Evolution: Examining Fossil and DNA Evidence
In Activity 1, students investigate how fossil whales provide a line of evidence in support of the theory of evolution. Students then apply the theory of natural selection to whale evolution, using anatomical adaptations to infer the habitats, lifestyles, and evolutionary relationships of extinct species. In Activity 2, students examine classification from an evolutionary perspective. They compare DNA sequences from a number of vertebrates and create an evolution≠ary tree.
Details at a Glance
- 2-3 Days | 2-3 ~50 minute class periods
- 2 Activities
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 12 groups of 2 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
- Developed in partnership with SEPUP
Scientific Concepts
Disciplinary Core Ideas
•MS-LS4.A Evidence of Common Ancestry and Diversity
•MS-ES1.C The History of Planet Earth
Science and Engineering Practices
•Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
•Analyzing and Interpreting Data
•Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Crosscutting Concepts
•Patterns
•Connections to Nature of Science
Key Vocabulary: DNA, extinct, natural selection, evolution, law of superposition
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Comprehensive Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis items
- Materials necessary for the investigation (beyond common classroom items)
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 1 Teacher’s Guide
- 28 Student Worksheets and Guides
- 12 Sets of five Skeleton Cards
- 12 Whale Fossil Charts
- 12 Mysticetes Skeleton Cards
- 12 Sets of five DNA Cards
- 3 Transparencies
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