Work samples, phenomena, assessment templates, and videos that directly address standard MS-LS4-3: embryological evidence of common ancestry.

Middle schoolers analyze and interpret data for patterns in the fossil record that document the existence, diversity, extinction, and change of life forms throughout the history of life on earth under the assumption that natural laws...

This 2nd grade unit invites children to learn their ancestors' native countries of origin. The take-home page for family ancestry offers several alternatives to citing a specific family immigration history. Studying immigration provides...

In this instructional activity, students compare similarities in the embryos of different organisms to look for features that would indicate common ancestry. They will then investigate how understanding this aspect of evolution has...

This is a great lesson plan that combines Karoytypes and evolution. Students will recognize that the chromosomes of chimpanzees and humans are remarkably similar, then correlate that to their evolutionary relationship.

This lesson plan involves comparison of amino acids to create a phylogenetic tree of primates. Young scholars will also use other species information to draw conclusions about evolutionary relationships.

This lesson plan focuses on differences in the amino acid sequence of hemoglobin and myoglobin proteins. They use the number of differences to create a phylogenetic tree.

This lesson plan requires students to analyze DNA restriction maps to determine the differences in the sequence for several primates and humans. They then use the information to create a cladogram.

Excellent, thought-provoking lesson plan on the controversy over the remains of what is known as the Kennewick Man. Should they be considered as remains of a Native American ancestor and thus be buried or should scientists be allowed to...

This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court's decision that determined the government acted constitutionally when it detained people of Japanese ancestry inside internment camps during World War II. Students learn what...

This research project requires middle schoolers to connect with the past by researching both primary and secondary sources for family history. Their findings are presented in a keepsake portfolio and in a multimedia presentation...

Constructing phylogenetic trees may be a daunting task for young scholars, but this lesson plan is a simulation of what molecular biologists must do to determine relationships. This plan is for students who have a good grasp of DNA...

This site outlines two well-organized lesson plans for teaching about German culture in the United States. Also includes extra credit ideas.

Jesse's Star, a novel by Ellen Schwartz, is about a young boy who develops an appreciation and understanding of his Russian Jewish heritage. This teacher's guide includes a book summary, teaching ideas and the author's reflections on...

Explain how the isolated and homegeneous population of Iceland makes research in family ancestry simpler than in other cultures. Investigate the work of genealogists, and trace your own heritage as far as you can without extensive research.