Create a Cladogram of Shapes

A cladogram is a branching diagram that shows relationships between species. The images below show several examples of how cladograms for different groups could be organized:

cladogram example

Instructions:

1. Cut out the shapes below and group them according to their similarities.

2. Arrange them onto a cladogram which considers features that the shapes share.

3. Include descriptions for each of the main branches on your diagram.

shapes

download pdf google doc

Other Resources on Cladograms

Bear Species and DNA - activity from Learn.Genetics explores relationships between different types of bears

Fingerprint Classification - look at fingerprints and develop a way to classify them

Taxonomy Project - students create their own kingdoms, phyla..etc and design organisms

Analyze and Construct Cladograms  - very simple cladograms showing how animals are organized by derived characters