This is a very good introduction to the role evolution plays in the development of biodiversity. These topics and extinction are explained with the use of colorful interactive pictures.
This unit covers the processes of photosynthesis, extinction, biomimicry and bioremediation. In the first lesson on photosynthesis, students learn how engineers use the natural process of photosynthesis as an exemplary model of a complex yet efficient process for converting solar energy to chemical energy or distributing water throughout a system. In the next lesson on species extinction, students learn that it is happening at an alarming rate. Students discover that the destruction of habitat is the main reason many species are threatened and how engineers are trying to stop this habitat destruction. The third lesson introduces students to the idea of biomimicry or looking to nature for engineering ideas. And, in the fourth and final lesson, students learn about a specialty branch of engineering called bioremediation the use of living organisms to aid in the clean up of pollutant spills.
In addition to habitat destruction, other human-caused problems are also threatening many species. These include issues associated with climate change, pollution, and overpopulation. Learn more about human causes of extinction in this learning module produced by CK-12.
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An organism goes extinct when all of the members of a species die out and no more members remain. Extinctions are part of natural selection. Species often go extinct when their environment changes, and they do not have the traits they need to survive. Only those individuals with the traits needed to live in a changed environment survive. Learn more about mass extinctions in this learning module produced by CK-12.
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Does evolution only happen gradually through small changes? Or is it possible that drastic environmental changes can cause new species to evolve? Or can both small and large changes occur? Learn more about microevolution and macroevolution in this learning module produced by CK-12.
A free CK-12 account is required to view all materials.
Presentation of an emerging theory that explains the mass extinction of life that occurred at the end of the Permian period. [4:51]
Dinosaurs were not the only life to go extinct and leave a trail to their history. This webcast presents a paleobotanist who has studied extinction at a site in North Dakota. He discusses mass extinction. [29:16]
The resource allows learners to read the book online for free. A group of experts explain the fundamental methods of science, document the overwhelming evidence in support of biological evolution, and evaluate the alternative perspectives offered by advocates of various kinds of creationism.
In this lesson, students learn about the earth's past by studying clues that have been left behind, such as fossils and rocks. Students will find the answers to many questions: What is paleontology?, What is geological time?, What can we learn from fossils?, and Where do you find fossils? For the final activity, students pretend they are the paleontologist searching for evidence as to why the dinosaurs went extinct.
This is the opening site for the online exhibit at the Natural History Museum. The exhibit features a wealth of information on dinosaurs including a dinosaur directory, fossil specimens, information, pictures, and more. The exhibit also discusses creatures from the time period who also went extinct.
Learn some facts about the African penguin in this book. Includes audio narration in English and Spanish with text in English.
This activity illustrates the interrelationship between science and engineering in the context of extinction prevention. There are two parts to the activity. The first part challenges students to think like scientists as they generate reports on endangered species and give presentations worthy of a news channel or radio broadcast. The second part puts students in the shoes of engineers, designing ways to help the endangered species.
Find information about diversity among genes, species, and ecosystems that helps answer questions about the importance of biodiversity and how we can save species from extinction.
Students will learn about land formation, fossils, and erosion
Are we in the midst of a mass extinction? Is Homo sapiens triggering this mass extinction? Four expert panelists have written responses to the aforementioned questions for this highly informative site.
In this video segment from Evolution: "Extinction!", geologist Peter Ward discusses evidence for a Permian-Triassic mass extinction.
Psychology is designed to meet scope and sequence requirements for the single-semester introduction to psychology course. The book offers a comprehensive treatment of core concepts, grounded in both classic studies and current and emerging research. The text also includes coverage of the DSM-5 in examinations of psychological disorders. Psychology incorporates discussions that reflect the diversity within the discipline, as well as the diversity of cultures and communities across the globe.Senior Contributing AuthorsRose M. Spielman, Formerly of Quinnipiac UniversityContributing AuthorsKathryn Dumper, Bainbridge State CollegeWilliam Jenkins, Mercer UniversityArlene Lacombe, Saint Joseph's UniversityMarilyn Lovett, Livingstone CollegeMarion Perlmutter, University of Michigan
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
Explain how classical conditioning occurs
Summarize the processes of acquisition, extinction, spontaneous recovery, generalization, and discrimination