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The Art of Hiding

Topic
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Animal Behavior
  • Zoology
  • Evolution
  • Natural Selection
Resource Type
  • Activities
  • Phenomenal Images
Level
High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IB
Favorited By
5 Users
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Description

This activity explores an image of a moth with unusual markings on its wings, which serves as a phenomenon for learning about mimicry and adaptation.

Mimicry is an evolved resemblance between an organism (the mimic) and another entity (the model), which can be a nonliving object or an unrelated species. This image shows a moth with wing patterns that resemble flies feeding on bird droppings. This unappetizing appearance, combined with the moth’s unpleasant smell, keeps away predators that see only smelly bird droppings and hungry flies rather than a tasty moth.

The “Educator Materials” document includes background information and implementation suggestions for using the images as phenomena. The “Student Handout” includes the images and background information.  

Student Learning Targets
  • Examine images of phenomena, make observations, and ask questions.
  • Collaborate with peers on ideas, ask questions that require higher levels of reasoning, and develop deeper understanding of concepts.
  • Describe examples of mimicry and its evolutionary benefits.
Details
Estimated Time
Within one 50-minute class period.
Key Terms

adaptation, camouflage, mimic, mimicry, moth, predator avoidance

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Accessibility Level

The documents for this resource meet accessibility standards in accordance with the final rule for Section 508 of the National Rehabilitation Act.
Version History
Date Published 03.03.20
Date Updated 06.12.20
Curriculum Connections
NGSS (2013)

HS-LS4-4; SEP1

AP Biology (2019)

EVO-1.C, EVO-1.D, EVO-1.O; SP3

IB Biology (2016)

5.2

AP Environmental Science (2013)

II.C

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

3.2

Common Core (2010)

ELA.WHST.9-12.9

Vision and Change (2009)

CC1; DP1

Materials
Image (JPG) 898 KB
Educator Materials (PDF) 514 KB
Student Handout (PDF) 1 MB

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