Monday, July 15, 2013

HUMAN EVOLUTION: THE NEXT STAGES


“What will become of humans as we evolve under the selective pressures of our modern lives and technology? If we adapt to some of the more bizarre elements of the present, humans could undergo some surreal changes
By: Dean Burnett
Published: The Guardian; 10 July 2013; www.guardian.co.uk
Level of Difficulty: **
Note to the student: this is a speed reading exercise; allow yourself 2 minutes per question max but try to complete the questions – write out the answers – in as little time as possible. The answers need to be precise!
NOW CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING

What Is The Future Of Human Evolution?

Are we evolving a new type of human? Different species will have evolved by 2050, scientists claim http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2752166/Are-evolving-NEW-type-human-Different-species-evolved-2050-scientist-says.html
QUESTIONS
1.       Why is Susan Greenfield’s novel described as a dystopia?
2.       What is the basic tenet of transhumanism?
3.       What use could chromatophores be?
4.       Which sentence best summarizes the advantages of the ability to change skin color?
5.       The cocktail party effect can best be described as the as the ability to ……………………………………
6.       Why will humans need to make more use of the cocktail party effect in the future?
7.       The above will have health benefits because people will be ……………………………………………………
8.       Humans could evolve tentacles because………………………………………………………………………………….
9.       Humans could develop more flexible skeletons thanks to an increase in ………………………………
10.   Why will a greater proportion of cartilage be a professional advantage to dance groups?
11.   How would the acquisition of wings impact the world of sports?
HUMAN EVOLUTION: THE NEXT STAGES KEY AND TEACHER’S NOTES
This is a lighthearted little text detailing some possible evolutionary changes that might take place in the human body with justification. Each view is nicely supported. The students might like to discuss their own takes on evolution when they are done. My personal opinion is that our thumbs will develop three digits to meet the requirement for texting. Others may have different views. Enjoy.
1.       Because all her predictions about the perils of technology have come true
2.       The enhancement of the human condition via technology is good even essential
3.       They could provide the opportunity to consciously alter the color of skin
4.       Being able to either visually blend in or stand out at will would be a potent advantage in modern society
5.       Focus on a specific conversation that catches your attention (despite their being…)
6.       Because the internet and mainstream media has seemingly given every person the impression that they should air their opinion no matter how ill informed on any subject they wish
7.       Less stressed and angry
8.       With the increasing need to use technical interfaces, our priorities are changing
9.       Cartilage in their skeletons
10.   They would be able to perform moves beyond those of their more rigid counterparts, ensuring a presence on numerous TV talent shows

11.   Some extreme sports would end up being considered rather mundane

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