Q Goal The goal of this discussion is to consider the features and trends we've observed in the skeletons, link those to behaviors, and consider what it really means to be human. Prompts: Start by reading through the short essays on the Smithsonian NMNH Human Origins webpage Human Characteristics: What does it mean to be human?Links to an external site. This website does a nice job of summarizing the trends we've observed in our hominin lineage over the last 5 million years, culminating in our own species, Homo sapiens. Post #1 – Do by Wednesday 11:59 pm Write a short paragraph thinking about the things you have learned about our hominin ancestors and our own species and what you think are the fundamental characteristics of being human. What questions do you still have about our ancestors and our own species? Post #2 – Do by Friday 11:59 pm Read through your classmate's thoughts on the important traits of being human. Reply to at least one person about their ideas. What traits do you agree with? Which traits do you think are less important? What questions do you have now? Post #3 – Do by Sunday 11:59 pm How would you summarize your understanding of this topic now? What species of hominin do you think had enough of these fundamental qualities that you would call them human? What traits are present in this species that lead you to this conclusion? There are no right or wrong answers, just talk about the traits you think are key to being human and what species has enough of these that you think of them as human. Grading: Learning and growth take practice and reflection and I am here to support your efforts. All assignments will receive an initial grade based on the provided rubric. If you aren't happy with the points you receive or need to improve your submission, everyone will have the option to review my feedback, revise your work, and resubmit your assignment by the "available until" date 1 week after the original due date. If you have questions about how to improve a submission or about my feedback, please ask me. My goal is to provide feedback within 72 hours of the due date for the assignment. Technical Help: How do I view the rubric for my graded discussion?Links to an external site. How do I reply to a discussion as a student?Links to an external site. How do I edit or delete discussion replies as a student?Links to an external site. How do I subscribe to a discussion as a student?Links to an external site. How do I view and sort discussion replies as a student?Links to an external site. How do I know when my instructor has graded my assignment?Links to an external site. How do I view assignment comments from my instructor?Links to an external site. Content Attribution: Pfister, Anne E. Chapter 12: What does it mean to be human? Links to an external site.Explorations Lab Activities. 2021.