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Defenses against predation: Interpreting graphs of predator behavior

Author(s): Jennifer Schafer1, Lynette Strickland2

1. Winthrop University 2. Boston University

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Summary:
In this lesson, students discuss anti-predator defense mechanisms and the types of cues defenses provide to predators. Students then interpret graphs of behavior of arthropod predators when presented with different phenotypes of color polymorphic…

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In this lesson, students discuss anti-predator defense mechanisms and the types of cues defenses provide to predators. Students then interpret graphs of behavior of arthropod predators when presented with different phenotypes of color polymorphic tortoise beetles. Finally, students view and reflect on an interview with Dr. Lynette Strickland, the biologist who collected the data that they interpreted.

Description

This lesson was designed for the latter portion (~55 min) of a 75-min class period on species interactions with in-person delivery. The target student level is an introductory biology course with majors and non-majors. The materials included here are an instructor guide (1_LessonGuide_DefensesAgainstPredation), an in-class presentation (Google slides; 2_PresentationSlides_DefensesAgainstPredation), a summative assessment (3_SummativeAssessment_DefensesAgainstPredation), and link to the interview with Dr. Lynette Strickland (BioGraphI Interview with Dr. Lynette Strickland).

Quantitative learning objectives

  • Interpret graphs and/or data figures related to the concepts for this lesson.
  • Reflect on your perceptions about using graphs or figures in biology.

Diversity/equity/inclusion learning objectives

  • Reflect on your perception of people who do biology.
  • Compare your own interests and/or identities to those of people who do biology.

Content learning objectives

  • Describe anti-predator defense mechanisms.
  • Classify defenses based on communication cues.
  • Explain how variation in predator behavior and phenotypic variation within a prey species influences consumption by predators.

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