MS-LS4-2
Apply scientific ideas to construct an explanation for the anatomical similarities and differences among modern organisms and between modern and fossil organisms to infer evolutionary relationships.
- Fossils
Where do humans come from?
Some scientists propose a newfound South African species as the most likely ancestor of the line that led to humans. But not everyone accepts that this is where it all began.
- Animals
The secret songs of giant beavers
Scientists discover a noisemaking chamber in the extinct animal’s skull.
- Humans
Mummies share their secrets
Cutting-edge technology such as CT, or CAT, scans and endoscopes are allowing scientists to see not just what’s underneath the wrappings but also what’s inside a mummy’s body.
- Humans
Old bones ignite fresh debate
Scientists try to understand how 2 million-year-old fossils fit among ancient species.
- Fossils
Dangerous dinos in the dark
Eye fossils reveal predatory dinosaurs’ preference for hunting at night.
- Environment
Busy bacteria leave big mark
Earth’s earliest life-forms built mounds on an Antarctic lake bottom.
- Animals
Eating can be skin deep
In the laboratory, bottom-dwelling hagfish absorb nutrients through the skin.
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- Fossils
Big fish in ancient waters
Fossils have revealed an ancient, oversized relative of modern-day swordfish.
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- Fossils
Ancient critter caught shedding Its skin
A fossil reveals that ancient animals shed their skin, just as insects and crustaceans do today.
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