Careers in Science & Medicine

Chimpanzees and Humans: Same or Different?

-From Next of Kin - A Compassionate Interdisciplinary Science Curriculum.

Chimpanzees are 98.76% identical to us genetically. Chimpanzees are actually closer to humans genetically than to gorillas.

Chimpanzee behavior is a lot like our own. But just as there are differences between human cultures, there are physical, cultural, and behavioral differences that exist between our two species as well.

Chimpanzees are much stronger than humans are; 5-7 times as strong in overall strength. Their bones are denser, and their skin is tougher than ours. The density of their bones is one reason why chimpanzees stay away from water; they are not buoyant and they sink. Chimpanzees are also more agile. They spend much of their day in trees and require greater balance and agility than humans.

> What is Next of Kin
   :: The science curriculum
   :: Ordering info
   :: Order Next of Kin curriculum
   :: The book
   :: Order Next of Kin, the book

> Meet the Experts
   :: About the Foutses | honors
   :: About Rachel Fouts-Carrico

> Why do they use ASL?

> Chimpanzees & Humans
   :: Same or Different?

> Sample Lesson Plan
   :: Chimp or Human?

> Teacher Comments

> Educating the Next Generation

> Next of Kin Kick-Off