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Provided by: BioInteractive |Published on: October 15, 2021
Lesson Plans
9101112AP
Synopsis
In this activity, students learn about natural selection in populations by analyzing and interpreting two graphs showing how anole lizards adapt to extremely cold temperatures.
The graphs are from a study in which scientists investigated how winter storms in Texas affected local populations of anoles.
The educator materials document contains labeled illustrations, background information, interpretation of the illustrations, and discussion questions.
Students learn how to analyze data from a scientific illustration and understand how natural selection is impacted by climate change.
Additional Prerequisites
The resource includes an educator guide and student handout in PDF format.
The image of Texas and the two graphs are available to download as JPGs.
Differentiation
For students needing additional guidance, the teacher could lead the discussion and help students develop observations and interpretations.
Advanced students may be asked to write a paragraph on the relationship between extreme climate events, natural selection, and animal adaptation based on this resource.
The teacher could ask students to complete a project in which they study another species affected by extreme climate events.
