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Lesson 1 (from Chapter 1, The Iconography of an Explanation)

Objective

Chapter 1, The Iconography of an Explanation

In Chapter 1, Gould introduces us to the Burgess Shale. The objective of this lesson is to discuss the origins of the Burgess Shale, and how the author will elaborate on this description to provide a philosophical, historical and scientific lesson throughout the remainder of the book.

Lesson

1) Partner Discussion: Pair up with a partner and discuss how the first chapter presents the Burgess Shale. Where is the Burgess Shale located? What is the Burgess Shale composed of? What is especially important about the Burgess Shale? Each partner should discuss their primary observations of the Burgess Shale and their previous knowledge of its existence.

2) Class Discussion: Start an all-class discussion responding to the outcome of the partner discussion. Ask students for experiences or examples of fossils they've encountered or learned about. Discuss the significance of fossils and also the unique importance...

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