Classify (Science)

Key Stage 1

Meaning

To classify is to put objects into groups with similar properties.

Singular Noun: Classification

Plural Noun: Classifications

Verb: Classify

About Classification

When we put things in groups we are classifying them.

We put things in groups because it helps us organise the world.

Examples

A builder classifies their bricks by colour and puts them into piles.	A child classified their blocks by shape and colour and arranged them in rows and columns.	A student classified animals by the sounds they made.

Key Stage 2

Meaning

To classify is to put objects, materials and living things into groups with similar features or properties.

About Classification

Classification helps us organise the world into meaningful groups. If I wanted to make a sword I might use Iron, but if I didn't have any Iron I couldn't make a sword out of brick, so I would look for another material that is classified as a 'metal' because it has similar properties to Iron.

Classifying things helps us identify them. If I'm not sure what something is, I can look at its features or properties to classify it.

Examples

This creature has wings, fur, does not lay eggs, feeds its young with milk.

Which of these is the correct classification of a bat?

Birds have feathers and lay eggs.	Amphibians can survive under water and on land and lay soft eggs.
Reptiles has dry scales and lay eggs.	Mammals have fur and feed their young with milk.