11th Grade  Project 1 week

"Genes & Jumps: Evolution Adventure!"

Heather W
HS-LS4-1
LS.4.A
HS-LS4-1
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse students in the exploration of evolution and common ancestry through hands-on, real-world activities that foster critical thinking and collaboration. By engaging with diverse perspectives, including traditional ecological knowledge, students will deepen their understanding of biodiversity and speciation. This experience aims to cultivate self-directed learning and academic mindset, enabling students to reflect on their personal growth and the broader impact of their discoveries on ecological communities.

Learning goals

Students will explore the concept of common ancestry and speciation through a hands-on investigation of biodiversity, fostering a deeper understanding of evolutionary processes. They will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing empirical evidence and constructing models that demonstrate species interconnections within ecosystems. Through collaboration and reflection, students will enhance their self-directed learning abilities, using feedback to refine their understanding and communicate scientific information effectively. Engaging with community partners, they will gain insights into traditional ecological knowledge, enriching their academic mindset and sense of belonging in the scientific community.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS4-1 - Communicate scientific information that common ancestry and biological evolution are supported by multiple lines of empirical evidence.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] LS.4.A - Evidence of Common Ancestry and Diversity
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS4-1 - Communicate scientific information that common ancestry and biological evolution are supported by multiple lines of empirical evidence.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will collaboratively construct a model of a specific ecosystem, with each student contributing a component that represents a species and its evolutionary traits. This tactile exploration will culminate in a collaborative art installation, symbolizing the interconnectedness of species within the ecosystem. Additionally, students will create a digital timeline tracing the evolutionary history of a chosen species, integrating research on fossil records, genetic data, and environmental changes. These products will be showcased in the 'Biodiversity Bazaar' and serve as a basis for peer review, fostering reflection and deeper understanding of biodiversity and evolution.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Biodiversity Bazaar,' where students set up interactive booths that showcase various species and their evolutionary traits. Each booth should include hands-on activities and discussions that highlight common ancestry, encouraging students to engage with the material actively. This event will serve as an immersive introduction to the concepts of evolution and biodiversity, sparking curiosity and setting the stage for deeper exploration throughout the project.

Exhibition

Host an 'Evolution Expo' where students present their ecosystem models and digital timelines to peers, teachers, and community members, including the invited indigenous group. Encourage interactive discussions and Q&A sessions to deepen understanding and appreciation of biodiversity and speciation. Use the collaborative art installation as a centerpiece to visually demonstrate the interconnectedness of species, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.