Dinosaurs of the Gobi
|  |
Student Handout |
Which Came First?
Some scientists apply a type of study called cladistics to compare traits of different species and learn more about the relationship between birds and dinosaurs. To practice some of the skills that scientists use in cladistics, try the activity below.
Procedure
Look at the pictures of the different types of Nodnols along the dotted lines at the bottom of the page. Each shape represents a different species of Nodnol. With your group, examine the pictures of Nodnols. Make a list of the traits that Nodnols have. Choose five of the traits. Look at all of the Nodnols and record those that have or do not have each trait.
Questions
Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper.
Look at the data charts and compare the traits of each type of Nodnol. Which Nodnols do you think evolved first? What evidence are you using to support your idea? What other information might give you clues about the relative age and relationships among the Nodnols?
| 