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Interlude A
Unit 2:
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Interlude B
Unit 3:
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Interlude C
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Interlude E

Cornell Finds Natural Selection in Humans

Nature, 20 Oct. 2005

The most detailed analysis to date of how humans differ from one another at the DNA level shows strong evidence that natural selection has shaped the recent evolution of our species.

» Read the full article

Active Reading Questions

  1. Many insects follow markings on flowers that are seen only under ultraviolet light. These markings lead the insects to nectar or pollen sources. The insects that follow the markings and the flowers that have the markings are said to have co-evolved. This means that they each have special ____________ that allow for their success.
    a) mates
    b) adaptations
    c) genetic drift
    d) homologous traits
  2. Humans and chimpanzees share 99% of their DNA. They also share many features that are derived from a common ancestor. Features derived from a common ancestor that make a line of organisms unique are said to be ____________.
    a) convergent
    b) divergent
    c) homologous
    d) adaptations
  3. Define natural selection. Explain what type of evidence for natural selection the authors of the article have found.
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