Classifying Animals Printable Activity

Are your students working on identifying different types of animals? This sorting activity encourages students to distinguish between

• Mammals
• Birds
• Reptiles
• Amphibians

Students are presented with high-quality photographs to analyze physical features (such as fur, feathers, or scales). They can draw on their understanding of animal group characteristics, such as where it lives or if it is warm or cold-blooded. These indicators will help students properly identify and sort the 24 animals.

To play, cut apart the cards and headers. Place the heading cards on the table and provide each student with a recording sheet. Students work to sort the cards according to the type of animal shown. Responses can be recorded on their answer sheet.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your science lessons. 

In addition to individual student work time, use this sorting activity to enhance learning through science centers or whole class lessons.

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

Help students who need help understanding the concepts by limiting the number of cards or heading cards. Students can focus on sorting 2 or 3 types of animals rather than all four.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

If there are students who need an additional challenge, encourage them to list the unique characteristics of each animal.

🏃 Relay Race

Divide students into two team lines and show a flashcard to the students at the front of each line. The student that correctly identifies the type of animal first wins the flashcard. The team with the most flashcards at the end of the game wins!

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download. 

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Sustainability Tip: Print a few recording sheets on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a whiteboard marker, then erase and reuse them.  

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

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Animal Classification Posters

Display information about birds, mammals, amphibians, fish, and reptiles with this poster pack.

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Herbivores, Carnivores, and Omnivores – Sorting Activity

Determine if animals are omnivores, carnivores, or herbivores based on their diet with this sorting activity.