Which of the following animals is classified as a vertebrate?

The classification of animals into vertebrates and invertebrates is based on the presence of a backbone or spinal column. Vertebrates are animals that possess a backbone made of vertebrae, which are part of an internal skeletal system. This group includes animals such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

A hummingbird is indeed classified as a vertebrate because it is a bird, and birds are part of the vertebrate category. They have a well-defined skeletal structure that includes a spine. This categorization is significant in early childhood education as it helps young learners understand basic biological classifications and the diversity of life forms.

The other options provided are invertebrates: a butterfly (while it has wings and can fly, it does not have a backbone), a worm (lacking a backbone and falls under invertebrates), and a jellyfish (which is a simple organism with a gelatinous body and no backbone). Understanding these classifications not only introduces children to animal biology but also fosters critical thinking as they learn about the characteristics that differentiate various animal groups.