What To Know
- Creating a dichotomous key on Google Slides is a convenient and accessible option, making it perfect for students, researchers, and anyone interested in taxonomy.
- A dichotomous key is a hierarchical structure that presents a series of paired statements or questions.
- A dichotomous key is a type of taxonomic key that uses a series of binary choices to identify organisms.
Dichotomous keys are invaluable tools for identifying organisms, as they provide a systematic and efficient way to narrow down possibilities based on a series of binary choices. Creating a dichotomous key on Google Slides is a convenient and accessible option, making it perfect for students, researchers, and anyone interested in taxonomy.
What is a Dichotomous Key?
A dichotomous key is a hierarchical structure that presents a series of paired statements or questions. Each statement describes a different characteristic of the organism being identified. The user chooses the statement that best matches the organism, then follows the corresponding branch of the key. This process continues until the user reaches a terminal node, which provides the identification of the organism.
Creating a Dichotomous Key on Google Slides
1. Prepare Your Data
Before you start, gather all the necessary information about the organisms you want to identify. This includes their physical characteristics, behavior, habitat, and any other relevant data.
2. Create a New Google Slide
Open Google Slides and create a new presentation. Choose a slide size that is appropriate for your key.
3. Insert a Text Box
On the first slide, insert a text box by clicking “Insert” > “Text Box.” This will be the title of your key.
4. Add the First Statement
In the text box, type the first statement of your key. This statement should be a general characteristic that divides the organisms into two groups.
5. Create Branches
Below the first statement, create two new text boxes. These will be the branches of the key. One branch should correspond to a “yes” answer, while the other should correspond to a “no” answer.
6. Repeat Steps 4-5
Continue creating statements and branches until you have reached the terminal nodes. Each terminal node should provide the identification of one or more organisms.
7. Format and Style
Use consistent formatting and styling throughout your key. This will make it easier to read and follow. You can use different colors, fonts, and bullet points to highlight important information.
Tips for Creating Effective Dichotomous Keys
- Use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that might be unfamiliar to users.
- Make the statements mutually exclusive. Each statement should describe a different characteristic, and the two branches should not overlap.
- Test your key. Ask someone else to use your key to identify organisms. This will help you identify any errors or ambiguities.
- Keep it updated. As new information becomes available, update your key to reflect the latest findings.
Creating a Dichotomous Key for Plants
1. Start with a General Statement
Example: “Leaves present or absent?”
2. Create Branches
- “Leaves present”
- “Leaves absent”
3. Continue Dividing
- “Leaves simple or compound?”
- “Leaves with stipules or without stipules?”
- “Flowers present or absent?”
- “Flowers with petals or without petals?”
4. Reach Terminal Nodes
- “Leaves simple, without stipules, flowers present with petals: Rose”
- “Leaves compound, with stipules, flowers absent: Bean”
Creating a Dichotomous Key for Birds
1. Start with a General Statement
Example: “Beak size: small or large?”
2. Create Branches
- “Beak small”
- “Beak large”
3. Continue Dividing
- “Feet webbed or not webbed?”
- “Tail long or short?”
- “Coloration: bright or dull?”
4. Reach Terminal Nodes
- “Beak small, feet webbed, tail long, coloration bright: Mallard”
- “Beak large, feet not webbed, tail short, coloration dull: Sparrow”
Wrapping Up
Creating a dichotomous key on Google Slides is a straightforward and efficient way to organize and present taxonomic information. By following these steps, you can create clear and concise keys that will help users identify organisms accurately and quickly.
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a dichotomous key and a taxonomic key?
A: A dichotomous key is a type of taxonomic key that uses a series of binary choices to identify organisms. Taxonomic keys can also use other methods, such as multiple-choice questions or descriptions.
Q: How do I cite a dichotomous key?
A: To cite a dichotomous key, use the following format:
- Author(s). (Year). Title of the key. Publisher.
Q: Can I share my dichotomous key with others?
A: Yes, you can share your dichotomous key with others by sending them the link to the Google Slide presentation. You can also download the presentation as a PDF or PowerPoint file and share it with others.
