Animal Classification System

Literature based unit studies provide a memorable reference point from which to teach your students the basics of the Animal Kingdom's Classification System.  Each time you encounter an animal in a story, you make a card for it (or use our ready made cards below) and help your student classify it within an organizational system you have already created. 

For more information on Animal Classification Systems, see
Before Five in a Row-- Blueberries for Sal
Five in a Row Volume III -- The Salamander Room
Five in a Row Volume IV-- see page 2-12 and page 4-15

Classification Cards

Five in a Row CC

Ideas For Organizing Your Animal Classification System

Pockets
This is a simple way to organize for your younger students.
Animal Classification Pockets (feathers, fur, fins, scales, or skin); HSS Animal Classification Cards fit in these pockets.

A Notebook
Use dividers as appropriate and plastic sheets (or make your own pages with pockets or use a combination of both)
Notebook Page Created by Carrie Piper
Notebook Page to be used with Classification Cards

A 4x6 File Box
Again, use dividers as appropriate and file each card in the appropriate location.

A Tri-fold Project Board

Bulletin Board
If you have a school room, you can even make a spot on your wall with pockets for the classification system.

Teacher Pocket Chart

The Animal Kingdom is divided into two main groups:  vertebrates, and invertebrates.  Those two groups are broken down into sub-categories such as mammals, fish, birds, insects, etc.  Here are some pre-made dividers that may help you as you develop your system.

For the 4x6 File Box
Animal Classification Title Cards
Animal Classification Title Cards without pictures (cut your own pictures from magazines or let your student draw her own)
Animal Classification Title Cards -- simple (less sub-categories for your younger learner)

For the Notebook, Project Board, or Bulletin Board
Animal Classification Title Pages
Animal Classification Title Pages without pictures (cut your own pictures from magazines or let your student draw her own)
Animal Classification Title Pages-- simple (less sub-categories for your younger learner)

Helpful Web Links
http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/index.html
http://www.hhmi.org/coolscience/critters/index.html
http://www.forestryimages.org/
http://classroomclipart.com/

Animal Classification Pack from In the Hands of a Child