Evolution of Hardware
In this project, we had to classify and explore the relationships between 40 different "fossils" or pieces of hardware. These included nuts, bolts, screws, & washers of varying shapes, sizes and colors. We had to imagine that the hardware was actually organisms from millions of years ago and create a story of those organisms' evolution and progression. We first split the hardware up based on more general traits such as threads or no threads. Then we identified unique characteristics for each individual piece of hardware. Using this classification we created a large cladogram to show those relationships.
After creating our cladogram we investigated a possible line of progression of evolution. This story was affected by mutations, competition, & survival of the fittest between many species. We also gave each species a specific Latin name based on its traits.
Content
Evolution - The gradual change in an organism over time
Natural Selection - A process where only the organisms best adapted to their environment will survive to have offspring
Adaptation - A trait that has been altered to better suit an organism's environment
Mutation - A random change in a gene or trait
Competition - Conflict between two organisms or species for one resource
Reproductive Isolation - Differentiation of reproductive organs
Behavioral Isolation - Differentiation of mating patterns
Geographic Isolation - Differentiation of location preventing mating
Temporal Isolation - Differentiation of breeding cycles
Natural Selection - A process where only the organisms best adapted to their environment will survive to have offspring
Adaptation - A trait that has been altered to better suit an organism's environment
Mutation - A random change in a gene or trait
Competition - Conflict between two organisms or species for one resource
Reproductive Isolation - Differentiation of reproductive organs
Behavioral Isolation - Differentiation of mating patterns
Geographic Isolation - Differentiation of location preventing mating
Temporal Isolation - Differentiation of breeding cycles
Reflection
This project had some very difficult pieces to complete. Our group split up the work into different tasks such as creating the cladogram, naming, and writing the evolution story. This plan went very well because each of our group members had different talents. We completed all of the work in time and to a level we all felt comfortable with. In the beginning of the project however, my group confused about the final product we were creating. Another challenge was making sure everyone felt like they were doing a fair amount of work. Throughout the project we kept spirits high and had lots of fun.