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The Tool-Making Animal

Topic

  • Evolution
  • Paleobiology
  • Human Evolution

Resource Type

  • Videos
  • Scientists at Work

Level

High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege

Duration

00:05:41
Saved By
5 Users
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Description

This video describes how stone tools reveal a critical transition in the lives of our early human ancestors.

Though tool use is not unique to humans, the sophistication of our tools and our degree of reliance upon them is unique and sets us apart from other species. So, when did human tool-making begin, and why? And what does it tell us about the evolution of our ancestors? Paleoanthropologist Tim White reveals the answers in this short video, which also features evolutionary biologist Sean Carroll.

An audio descriptive version of the film is available via our media player.

Key Terms

anthropology, early human, hominid, paleontology, scientific methodology, scientific process

Terms of Use

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

Accessibility Level (WCAG compliance)

Video files meet criteria.

Version History

Date Published 03.25.15

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS4.C

AP Biology (2019)

EVO-1

IB Biology (2016)

5.1

AP Environmental Science (2020)

Topic(s): 2.6

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

8.2

Vision and Change (2009)

CC1

Materials

Download HD (M4V) 207 MB
Download HD (WMV) 168 MB
Download SD (M4V) 45 MB
Download SD (WMV) 43 MB
Download Transcript (PDF) 123 KB

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