Name _________________________________
Intro to Vertebrates
HO # _______
Directions: Read pp. 160 - 163 - Characteristics of Chordates / Characteristics of Vertebrates
1. Most chordates are vertebrates. In addition to the traits shared by all chordates, what
other two traits do vertebrates share? _________________________________________________
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The back is built around the bones of the backbone (spinal column). The spinal column
consists of 33 bones (vertebrae) sitting one on top of another. The backbone sits on a large
bony bowl - the pelvis - and is topped by the skull. The backbone of a vertebrate is part of
an endoskeleton.
2. From a person’s head to feet, what benefits does the endoskeleton offer?
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3. How does an endoskeleton differ from an arthropod exoskeleton?
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4. Which vertebrate animals do these
endoskeletons belong to?
A. _________________________________
B. _________________________________
C. _________________________________
D. _________________________________
Directions: Read pp. 162 and 163 - Keeping Conditions Stable
5. Write a definition for ectotherm. _______________________________________________________
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6. Write a definition for endotherm. _____________________________________________________
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7. Observe the following two diagrams. Make a claim by labeling the diagram which
represents an ectotherm and by labeling the diagram which represents an endotherm.
Provide evidence/reasoning to support your choices.
Claim:
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Evidence/Reasoning:
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Claim:
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Evidence/Reasoning:
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8. What are some examples of animals which are ectotherms?
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9. What are some examples of animals which are endotherms?
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