How have mammals adapted to thrive in diverse environments across the Cenozoic era?
Critical Thinking: Examine evolutionary trends and adaptations in mammals.
Collaboration: Work in groups for projects and presentations.
Global Citizenship: Appreciate the diversity and ecological roles of mammals worldwide.
How did the extinction of dinosaurs influence the evolution of mammals during the Cenozoic era?
What are the key structural and reproductive differences among monotremes, marsupials, and placental mammals?
How have marine mammals evolved differently from terrestrial mammals to adapt to their environments?
Students will analyze the evolutionary history of mammals post-dinosaur extinction.
Students will compare the structural and reproductive adaptations of different mammal groups.
Students will evaluate the adaptations of marine and terrestrial mammals through case studies.
Assessment Options:
Lesson 1: Group project on dinosaur extinction and mammal evolution.
Lesson 2: Comparative study activity on different mammal groups.
Lesson 3: Case study presentations on marine vs. terrestrial mammals.
Lesson 4: Participation in group quiz and discussions.
HS-LS4-1: Communicate scientific information that common ancestry and biological evolution are supported by multiple lines of empirical evidence.
HS-LS4-2: Construct an explanation based on evidence that the process of evolution primarily results from various factors, including genetic variation and competition.
HS-LS2-8: Evaluate evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species’ chances to survive and reproduce.
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