Human skulls: using evidence from the past (non-statutory)
I can describe how human skulls have changed over time and use fossil evidence to suggest reasons why.
Human skulls: using evidence from the past (non-statutory)
I can describe how human skulls have changed over time and use fossil evidence to suggest reasons why.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Scientists who study humans depend on fossil evidence to help them learn about how our ancestors have changed over time.
- Human skulls can show changes in characteristics such as: skull shape, brain and jaw size.
- Modern day skulls show differences, suggested by scientists, linked to humans chewing softer, processed food.
Keywords
Prehistoric - Prehistoric times are time periods which came before written records began.
Fossil - A fossil is the remains or imprint of living things that are sometimes preserved in rock.
Evidence - Evidence is information which helps us to prove that something is true or not true.
Ancestor - Your ancestor lived in the past and is directly related to you.
Skull - The skull is the name for the bones of the head.
Common misconception
Pupils may think that humans as we know them have always looked the same as they do now.
Use the images of skulls in the slide deck to clearly show how humans’ appearance has changed over many thousands of years.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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