Introduction
In this webquest, you will learn about vestigial structures. A vestigial structure is an anatomical feature that no longer seems to have a purpose in the current form of an organism of the given species. Many organisms have vestigial structures. Join me on this quest to learn about some of these structures.
Task
By using the internet, you will answer fifteen questions using at least five high-quality websites. You will use each website to answer three questions.
Process
Questions to answer on this webquest:
- What branch of science studies vestigial structures?
- How were vestigial structures discovered?
- Does every species have at least one vestigial structure?
- Humans have several vestigial structures including the coccyx, appendix, wisdom teeth, goosebumps and body hair. Can you name two more?
- Using one of your answers to questions 4, what do scientists believe one of the vestigial structures you listed was used for in early man?
- Can you find a human body part that was once believed to be a vestigial structure, but was ruled out?
- Are the wings on a penguin vestigial structures?
- Can you find out which organism has "pelvic spurs" and what they used to be?
- Can you find a plant that has a vestigial structure?
- Are the wings on female gypsy moths a vestigial structure?
- Besides humans, what other animal has vestigial teeth?
- Which animals have vestigial eyes?
- Do dandelions need pollen to reproduce?
- Do hollow bones benefit penguins?
- Do you have muscles in your ears?
Evaluation
Use the following websites to answer the questions
American Museum of Natural History (www.amnh.org)
About Education (www.evolution.about.com)
Live Science (www.livescience.com)
National Center for Science Education (www.ncse.com)
National Geographic Magazine (http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com)
Penn State University (https://online.science.psu.edu)
Conclusion
Congratulations! You are now experts on vestigial structures. I hope you've found this webquest interesting and educational.
Credits
evolution.about.com
American Museum of Natural History (www.amnh.org)
About Education (www.evolution.about.com)
Live Science (www.livescience.com)
National Center for Science Education (www.ncse.com)
National Geographic Magazine (http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com)
Penn State University (https://online.science.psu.edu)