Human biological and cultural evolution.

Examine early hominid tools and the Museum’s replica skull collection in an investigation of human evolution.

Delivered partly as a formal lecture, this session provides students with a rare opportunity to examine early hominid tools. These indicators of cultural evolution are discussed in relation to the Museum’s replica skull collection.

In facilitated discussion, students are challenged to identify biological changes that have taken place over sequential time periods and to cite associated scientific evidence.

This programme directly addresses NCEA Level 3 Biology Achievement Standard 90719 Describe trends in human evolution.

We recommend combining this session with a New Zealand Speciation session.

This programme is assisted by LEOTC, funded by the Ministry of Education.

Programme Information

Related Museum Resources

The Human Evolution programme can be combined with that for New Zealand Speciation.

Other Related Resources

BBC Science and Nature: Prehistoric Life

Walking with Cavemen - TV and Radio series.

Walking with Cavemen - A Book and DVD by John Lynch and Louise Barrett. An excellent companion to the TV series providing an overview of key points and contemporary thinking on the topic.

University of Waikato
An outstanding human evolution resource specifically designed for New Zealand science teachers. Produced and hosted by the University of Waikato.

 Useful Links

Scientific American
The official website of Scientific American, a leading publication reporting on current evolutionary research. Highly recommended.

National Geographic
The official website of National Geographic magazine. Takes a more popularist approach than the above but regularly features relevant articles and useful graphics.

New Scientist Magazine
The official website of New Scientist magazine. Another source of detailed, up to date research on human evolution.

Smithsonian Museum

Natural History Museum (NHM)