This unit will cover the basics of theory of evolution through natural selection. This introduction to evolution will help students to get familiar, with the similarities between all biological systems and to understand why these similarities exist. They will also learn about how evolution can be the framework upon which to study living systems and how it can provide answers essential questions as to why things are the way they are. Students will also reflect on the methods of systematic classification of living organisms.
Essential idea
There is overwhelming evidence for the evolution of life on Earth.
Curriculum
SMEO
Global Citizen: Explain how evidence for evolution and the existence of continuous phenotype such as skin colors invalidate the notion of racism.
- Evidence for evolution
- Natural selection
- Classification of biodiversity
- Cladistics
The detailed curriculum can be consulted here.
Learning resources
- POWERPOINT SLIDES - Topic 5: Evolution and biodiversity
- HOMEWORK - Alien Taxonomy
- TOK ACTIVITY - Just a Theory?
- LAB - Peppered moth simulation
- BLOG POST - Why We Get Sick
- BLOG POST - What would aliens look like?
- BLOG POST - Unintelligent Design
- BLOG POST - The Ability to Learn: An Evolutionary Advantage or a Cost?
- NEWS ARTICLE - Galapagos finches caught in act of becoming new species