Plant Classification Lab

Purpose To successfully identify six plants using the classification system. To utilize the classification system, parts of the plant and dichotomous key in identifying plants.

Materials Six different plants Magnifying lens Sunset Western Garden Book Internet Access Class Notes Lab Sheets Pen/Pencil

Procedure (Steps): General: Neatly lay out all six plants (leaves) for identification. Label each plant 1-6. Use the parts of the plant to make notations of each plant. Type of leaf arrangement, does it have flowers, margins on leaf, etc. Refer to notes for assistance. Use the Sunset Western Garden Book and Internet for help in classification. Finally, identify each plant by listing the Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Specie for each plant.

Observations When you are classifying each plant, it is important that you separate each plant and list each of the plants characteristics that lead you to identify its order, class, genus and specie. All observations should be recorded for each plant.

Conclusion Summary based on observations List the plants classified and reflect on your methods of classifying plants. What have you learned about classifying plants? What will you try next time you classify plants?