Interactive

NOVA Evolution Lab Game

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Many scholars study phylogenetic trees without understanding how they are made. Through an online game, young scientists use the given data to create phylogenetic trees of increasing complexity. They rely on the trees they create to answer scientific questions. 

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CCSS: Adaptable
NGSS: Designed
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Challenge pupils to come up with one question to ask a friend after solving each phylogenetic tree
  • Pick the best of the questions from students to put on an assessment
Classroom Considerations
  • Relies on prior knowledge of DNA and phylogenetic trees
  • The first of a seven-part series
Pros
  • Interactive game helps maintain student focus
  • Videos provide additional support and interesting hooks
  • Earning leaves for the tree of life provides immediate feedback
Cons
  • None