• Examine the geological and biological history of the earth prior to the Cambrian explosion.
• Learn about Ediacarian fossils, the Burgess Shale fossil deposits, the environmental conditions during the Cambrian, the types of organisms that developed during the Cambrian, and the possible causes of the Cambrian explosion.
• Consider and evaluate the controversy over the relationship between Ediacarian and Cambrian organisms.
• Collect facts and marshal them into a coherent and persuasive argument.
• Give a short oral report.
• Improve skills in teamwork and critical thinking.

Evolution; Cambrian; fossils; Ediacarian; Burgess;