The genus Homo is a taxonomic group that includes modern humans (Homo sapiens) as well as several extinct species of early humans. The members of the genus Homo are characterized by their large brain size, tool use, bipedalism, and complex social behaviors. The study of the genus Homo is important for understanding the evolution of humans and our closest relatives.

Key Members of the Genus Homo

1. Homo habilis: This species lived in East Africa approximately 2.1 to 1.5 million years ago. They are known for their stone tool technology and are considered one of the earliest members of the genus Homo.

2. Homo erectus: Homo erectus lived approximately 1.9 million to 143,000 years ago. They were the first of the hominin lineage to migrate out of Africa and are known for their advanced tool-making abilities and use of fire.

3. Homo neanderthalensis: Neanderthals lived in Europe and western Asia from approximately 400,000 to 40,000 years ago. They were well-adapted to cold climates and are known for their distinctive physical features and use of complex tools.

4. Homo sapiens: This is the species to which modern humans belong. Homo sapiens originated in Africa approximately 300,000 years ago and have since migrated to every continent. They are known for their complex language, symbolic thinking, and technological advancements.

Study Guide

What are the key characteristics of the genus Homo?
Identify and describe at least three species within the genus Homo.
How does the genus Homo differ from other hominin groups?
Discuss the significance of Homo sapiens within the genus Homo.
Explain the importance of tool use in the evolution of the genus Homo.

Studying the genus Homo provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history of humans and the development of unique traits and behaviors that distinguish us from other organisms. It also helps us understand the ecological and social factors that influenced the success and spread of different Homo species throughout history.

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Sixth Grade. Our impact on earth

Vocabulary/Answer key

Our impact on earth

The resources above cover the following skills:

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

Earth’s Systems

Analyze and interpret data (e.g., tables, graphs, maps of global and regional temperatures; atmospheric levels of gases such as carbon dioxide and methane; rates of human activities) to describe how various human activities (e.g., use of fossil fuels, creation of urban heat islands, agricultural practices) and natural processes (e.g., solar radiation, greenhouse effect, volcanic activity) may cause changes in local and global temperatures over time.

Earth and Human Activity

Analyze evidence (e.g., databases on human populations, rates of consumption of food and other natural resources) to explain how changes in human population, per capita consumption of natural resources, and other human activities (e.g., land use, resource development, water and air pollution, urbanization) affect Earth’s systems.

Implement scientific principles to design processes for monitoring and minimizing human impact on the environment (e.g., water usage, including withdrawal of water from streams and aquifers or construction of dams and levees; land usage, including urban development, agriculture, or removal of wetlands; pollution of air, water, and land).

Genus Homo

Key Members of the Genus Homo

Study Guide

[Genus Homo] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

◂Science Worksheets and Study Guides Sixth Grade. Our impact on earth

The resources above cover the following skills: