Reading Phylogenetic Trees
Learning Objective
I can interpret a phylogenetic tree to understand evolutionary relationships.
Lesson Flow
Watch Video
Intro to Cladograms and Phylogenetic Trees
Amoeba Sisters
Guided Notes
Key concepts students will learn:
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A cladogram is a diagram that serves as a hypothesis for possible evolutionary relationships among organisms based on shared characteristics.
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A clade includes a common ancestor and all of its descendants, and an intersection spot on a cladogram represents a node, which can represent a common ancestor.
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Cladograms show how lineages diverge and common ancestry, and relatedness is determined by internal nodes, not the proximity of tips.
Practice
3 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
“According to the cladogram discussed in the video, are maned wolves more closely related to frogs or sharks? Explain your answer by referring to the nodes in the cladogram.”
Teacher Guide
Get the complete package:
- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
- Extension activities
- Printable student handouts
