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Shape of Life provides free science resources for both students and teachers about the evolution of the animal kingdom. We offer short videos, lesson plans, features and news of animals on planet earth.
Phyla
The animal kingdom is one of six kingdoms of life on earth. Discover the greatest story ever told - the story of the animal kingdom and the eight major phyla that make up 99 percent of animals.
Features
Blog
THE MAKING OF THE NEW TREE OF LIFE FOR SHAPE OF LIFE
Our beautiful Tree of Life image by Ray Troll has come to life with an incredible animation made by his son, Patrick Troll.
THE MAKING OF THE NEW TREE OF LIFE FOR SHAPE OF LIFE
Our beautiful Tree of Life image by Ray Troll has come to life with an incredible animation made by his son, Patrick Troll.
Creature
Comb Jelly (Ctenophore)
Ctenophores are absolutely beautiful creatures. Known as comb jellies, they use eight longitudinal rows of cilia for locomotion. When the cilia beat, light is scattered, producing a rainbow of colors.
Find Out More Here
Comb Jelly (Ctenophore)
Ctenophores are absolutely beautiful creatures. Known as comb jellies, they use eight longitudinal rows of cilia for locomotion. When the cilia beat, light is scattered, producing a rainbow of colors. Find Out More Here
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Lesson Plan
Constructing the Tree of Life
Students explore the evolution of life on earth by constructing a "tree of life" -- metaphorical art that arranges groups of organisms by characteristics and when scientists think they first evolved.
Constructing the Tree of Life
Students explore the evolution of life on earth by constructing a "tree of life" -- metaphorical art that arranges groups of organisms by characteristics and when scientists think they first evolved.
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Teacher
Sabrina Sahlstrom, Marine Sciences, Delta High School
“I started surfing when I was 14. It’s why my focus in teaching is marine life.” Sabrina makes 3D printing come alive in her classroom.
Sabrina Sahlstrom, Marine Sciences, Delta High School
“I started surfing when I was 14. It’s why my focus in teaching is marine life.” Sabrina makes 3D printing come alive in her classroom.
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Scientist
Christine Huffard Senior Research Specialist, MBARI
“Watch animals and they will lead you to the questions.” Crissy Hufford.
Christine Huffard Senior Research Specialist, MBARI
“Watch animals and they will lead you to the questions.” Crissy Hufford.
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Did you Know?
THE BEAUTIFUL COLLAGEN of BRITTLE STARS Brittle Star Collagen for Biomedical Uses
Echinoderm collagen is special because it’s pliable and can change from being stiff to flexible.
THE BEAUTIFUL COLLAGEN of BRITTLE STARS Brittle Star Collagen for Biomedical Uses
Echinoderm collagen is special because it’s pliable and can change from being stiff to flexible.
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