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.
Molluscs
Associated Shape of Life Content
SNIPS AND SNAILS AND GASTROPOD TAILS
A brief hands-on investigation of Class Gastropoda (snails and slugs), followed by a critical thinking exercise centered on segments of the Shape of Life. Students first examine the bodies and behavior of live slugs or snails, then use water balloons to model their unique style of locomotion, and finally tackle a series of analytical questions designed to cultivate a grasp of divergent evolution: the branching of a single ancestral form into multiple new forms for diverse new functions, niches, and habitats.
Shell Shocked
In this hands-on activity, students study the beautiful shells not as objects of beauty but as artifacts born of an evolutionary arms race.
The Eastern Oyster: A Not-So-Typical Mollusc
Lab dissection of a representative of Class Bivalvia. Supported by several Shape of Life segments, students interpret bivalve adaptations as a radical case of divergent evolution: A simple ancestral snail with a mobile lifestyle, single dome-shaped shell, bilateral symmetry, and a head (“cephalization”) transformed into a headless, double-shelled, sedentary filter-feeder whose bilateral form is obscure.
The Mussel: A Not So Typical Mollusc
Lab dissection of a representative of Class Bivalvia. Supported by several Shape of Life segments, students interpret bivalve adaptations as a radical case of divergent evolution: A simple ancestral snail with a mobile lifestyle, single dome-shaped shell, bilateral symmetry, and a head (“cephalization”) transformed into a headless, double-shelled, sedentary filter-feeder whose bilateral form is obscure.
Life in the Fast Lane: From Hunted to Hunter
Lab dissection of a squid, a member of Class Cephalopoda (along with the octopus and nautilus). Supported by several Shape of Life segments, students interpret squid adaptations as a radical case of divergent evolution: A line of ancestral snails abandoned the life of sluggish grazing and foraging in favor of a new niche as speedy open water predators.
Molluscs: The Survival Game Questions
A list of questions about the characteristics of Molluscs to use after viewing the video Molluscs: the Survival Game.
Phylum Mollusca-Questions
A list of questions to use after viewing the video Molluscs: The Survival Game.
Molluscs: The Survival Game - for ONLINE LEARNING
Students learn about molluscs through this PowerPoint which can be used individually or in a virtual classroom.
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. The module includes those listed below, which can also stand alone.
Snips and Snails and Gastropod Tails
This brief hands-on investigation of Gastropods –snails and slugs – includes observation of the bodies and behavior of live slugs or snails and video segments. Both high school and middle school versions are provided. The instructor's guide applies to both versions.
Shell Shocked
In this hands-on activity, students study the beautiful shells not as objects of beauty but as artifacts born of an evolutionary arms race. Both high school and middle school versions are provided. The instructor's guide applies to both versions
The Blue Mussel: A Not-So-Typical Mollusc
A lab dissection using mussels and supported by several Shape of Life segments: students interpret bivalve adaptations as a radical case of divergent evolution.
Both high school and middle school versions are provided. The instructor's guide applies to both versions.
The Oyster: A Not-So-Typical Mollusc
A lab dissection using oysters and supported by several Shape of Life segments: students interpret bivalve adaptations as a radical case of divergent evolution.
Both high school and middle school versions are provided. The instructor's guide applies to both versions.
Life in the Fast Lane: From Hunted to Hunter
Lab dissection of a squid supported by several Shape of Life segments: students interpret squid adaptations as a radical case of divergent evolution.
Both high school and middle school versions are provided. The instructor's guide applies to both versions.
