This activity was created during the Covid-19 pandemic for students to complete at home using the interactive explore at Learn.Genetics.

The activity is probably best for 2nd year biology students or AP Biology, but it could potentially work with first year students. The questions aren’t hard, but the concepts can be difficult to grasp.

The lesson explores how DNA evidence (mitochondrial and nuclear) is used to establish relationships and timing of species divergence. Students complete a worksheet as the click through the material. A final section asks them to apply their knowledge in considering how information could be used in conservation efforts.

The google doc can be downloaded and shared on google classroom. If you make a copy for each student they can write their answers directly in the answer field. Alternatively, you can download the pdf version which also has form fields for students who do not use google classroom. Either documents will work in print form.