Skeletal and Embryological Evidence for Evolutionary Relationships
Students first examine forelimb skeletons of six species to identify bones with homologous structures and functions. Although the fully formed limbs appear different on the outside, students are able to identify similarities at the skeletal level. Students then examine embryological development of limbs and notice many similarities between different species not obvious in the mature animals. Finally. students examine the development of whole embryos of different species to infer evolutionary relationships.
Details at a Glance
- 1-2 Days | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 8 groups of 4 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Developed in partnership with SEPUP
Scientific Concepts
Performance Expectations
• MS-LS4-3
• Applying MS-LS4-2
Disciplinary Core Ideas
• MS-LS4.A Evidence of Common Ancestry and Diversity
Science and Engineering Practices
• Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Crosscutting Concepts
• Patterns
• Structure and Function
KEY VOCABULARY: embryo, evolutionary relationship, pattern
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.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 8 sets of 12 Embryonic Limb Cards
- 8 sets of 20 Whole Embryo Cards
- 8 sets of colored pencils
- 32 Student Guides
- 1 Teacher's Guide