Seven Skeletons and a Mystery
Author(s)
Abstract
This problem-based learning case uses Archaeopteryx, the most famous fossil in the world, to show the vital role that fossils play in understanding evolutionary history and to explore the different theories for the origin of flight and the debate over a bird-dinosaur connection. The case was designed for an introductory biology course where the focus is on evolution. It would also be appropriate for classes in geology.
Objectives
- To show the vital role that fossils play in understanding evolutionary history.
- To highlight the evolution vs. creationist controversy over "transitional species."
- To consider how fossils are formed, discovered, and dated.
- To understand some of the difficulties in interpreting a phylogeny with major gaps in the fossil record.
- To learn some vertebrate anatomy and understand its role in determining function.
- To examine the evidence for the evolution of flight.
- To examine the evidence for the relationship between reptiles and birds, especially the hypotheses that dinosaurs are ancestral to birds.
- To consider the possible consequences of an ethical dilemma.
Keywords
Archaeopteryx; evolution; fossil; flight; transitional species; birds; dinosaurs; John Ostrom; Teyler MuseumTopical Areas
Ethics, History of scienceEducational Level
High school, Undergraduate lower divisionFormat
PDFType / Methods
Dilemma/Decision, Problem-Based LearningLanguage
EnglishSubject Headings
Evolutionary Biology | Geology | Paleontology |
Date Posted
09/30/99Teaching Notes
Case teaching notes are password-protected and access to them is limited to paid subscribed instructors. To become a paid subscriber, begin the process by registering.
Teaching notes are intended to help teachers select and adopt a case. They typically include a summary of the case, teaching objectives, information about the intended audience, details about how the case may be taught, and a list of references and resources.
Answer Key
Answer keys for the cases in our collection are password-protected and access to them is limited to paid subscribed instructors. To become a paid subscriber, begin the process by registering.