PLANET OF LIFE: APES TO MAN

As you view this video, watch for the numerous incorrect and biased statements that are made--view the video critically. Make a note of these statements as they will be used in class discussion. Aside from its usefulness in helping you to develop critical thinking skills, I use this video because of several important topics it does cover. Overlook the ridiculous hollywood (halloween?) ape costume used to represent early hominids and focus on the following important points:
 1. What were the expectations about hominid evolution at the time that "Java Man" and "Peking Man" were found? What did this lead paleoanthropologists to look for in the fossil record?

 2. Carefully observe Susman's explanation of the differences in the pelvis of hominids and chimpanzees and the function of the gluteus medius muscle. Note how this contributes to different capabilities in terms of bipedality.

 3. The video points out that bipedal locomotion was a turning point in the split between apes and hominids--bipedal locomotion became a selective advantage due to what major factor? Note what the film states, not what you might th ink.

 4. Pay close attention to Susman's explanation of the Paranthropus robustus hand and his opinion on tool use by this hominid. How does he compare the chimpanzee hand, the Australopithecus afarensis hand, and the P aranthropus hand?