Phylum Mollusca: Macroevolution Module

Through a sequence of “explore-before-explain” laboratory investigations, coupled with segments from the Shape of Life videos, students study molluscs in the present and their long  evolutionary history. 

Lesson Plan Files
Related Scientist
Geerat Vermeij, Evolutionary Biologist
New Standards
Cross Cutting Concepts: Patterns
Cross Cutting Concepts: Structure and Function
MS-LS1.A Structure and Function
MS-LS1.B
MS-LS1.D
MS-LS2.B
MS-LS2.C
MS-LS3.A and B: Inheritance and Variation of Traits
MS-LS4.A Evidence of Common Ancestry and Diversity
MS-LS4.C Adaptation
Nature of Science: Science is a Human Endeavor
Nature of Science: Science, Models, Laws, Mechanisms, and Theories Explain Natural Phenomena
Nature of Science: Scientific Investigations use a variety of methods
Nature of Science: Scientific Knowledge Assumes an Order and Consistency in Natural Systems
Nature of Science: Scientific Knowledge is Based on Empirical Evidence
Nature of Science: Scientific knowledge is open to revision in light of new evidence.

Videos to use with this lesson

Molluscs: The Survival Game
Geerat Vermeij, Evolutionary Biologist: Reading A Shell’s Story
Molluscs: Blue-Ringed Octopus Warning Coloration
Molluscs: Octopus Camouflage
Molluscs: Nautilus Regulates Its Buoyancy
Molluscs: Pycnopodia Chases Abalone
Flatworms: An Invasive Flatworm Hunts Earthworms
Mollusc Animation: Squid Body Plan
Sponges: Filter Feeding Made Visible
Mollusc Animation: Nautilus Body Plan
Mollusc Animation: Shell Repair
Mollusc Animation: Abalone
Flatworm Animation: Body Plan