Using segments from the PBS program: The Human Spark, students explore the question “What makes us human?” (Grades 5-8)

In this lesson, students will use selected segments from the PBS series The Human Spark to investigate the differences and similarities between the respective social dynamics of humans and our closest primate relatives and what they may tell us about what—if anything—may make us uniquely human. (Grades 9-12)

Using segments from the PBS program: The Human Spark, students explore the question “What makes us human?” These segments may be used alone or in conjunction with the lesson plan, "Being Human."

These video segments from the PBS series The Human Spark investigate the differences and similarities between the respective social dynamics of humans and our closest primate relatives and what they may tell us about what—if anything—may make us uniquely human.

Alan Alda finds out how human social networks compare to those of chimps and watches babies pick cooperative puppets over those that won't play.

Some chimp experts have concerns about how media portrayals could affect chimpanzee welfare in the United States and abroad.

Alan Alda explores how much humans and chimps have in common, and what sets us apart. Watch the full episode now.

Alan Alda finds out how children will help—and like it, while chimps are less inclined to offer enthusiastic assistance.

Scientist Keith Jensen plays the Ultimatum Game with Alan Alda and shows him the differences between how humans and chimps react to various offers.

If you’re a chimp, making friends is straightforward – put in some time grooming your buddy and hopefully you’ll stay on his good side. Not so for humans.