• A tool to identify species in a group.
• "Dichotomy" means dividing into two. So, the key splits your options in half at every step.
• Think of it as a "Choose Your Own Adventure" book, but for species

• It has numbered pairs of descriptions.
• Each pair contrasts two possible features of a species.
• One description should clearly fit, and the other should not.
• Depending on the choice, you'll be directed to another numbered pair or reach an identification.

💡 Example: Imagine having two fruits in your hand - an apple and an orange. The key might ask:

• "Does it have a rough skin?" If yes ➡️ It's an orange. If no ➡️ Go to the next question.
• "Is it round and red?" If yes ➡️ It's an apple.

• Designed for specific areas.
• Helps identify all species or groups in that area.

• Trees in your school or local forest, looking at leaves or bark.
• Water plants from the nearest pond.
• Birds that swing by the local bird-feeders.
• Tiny creatures (invertebrates) living on a specific plant.

🎨 Real-World Fun: Why not create a key for the candies in your snack drawer? "Is it chocolate-based? Does it have a nutty center?"