Classification simulation lab

purpose: to compare and contrast the various characteristics of each of the six kingdoms and to attempt to classify organisms into their correct kingdom based on a set of distinguishing characteristics.

materials: computer and internet access.

procedure:

1. click on the following link to open the virtual lab:


2. carefully read the instruction on the bar on the left hand side. it includes an introduction and step by step instructions on how to complete the virtual lab.

3. classify the first five organisms using the step by step process outlined in the virtual lab. once you decide what kingdom the organism belongs to you need to fill out the information on the data table before you drag the organism over and place it in the proper kingdom.

scientific name common name # of cells type of cells locomotion nutrition kingdom
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

4. repeat step 3 until you have classified 10 different organisms. you may have to reset the page more than once because sometimes an organism is repeated in the reset.

answer the questions.
1. what differentiates archaebacteria from eubacteria?

2. how are animals and plants different? how are they the same? be specific.

3. why are fungi more like animals than they are like plants?

4. if an organism is single-celled and photosynthetic; to which kingdom does it belong?