Assessment Questions 3.3

1. What evidence suggests the existence of a new hominin genus branching off from Australopithecus around 2.8 million years ago?

The evidence includes a mandible found at the Ledi-Geraru site in Ethiopia, dating to 2.8 million years ago. This mandible shares some traits with Australopithecus but is distinct and represents the earliest glimmerings of a new and different hominin genus.

2. What characteristics distinguish Homo habilis from australopithecines, and why is Homo habilis considered more similar to modern humans?

Homo habilis exhibits a larger and differently shaped skull compared to australopithecines, with less prognathism, a taller forehead, and a more rounded profile. These features are considered more similar to modern humans. The passage suggests that Homo habilis and related species were taxonomically more like modern humans than australopithecines or paranthropines.

3. What is the significance of Oldowan technology, and what does the passage highlight regarding stone tool craftsmanship?

Oldowan technology involves intentional stone tool production, requiring intelligence and skill. Stone tools dating back to around 2.58-2.55 million years ago at Gona and 2.61 million years ago at Ledi-Geraru demonstrate early human abilities in stone tool craftsmanship. The passage emphasizes the challenges and skills involved in producing Oldowan tools, such as recognizing suitable raw materials and understanding the properties of different rocks.