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Human Origins

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Photo comparing types of teeth from the activity

Topic

  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Skin & Musculoskeletal System
  • Evolution
  • Paleobiology
  • Human Evolution

Resource Type

  • Interactive Media
  • Click & Learn

Level

High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege
Saved By
40 Users
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Description

This interactive module allows students to examine fossils of early humans and compare them to modern primates.

DNA and fossil evidence has revealed that six million to seven million years ago, the human lineage split from the one that eventually gave rise to modern chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and bonobos (Pan paniscus). Modern humans have evolved to have large brains and move around on two legs; chimpanzees and bonobos have smaller brains, walk on all fours, and are excellent climbers. To determine when these differences in traits emerged, scientists examine fossils and artifacts from prehistoric hominins, our early human ancestors.

In this Click & Learn, students explore the fossilized skeletons, footprints, and/or stone tools of four different hominids: Homo erectus, Homo habilis, Australopithecus afarensis, and Ardipithecus ramidus. Students also compare the physical features of these hominins with those of modern humans and chimpanzees.

Student Learning Targets

Compare anatomical features of primate skeletons and footprints to identify differences and similarities.

Estimated Time

One to two 50-minute class periods.

Key Terms

Africa, anatomy, Ardi, bipedalism, brain, Homo sapiens, Great Transitions, Laetoli, Lucy, skull, trace fossil

Terms of Use

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

Version History

Date Published 08.08.18
Date Updated 09.03.21

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS4.A, HS-LS4.C

AP Biology (2019)

EVO-1.E, EVO-1.N, EVO-1.O, EVO-3.E, EVO-3.G

IB Biology (2016)

5.1, 5.2

AP Environmental Science (2020)

Topic(s): 2.6, 2.7
Learning Objectives & Practices: ERT-2.H, SP5

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

8.1

Vision and Change (2009)

CC1

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Chinese fossil sheds light on mysterious Neanderthal kin

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