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Module 4 Intro

1. Module 4 Intro

1.25. Page 5

Lesson 4

Module 4—Mechanisms of Population Change

Reflect and Connect

 

A child is dressed up as Spiderman in this photo.

© Mati Dovner/shutterstock

What conditions would need to be present for Peter Parker to become a new species as Spiderman? Outline a scenario in a storytelling format (e.g., as a cartoon, a creative writing piece, a video, or an audio) that would describe how the “spiderman” species could evolve from the current population of humans. Be creative, but don’t get carried away—this is designed to be a short piece.

 

OR

 

Create your own scenario outlining the evolution of a new species by using a storytelling format of your choice.

 

You will be completing this activity in your Module 4: Lesson 4 Assignment.

 

The following rubric will determine your mark for this exercise.


 

Category

4

3

2

1

Requirements
The scenario presented explains how a new species is formed.
Genetic variation/diversity, reproductive isolation, barriers, and speciation are presented in context.

This is presented in a storytelling format.

The requirements are met and exceeded.

All requirements are met.

One requirement was not completely met.

More than one requirement was not completely met.

Content

The topic is covered in-depth with details and descriptions. The student’s subject knowledge is excellent.

Essential knowledge about the topic is included. The student’s subject knowledge appears to be good.

Essential knowledge is included about the topic, but there are one or two factual errors.

The content is minimal, or there are several factual errors.
Presentation        

 

Self-Check

 

SC 6. As a final check of what you have learned in this lesson, test yourself with the following questions.

 

Reflect on the Big Picture

 

Module Project

 

Consider how to bring the concept of “barrier” into your game.

 

Maybe your game players will diverge into a new species when they land on the “barrier” square. Will your play characters debate the merits of one model over the other, or even act out the punctuated equilibrium theory? There are so many possibilities—what will you do? These are just some ideas you may use, or not use, to help finish your game, play, or podcast.

 

Complete the Module Project.

  1. You now have the information to answer the final question for this project. Jot down important information that answers the last question: What conditions are necessary for speciation?

  2. Brainstorm ways to include this information into your project in a creative way.

  3. Retrieve your project materials from your course folder.

  4. Complete the project.

  5. Have you referred to the marking rubric to self-assess your project? If not, do so now.

  6. Submit the finished project to your teacher as your module assessment. Share your projects with your classmates.
Going Beyond

 

The fossil record indicates that humans have changed over time. The documentary titled “Becoming Human” explores the evidence for human evolution, anatomical differences between modern-day humans and their ancestors, human lineages, and cultural evolution. You will travel with paleontologists across continents, visit dig sites, and look at ancient fossils of early humans.

 

As you view the documentary, pay attention to the changes in structure and culture that make people what they are today. To access this video, type in the keywords “becoming human documentary.”

 

This website has lots of information that is interesting and worthwhile to view.

 

Self-Check

 

Becoming Human

 

Module 4: Lesson 4 Assignment

 

Remember to submit the Assignment answers to your teacher as part of your Module 4: Lesson 4 Assignment.