Download cladogram activity (1)

Name ______________________
Date __________
Block _____________
Cladogram Activity
A cladogram is a diagram based upon similar traits found
in organisms. Cladograms show evolutionary relationships
among groups of organisms. Scientists use the fossil
record, structural, and molecular comparisons (DNA &
RNA) to construct cladograms. Organisms that are
located in close proximity to one another share similar
evolutionary characteristics, and are therefore more
closely related.
Which organisms are most closely related?
a. 5 & 6 or 6 & 7
2. Which organism is the common ancestor for 6, 7, & 8?
1.
3.
What is the common ancestor for all organisms in this cladogram?
Circle the conclusion that best supports the data given in this
cladogram:
a. modern bears evolved from species that are now extinct
b. The short-faced bear (4) was the ancestor of the black bear.
c. Present day bear species are more closely related than their
ancestors were.
d. Natural selection favored the brown bear over the American
black bear.
4.
5a. You are a scientist that discovered an extinct member of the bear
family that is most closely related to the American Black Bear (7).
Draw this organism on the cladogram.
5b. Provide a name both common and scientific.
6. DRAW Ursus minimus (3) the extinct ancestor of modern bears.
What characteristics do you think this organism would have?
Drawing:
Characteristics:
-
7. Build your own Cladogram using the following shapes. Hint: try to
group the shapes into similar categories then build your cladogram.
Use a straight line as the common ancestor. Have fun and be
creative! 
Tri Hex Trap Parall Squ
angl agon ezoi elogra are
e
d
m
Pent Rect Roun Oct Ov Do Cir
agon angl ded agon al nut cle
e
Rect
angle