14.2: Human Skin Color Variation - Part I
- Page ID
- 138558
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Human Skin Color Variation - Part 1
A close-up photograph of human skin
Learning Objectives
- Describe and illustrate the cellular process that produces skin color.
Supplies Needed
- Internet access
- Worksheet (provided)
Readings
Introduction
Steps
- In step one, students watch the video How We Get Our Skin Color produced by HHMI BioInteractive. This video describes how skin pigment is generated by skin cells as protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
- Students answer a series of questions designed to help them understand the process.
- Finally, students demonstrate what they have learned by drawing a diagram that summarizes the cellular process that produces skin color.
Tips and Suggestions
For Further Exploration
- American Anthropological Association. Understanding Race Project.
- Jablonski, Nina G. 2012. Living Color: The Biological and Social Meaning of Skin Color. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.
- Jablonski, Nina G. 2004. “The Evolution of Human Skin and Skin Color.” Annual Review of Anthropology 33 (2004): 585–623.
References
Image Attributions
Human Skin Color Variation Part 1 Worksheet
Step One: Exploring the Biology of Skin Color
- Draw a simple diagram that illustrates this entire process of skin pigment production, as described in the video. Your diagram must include the following terms: malanosomes, melanin, tyrosine, keratinocytes, melanocytes, epidermis, dermis, hypodermis. Your diagram does not necessarily need to be artistically beautiful, but should demonstrate your understanding of this process. Be sure to label each part and process. You are welcome to write descriptions of processes in the margins of the diagram.