Building Phylogenetic Trees
Grade 9th Grade · Science · 60 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can construct a phylogenetic tree to represent evolutionary relationships.
Warm-Up Video
Khan Academy · 10:56
Understanding and building phylogenetic trees | High school biology | Khan Academy
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
A phylogenetic tree shows how different species evolved from common ancestors based on observable traits and molecular evidence.
- 2
The outgroup, like the lamprey in this example, is the species that is most different and whose common ancestor is most distant in the past.
- 3
When constructing a phylogenetic tree, biologists use parsimony to find the simplest explanation for the observed traits and relationships among species.
Practice Questions
12 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Using the traits of jaws, lungs, fur, and feathers, construct a simple phylogenetic tree showing the evolutionary relationships between a lamprey, sea bass, antelope, and bald eagle. Clearly indicate the outgroup and where each trait evolved on the tree.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
