How Can We Explain Evolutionary Relationships among Species?
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Provided by: BioInteractive|Published on: November 8, 2022
Lesson PlansScientist Reviewed
9101112AP
Scientist Reviewed This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- In this lesson, students learn how environmental factors drive the adaptations of Galápagos finch populations, make observations, analyze genetic and phylogenetic data, and make predictions about the evolution of finch populations.
- This resource contains background information, key concepts, student learning targets, a list of materials, teaching tips, extension activities, and an answer key.
Subjects: Biology
Authors: BioInteractive
Region: South and Central America
Languages: English, Spanish
Teaching Materials
Positives
- Students will use their problem-solving and critical thinking skills in this lesson.
- There are graphs of bird songs that students can evaluate, along with images and video clips.
Additional Prerequisites
- This activity is expected to take two 50-minute periods to complete and possibly more if the extension is included.
- Students should understand DNA sequences and how they affect natural selection before completing the activity.
- The portions of the activity that relate to the video clips require access to the Internet.
- There are two additional videos about natural selection related to finches and lizards that students can explore.
Differentiation
- Students can complete the activity individually, in pairs, or in groups.
- This lesson also includes an extension activity where students can apply what they have learned. The extension activity consists of six comprehension questions and three short video clips.
- Have students consider what effects climate change can have on natural selection, genetic diversity, and events that may speed up natural selection or create genetic bottlenecks.
- Have students consider the implications of research on natural selection for species conservation and climate policies.
- This lesson connects to AP/IB Biology and AP/IB Environmental Science classes, as well as general science and common core classes.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
About the Partner Provider
BioInteractive
BioInteractive brings the power of real science stories into tens of thousands of high school and undergraduate life science classrooms.
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
Learn about our review process →
