. Lawrence River & Gulf Regions
Labrador to Hudson Lake Region
Nova Scotia Area
British Isles

For Mexico, Europe, Africa, Asia and South America - I don't yet have any great links. Let me know and I'll add them in. In the meantime you may need to buy a field guide book.

 

 

 

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