Activity Introduction
Quick summary: Students imagine how humans will evolve in the future according to a range of selective agents. Using their knowledge of evolutionary processes students work in pairs to brainstorm ideas, answer questions and to create a future human.
Learning goals:
- Students understand what evolution is, how it occurs and how it might apply to humans.
- Students hypothesise agents affecting future human evolution and how speciation might occur in humans in the future.
21st century skills:
Australian Curriculum Mapping
Content description:
Year 10 Science
- The theory of evolution by natural selection explains the diversity of living things and is supported by a range of scientific evidence (ACSSU185)
Syllabus Outcomes: SC5-5WS, SC5-6WS, SC5-7WS, SC5-14LW.
General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking.
Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability OI.2.
Relevant parts of Year 10 Science achievement standards: Students explain the processes that underpin heredity and evolution.
Topic: Evolution.
Time required: 60 mins.
Level of teacher scaffolding: Medium – facilitate discussion and oversee activity.
Resources required: Internet access, desktop or online image editing program, Student Worksheet – one copy per student OR computers/tablets to access the online worksheet, Where do you come from, Human evolution factsheet. Persuasive writing tips.
Digital technology opportunities: Image editing, digital sharing capabilities.
Homework and extension opportunities:
Keywords: Evolution, humans, speciation, selective agents.
Cool Australia’s curriculum team continually reviews and refines our resources to be in line with changes to the Australian Curriculum.