- ToL Learner Level:
- Intermediate; Advanced
- Target Grade/Age Level:
- All Grade/Age levels.
- Can be modified for many age/grade levels
- Learning Objective(s). Learners will:
- -Understand and be able to recreate the geological history of the Earth in terms of plate tectonics;
- -Distinguish between geological events and their physical effects on Earth;
- -Investigate the similarities and differences of various organisms found around Earth;
- -Identify the geological precursors that led to the possible distinctions currently seen between organisms in different parts of the world;
- -Provide examples of phylogeography at work in present-day situations;
- -Identify key persons and relevant research that has lead to the field of phylogeography
- Type of Activity
- Classroom resource; Web-based resource; Home-based resource; Informal learning resource
- Science Subject / Key Words
- Morphology & Anatomy;
- Life History & Development;
- Genetics & Heredity;
- Suggested Time Frame
- Each module will require independent research and analysis of information. It is suggested that the depth required be proportional to the time alloted. Thus a beginner class could expect to spend a day/period alloted to each component whereas for older students the expectations may be set higher such that a higher proportion of individual work may be expected. Again, as the topics covered are broad in nature, it is advised that students are not rushed through the material but that sufficient time for understanding of each module is allowed.
- Additional Treehouse Type:
- Art and Culture;
- Curricular Areas:
- Social Studies
- Teaching and Learning Strategy:
- Inquiry Learning;
- Hands-on Learning;
- Visual Instruction;
- Individualized instruction;
- Large Group instruction;
- Small Group instruction
If teachers/students are not familiar with some of the prior knowledge listed below, then it is advised that this material is covered prior to embarking on the phylogeography journey.
Physical Materials and Tools
- Markers, colouring tools, scissors, access to a computer, paper, pens, modeling clay, poster board
Although sufficient links and information are provided within the WebQuest, the following information would be beneficial to have been previously encountered: Basic idea of organisms and some genealogy. Understanding of familiar geological processes; earthquakes, volcanoes, mountain ranges, lakes, plate tectonics.
Information on the Internet
- A Paleoceanographic Summary A history of the geological epochs, with a focus on ocean formation
- Important events in the history of life An interactive timeline illustrating important events in history
- Gondwana Greening (pdf) Illustrated, comprehensive overview of major epochs, phylogeography, biodiversity and interesting bits of information
- Chameleon Biogeography Takes an Ocean Cruise An alternative viewpoint for the origin of chameleons is presented
- A Truly Bizarre Lizard Brief description and fossil evidence for chameleons
- Chameleon News Updated regularly, this online magazine features articles on all things chameleon
- What makes a petal a petal? An introduction to flower petals and an informative source for information on their evolutionary adaptations
- Nova: Mother of Gardens Click on the hyperlink 'launch interactive' and learn about a selection of common flowers that originated in China
- In Search of the First Flower A scientific article illustrating what may be considered one of the very first flowering plants discovered to date
- The Life of Birds: Evolution A very comprehensive look at the history and evolution of birds.
- Coral Reefs of the Indo-Pacific Here you will find a selection of literature on coral reefs and their geographical distribution as well as phylogeographical considerations.
- History of Biogeography A vivid description of biogeography and its history