This human evolution packet provides an extensive guide for students to learn about the evolution of bipedalism in early hominid ancestors, specifically Australopithecus Afarensis, from several different perspectives. The entire curriculum can be presented to students within a time period of one or two weeks, or it can be used to supplement current teachings about evolution. One of the most common questions hear from students is, “how do we know evolution is true?” Many students have difficulty understanding that homo sapiens descended from primitive hominids who once inhabited lush forest in Eastern Kenya. This curriculum brings together our current knowledge of human evolution, and places it into a context where students can see how and why we transitioned from aboral life to living permanently as bipedal individuals. Students will explore the anatomical changes that occurred over time to facilitate upright walking and develop an understanding of how humans developed the ability to walk on two feet while expending less energy. By exploring Newton's laws of motion and mechanics, students will grasp the concept of the emergence of bipedal locomotion.
The activity begins with an introduction to the general concept of bipedalism and six theories that explain the environmental pressures that led to its emergence. Students will identify homologous structures such as the pelvis, foramen magnum, feet, and spine, and compare them across modern humans, chimpanzees, and our ancestor Australopithecus Afarensis. This information will provide students with an understanding of the role each line of evidence plays in relation to common ancestry and the biological evolution of bipedalism.
Furthermore, the packet includes a Google Slides presentation with videos, questions, and information about the evolution of bipedalism and intelligence. As humans became bipedal, they were able to access higher calorie food, and tool use became more sophisticated, which led to the emergence of human intelligence. Students will explore the connection between bipedalism and the emergence of human intelligence, making bipedalism one of the most significant hallmarks of our evolutionary journey.
In addition, students will compare the male and female Homo sapien pelvis as well as the male and female chimpanzee pelvis. This comparison will provide students with a deeper understanding of the biological differences between males and females within the species and how these differences relate to bipedal locomotion. The exploration of sexual dimorphism in hominids highlights its importance in human evolution and how it has influenced our anatomy and physiology.
Overall, this packet offers an engaging and informative educational resource for students interested in anthropology, biology, and evolutionary science. Students will gain a deeper understanding of human evolution by examining the anatomical changes and environmental pressures that led to the development of bipedalism. The comparative anatomy of the male and female Homo sapien and chimpanzee pelvis will allow students to appreciate sexual dimorphism and its role in human evolution. This packet aligns with the NGSS Science Standards by providing students with an in-depth exploration of evolutionary biology, comparative anatomy, and the application of scientific concepts to understand human evolution.
