Did you know a new species of dolphin, the Burrunan dolphin, was discovered in Victoria in 2011? But wait; with over 96 different species of dolphins, whales and porpoises found around the globe, how DO you discover a new species of dolphin?? In our captivating Classification program, students follow in the footsteps of Dr Kate to become dolphin researchers, collecting taxonomical data to identify and classify different dolphin species! In this program students explore how and why scientists classify different organisms with a focus on marine mammals, the use of dichotomous keys, and the evolutionary traits of dolphins and whales. In the unique hands-on practical activity, students will take measurements of real dolphin skulls, and demonstrate their knowledge by classifying which species of dolphin the skull belongs to: the Burrunan dolphin or the common bottlenose dolphin!

This program provides assessment opportunities for students, with all assessment data provided to teachers upon completion of the practical activity.

*This program is suited for Level 5-6, Level 7-8, Level 9-10

*This program is suitable for delivery as :

Classroom incursion
Online webinar

Through participation in this program, students will:
Define ‘classification’, identify the structural features and adaptations of organisms, and how and why taxonomists need to classify living things.
Identify and use dichotomous keys, and demonstrate how dichotomous keys are used in the classification of living organisms.
Develop scientific understanding, and how scientific knowledge and questioning can guide research.
Use, interpret and analyse data to draw conclusions within a biological context.
Using evidence, communicate and share ideas and findings using scientific language.

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MMF’s Classification program is a classroom incursion delivered as an interactive lecture-style presentation with hands-on practical activity. Following an approx. 30-minute introductory presentation, students will be tasked with completing a practical activity where they will collect data on dolphin skulls using scale images and real artefacts. Students will work collaboratively to complete the practical activity, and once completed a closing consolidation will allow students to share findings and demonstrate knowledge.

All incursion materials and resources will be provided by MMF. A practical assessment activity is included in this program, and can be completed during the incursion session, or as a follow-up activity.

This incursion can be delivered in a classroom or presentation. MMF requires an interactive SmartBoard or project/screen to deliver this incursion.

MMF can tailor program content to meet your curriculum learning needs, so please speak with an MMF Educator if you require specific content development.

For further information, please see the MMF Policies page.