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Shape of Life provides free science resources for both students and teachers about the evolution of the animal kingdom. We offer short videos, lesson plans, features and news of animals on planet earth.
Phyla
The animal kingdom is one of six kingdoms of life on earth. Discover the greatest story ever told - the story of the animal kingdom and the eight major phyla that make up 99 percent of animals.
Features
Creature
THE LEECH: An Extreme Annelid
For some people, hearing the word leech sends shudders through their bodies. That’s because of the leech’s reputation as blood suckers. But not all leeches feed that way. And there’s a lot more to them than their fearsome reputation
THE LEECH: An Extreme Annelid
For some people, hearing the word leech sends shudders through their bodies. That’s because of the leech’s reputation as blood suckers. But not all leeches feed that way. And there’s a lot more to them than their fearsome reputation
Lesson Plan
Annelid Adaptions + Art
Students create annelid inspired works of art based upon patterns of behavior and visuals.
Annelid Adaptions + Art
Students create annelid inspired works of art based upon patterns of behavior and visuals.
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Did You Know?
Climate Change Curriculum
Teachers! There’s a new, FREE, climate change curriculum from the National Wildlife Federation.
Climate Change Curriculum
Teachers! There’s a new, FREE, climate change curriculum from the National Wildlife Federation.
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Teacher
Carole Gonzalez, Science Department Chair, Maryvale Preparatory School
It’s tough getting kids outside with all the ‘insta-info’ on screens. Carole’s approach is encouraging.
Carole Gonzalez, Science Department Chair, Maryvale Preparatory School
It’s tough getting kids outside with all the ‘insta-info’ on screens. Carole’s approach is encouraging.
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Scientist
Damhnait McHugh, Raab Family Chair and Professor of Biology, Colgate University
"When I travel to annelid biology conferences around the world, there is usually someone who asks to take a selfie with me so that they can show their students back home that they met the Worm Woman from the Shape of Life Annelid episode!"
Damhnait McHugh, Raab Family Chair and Professor of Biology, Colgate University
"When I travel to annelid biology conferences around the world, there is usually someone who asks to take a selfie with me so that they can show their students back home that they met the Worm Woman from the Shape of Life Annelid episode!"
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Blog
Our Relationship to Leeches
For many centuries, including in ancient Egypt and Greece, doctors thought blood-letting – reducing the amount of blood in a sick person’s body – would cure various illnesses.
Our Relationship to Leeches
For many centuries, including in ancient Egypt and Greece, doctors thought blood-letting – reducing the amount of blood in a sick person’s body – would cure various illnesses.
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