Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: Explain that classification systems aim to reflect evolutionary relationships.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe why scientists classify living organisms.
  • Explain how modern classification reflects evolutionary relationships.
  • Identify the major taxonomic ranks and their significance.
  • Interpret a simple phylogenetic tree to infer common ancestry.
  • Evaluate DNA and fossil evidence used in modern classification.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • Printed handout of the taxonomic hierarchy
  • Phylogenetic tree diagram (cladogram) cards
  • Student worksheets
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Internet access for short video clip
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: “If you found a new animal, how would you decide where it belongs?” Connect this to students’ prior knowledge of earlier classification methods and state that by the end of the lesson they will be able to explain how modern systems mirror evolutionary history.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – short quiz on historical classification facts.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – contrast early trait‑based systems with modern phylogenetic approach.
  3. Group activity (15’) – students place organism cards on a cladogram to illustrate shared ancestry.
  4. Guided walkthrough (10’) – examine the taxonomic hierarchy table and discuss synapomorphies.
  5. Video clip (5’) – animation of a phylogenetic tree and branch‑length meaning.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – exit ticket: write one way classification aids scientific prediction.
  7. Recap & homework (5’) – summarise key points; assign reading on DNA evidence in classification.
Conclusion:
Briefly revisit the success criteria, highlighting how the activities demonstrated evolutionary relationships. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding, and remind students to complete the reading on molecular evidence for the next lesson’s discussion.