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Week 27 Science: Potato Chip Classification (Gr. 6-8)

Lesson adapted with permission from OCFN http://www.ofcn.org/ - Original lesson Claudia Todd-Sonnichsen, Ponca City School District, Ponca City, OK

Potato Chip Classification

OVERVIEW: The purpose of this activity is twofold. It introduces the structure and function of a dichotomous key preparatory to asking students to identify plant and animal specimens. It also reinforces the idea that there are many "right" answers in science. OBJECTIVE(s): Students will be able to:

1. Classify "specimens" (in this case, potato chips) according to observable characteristics. 2. Prepare a "key" showing their classification system. 3. Use their key to identify a specimen. 4. Recognize the validity of classmates' classification systems.

MATERIALS/RESOURCES:

1. Eight bags of potato chips selected for differences in observable characteristics (i.e. color, texture, brand name, flavoring, etc.)

2. Representative samples of each type of chip in labeled plastic bags. (Quantity determined by number of student groups.)

3. Paper and pencils for student recording. ACTIVITIES AND PROCEDURES:

1. Display bags of potato chips and discuss their similarities and differences. 2. Ask volunteer to divide chips into two groups using an observable characteristic (i.e.

flavored/not flavored). 3. Record results of first division. 4. Continue to divide groups of chips, using a different characteristic each time, until only one

bag of chips remains in each group. Continue recording results. 5. Using the class key, identify "unknown" chips. 6. Divide students into groups, or ask individual students to work independently.

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Homeschool Learning Network Name ___________________________ Date _____________________

© 2002 The Homeschool Learning Network, all rights reserved. The Homeschool Learning Network permits teachers and parents to reproduce this page for non-profit and educational purposes only. http://www.homeschoollearning.com

Week 27 Science: Potato Chip Classification (Gr. 6-8)

7. Provide each group or student with a sample set of chips, this time out of the bag. 8. Ask each group or student to devise and test a dichotomous key that is different from the

class key in as much detail as possible. 9. Record and share results. 10. Eat the chips!

EXTENSIONS:

1. Repeat activity with other objects such as candy, shoes, etc. 2. Introduce and use plant and animal keys.

SAMPLE KEY: Flavored

BBQ Broken Burned Etc. Ridged Not ridged

Not Flavored

Salted Unsalted Gourmet Baked