lab 11

Purpose

The purpose of this lab is for you to infer appropriate conclusions about fossil hominins based on the analysis of qualitative and quantitative empirical data and identify key physical (morphological), physiological (functional), and behavioral traits in human fossil ancestors.

This assignment will help you become familiar with the following important content knowledge in anthropology:

• later Homo and Homo sapiens evolution
• hypotheses to explain the origins of modern humans

You will practice the following skills as you complete this assignment: 

• infer specific behaviors based on anatomical traits
• identify anatomical similarities and differences in the later members of the genus Homo
• identify anatomical traits used to identify modern Homo sapiens in the paleoanthropological record

The knowledge you will gain and the skills you will practice by completing this lab are essential to your success in this course. Inferring appropriate conclusions based on qualitative and quantitative empirical data is a critical thinking skill you will use beyond this lab. 

Workstation 1: Archaic Homo sapiens

Instructions: 

• Observe the 3D models of Homo heidelbergensis (archaic Homo sapiens) below.
• Compare and contrast the crania. How are they similar? How are they different? 
• Identify two observable traits that are present on all three crania that are also shared with Homo erectus? 

Kabwe, Zambia (Africa), ~275-325 kya

Steinheim, Germany, 250-350 kya

 Florisbad, Orange Free State, South Africa, 250-350 kya

https://skfb.ly/6XRIN (click link for observation)

Workstation 3: Neanderthals vs. Modern Homo sapiens

Instructions: 

• Observe the 3D models of mandibles from a Neanderthal and a modern Homo sapiens below.
• Compare and contrast the two samples. How are they similar? How are they different? 
• Identify one observable trait that is present on the Neanderthal mandible, but not present on the modern Homo sapiens mandible. 
• Identify one observable trait that is present on the modern Homo sapiens mandible, but not present on the Neanderthal mandible. 

Spy Cave, Namur, Belgium, ~40 kya (Neanderthal)