Human Evolution Biology NCEA Level 3

Key Terms Definitions

Acheulean Tools

Advancement of Oldowan tools resembling flattened handaxes, first used by Homo Erectus.

Arboreal

Refers to tree-dwelling, or spending most time above the ground amongst the trees.

Bipedalism

The act of walking upright on two legs, or two limbs.

Cultural evolution

The passing on of knowledge from one generation to another through means other than DNA, such as social interaction.

Foramen magnum

The hole in the bottom of the skull that allows the spinal chord to pass through. Evolved from rear position to central position at base of skull to support upright walking.

Hominids

The group of primates made up of hominins and the great apes, such as gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, and gibbons.

Hominins

The group of primates made up of humans and our most recent, closely related ancestors.

Mitochondrial DNA

The small, circular DNA found in the mitochondria of cells, which replicates independently on nuclear DNA.

Mousterian tools

Carefully shaped stone tools often combined with other materials, first used by the Neanderthals.

Multiregional theory

The model of dispersion whereby Homo Sapiens evolved from Homo Erectus simultaneously in different locations around the globe after Homo Erectus left Africa.

Nuchal crest

The part of the skull where the neck muscles attach to hold up the head.

Oldowan tools

The oldest tools used by hominins, first used by Homo Habilis, made from stones with chips on one side.

Out of Africa theory (Replacement theory)

The model of dispersion whereby Homo Erectus first evolved into Homo Sapiens while still in Africa, and then some Homo Sapiens left Africa and colonised other locations around the globe.

Quadrupedalism

The act of walking on four legs, or four limbs.

Upper paleolithic tools

Advanced tools made from a variety of materials, such as animal bone and hide, used by Neanderthals and Homo Sapiens.

Valgus angle

The inward slant of the femur (thigh bone) from hip to knee. Places feet over body’s centre of gravity for efficient and stable upright walking.

Zygomatic arches

Cheek bones. Served as an anchor to make room for powerful jaw-chewing muscles.

Non-opposable big toe

A toe that can not move toward or cross over the other toes to grasp or hold objects. Allows for more stable upright walking.

S-shaped spine

Allows efficient bipedal walking by balancing body weight over the hips and absorbing walking shock.

Pelvis

Evolved to short, broad, basin-like shape to support upright walking.

Foot arch

Acts as shock absorber and stiff spring that stores and releases kinetic energy for efficient bipedal movement.

Cranium

Dramatic increase in brain size and shift towards flatter face and rounder skull.

Opposable thumb

Thumb lengthened and became more robust, allowing for more precise handling.