Format
1.) The path of human migration out of Africa is discussed.
2.) Damaging effects of too much or too little UV radiation from the Sun are introduced.
3.) Students are asked to describe how variation of human skin color can provide protection from this damage.
4.) Students will explain how science cannot support the term 'race' as a valid biological concept.
5.) Class may be invited to try a sorting exercise, if time and classroom space allows.
Objectives
•Describe how differences in skin color are biological adaptations to life under the sun.
•Describe the scientific basis for the statement: “We are all Africans”
•Identify examples of how studying human evolution better equips us to understand general mammalian physiology and the unique health issues of our species.
•Explain how science cannot support the term 'race' as a valid biological concept.
•Relate how the social and cultural concepts of 'race' continue to affect our treatment of others.
Standards Alignment
National Standards
Please see the Ohio Academic Standards below.
State Standards
OHIO LEARNING STANDARDS
Grade 8 Science: Life Science - Species and Reproduction
Grade 8 Social Studies: Geography – Human Systems
Grades 9-12 Science: Biology – Heredity & Evolution
Grades 9-12 Social Studies: Social Transformations in the United States (1945-1994)
American Government - Basic Principles of the U.S. Constitution Contemporary World Issues – Global Connections Contemporary World Issues -Civil and Human Rights