Where Did All These Wolves Come From?

NGSS Phenomena:
In the below map, we see the distribution of different subspecies of Canis Lupis (Grey Wolf). Look closely at the colors on the map and the colors of the wolves in the map key. Use this information to answer the questions that follow.
NGSS Phenomena: A map with showing the areas in Eurasia where different wolves live. Wolves near the north of the map are lighter colored, and some wolves are more red, others are smaller, and some are larger and more brown.

1. What genetic variation is there between these groups of wolves?

2. If all of these wolves descended from one kind of wolf, explain what could have caused them to look so different. Discuss a cause and effect relationship as well as two pieces of evidence to justify this claim. Be sure to identify whether the data you collect is qualitative and/or quantitative and why.

3. Look at C. I. Albus (light blue) and the parts of the world where it’s found. Write a claim to explain what would cause that wolf’s fur to be the color that it is.

4. What evidence can you use to support the claim you made about the cause C. I. Albus to have the color that it has.

5. What reasoning can you use to support your claim and evidence about what causes C. I. Albus to have the color that it has?

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This free response question aligns to the following standards

  • MS-LS4-4

  • Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

  • LS4.B: Natural Selection

This free response question aligns to the following standards

  • LS4.B: Natural Selection

  • MS-LS4-4

  • Cause and Effect: Mechanism and Prediction

  • Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

This free response question aligns to the following standards

  • LS4.B: Natural Selection

  • MS-LS4-4

  • Cause and Effect: Mechanism and Prediction

  • Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

This free response question aligns to the following standards

  • MS-LS4-4

  • Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

  • LS4.B: Natural Selection

  • Cause and Effect: Mechanism and Prediction

This free response question aligns to the following standards

  • MS-LS4-4

  • Cause and Effect: Mechanism and Prediction

  • Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions

  • LS4.B: Natural Selection

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