Lizard Evolution Virtual Lab

Launch Interactive

Topic

Resource Type

Level

High School — General High School — AP/IB College

Used In

2 BioInteractive Playlists

Favorited By

54 Users

Description

This interactive, modular lab explores the evolution of the anole lizards in the Caribbean through data collection and analysis.

The Caribbean is home to about 150 species of anole lizards. In this lab, students investigate how so many species of anoles evolved. The lab includes four modules that cover different concepts in evolutionary biology, including adaptation, convergent evolution, phylogenetic analysis, reproductive isolation, and speciation. In each module, students engage in key science practices, including taking measurements to collect data, constructing and interpreting graphs, and performing statistical analyses.

The lab contains an interactive lab space, an informational notebook, and embedded quiz questions. It also includes supplementary resources, such as an “Educators” tab with key concepts, learning objectives for each module, and detailed suggestions for incorporating the lab in class.

The accompanying worksheet provides structure and guidance as students perform the tutorials, experiments, and quizzes in the lab.

This lab is also available as an iOS app.

Student Learning Targets

Collect and analyze data to quantify phenotypic diversity among populations.
Describe how DNA sequence analysis can provide information about evolutionary relationships among species.
Explain how similarities or differences in traits can evolve as adaptations to similar or different environmental conditions.
Explain the biological definition of a species and how new species can arise through reproductive isolation.
Perform statistical calculations, including calculations for the mean, standard deviation, standard error of the mean (SEM), and the 95% confidence interval.

Details

Estimated Time

One to several 50-minute class periods, depending on which sections are used.

Key Terms

adaptation, convergent evolution, dewlap, ecomorph, evolutionary tree, graph, niche, reproductive isolation, species, statistics

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

Version History

Date Published 06.20.14

Curriculum Connections

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS2-2, HS-LS3-3, HS-LS4-1, HS-LS4-2, HS-LS4-3, HS-LS4-4; SEP2, SEP4, SEP6

AP Biology (2015)

1.A.1, 1.A.2, 1.A.4, 1.B.2, 1.C.1, 1.C.2; SP1, SP5, SP6

IB Biology (2016)

5.1, 5.2, 5.4, C.1

AP Environmental Science (2013)

II.A, II.C

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

2.1, 3.2

Common Core (2010)

ELA.RST.9–12.7, ELA.RST.9–12.9, ELA.WHST.9–12.1
Math.S-ID.3; MP2, MP6

Vision and Change (2009)

CC1, CC5; DP1, DP3

Educator Tips

Hear how educators are using BioInteractive content in their teaching.

Educator in front of an image of a scientist looking at a lizard on a branch.

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1-Minute Tips

Lizard Evolution Virtual Lab

Mark Eberhard describes how he uses the Lizard Evolution Virtual Lab to reinforce key concepts in ecology, genetics, and evolution. His AP® Biology students use the lab to make cross-curricular connections and incorporate math skills into their biology coursework.

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