| In this unit students evaluate the various lines of evidence for evolution and learn how evolutionary relationships have led to modern systematics. Students begin by reviewing the theory of natural selection and then, using an example such as Darwin’s finches, apply their newly acquired knowledge of biological inheritance to discover the importance of genetic change and variability to the process of evolution. In addition they examine the fossil record, biochemistry and morphology of a given species to provide a informational basis for evaluating the evidence for evolution. Students examine various types of evolution including geographic and reproductive isolation, genetic drift, and the various types of selection (stabilizing, directional, and disruptive). They examine current biodiversity to look for further evidence of evolution on Earth. |
| STANDARD B1: INQUIRY, REFLECTION, AND SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS B1.1 Scientific Inquiry Students will understand the nature of science and demonstrate an ability to practice scientifi c reasoning by applying it to the design, execution, and evaluation of scientific investigations. Students will demonstrate their understanding that scientific knowledge is gathered through various forms of direct and indirect observations and the testing of this information by methods including, but not limited to, experimentation. They will be able to distinguish between types of scientific knowledge (e.g., hypotheses, laws, theories) and become aware of areas of active research in contrast to conclusions that are part of established scientific consensus. They will use their scientific knowledge to assess the costs, risks, and benefits of technological systems as they make personal choices and participate in public policy decisions. These insights will help them analyze the role science plays in society, technology, and potential career opportunities. B1.1B Evaluate the uncertainties or validity of scientific conclusions using an understanding of sources of measurement error, the challenges of controlling variables, accuracy of data analysis, logic of argument, logic of experimental design, and/or the dependence on underlying assumptions. B1.1E Describe a reason for a given conclusion using evidence from an investigation. B1.1g Use empirical evidence to explain and critique the reasoning used to draw a scientific conclusion or explanation. B1.1i Distinguish between scientific explanations that are regarded as current scientific consensus and the emerging questions that active researchers investigate. B1.2 Scientific Reflection and Social Implications B1.2A Critique whether or not specific questions can be answered through scientific investigations. B1.2B Identify and critique arguments about personal or societal issues based on scientific evidence. B1.2D Evaluate scientific explanations in a peer review process or discussion format. B1.2i Explain the progression of ideas and explanations that leads to science theories that are part of the current scientific consensus or core knowledge. B1.2k Analyze how science and society interact from a historical, political, economic, or social perspective. B2.4A Explain that living things can be classifi ed based on structural, embryological, and molecular (relatedness of DNA sequence) evidence. B2.4d Analyze the relationships among organisms based on their shared physical, biochemical, genetic, and cellular characteristics and functional processes. B3.5x Environmental Factors B3.5d Describe different reproductive strategies employed by various organisms and explain their advantages and disadvantages. B5.1A Summarize the major concepts of natural selection (differential survival and reproduction of chance inherited variants, depending on environmental conditions). B5.1B Describe how natural selection provides a mechanism for evolution. B5.1c Summarize the relationships between present-day organisms and those that inhabited the Earth in the past (e.g., use fossil record, embryonic stages, homologous structures, chemical basis). B5.1d Explain how a new species or variety may originate through the evolutionary process of natural selection. B5.1e Explain how natural selection leads to organisms that are well suited for the environment (differential survival and reproduction of chance inherited variants, depending upon environmental conditions). B5.1g Illustrate how genetic variation is preserved or eliminated from a population through natural selection (evolution) resulting in biodiversity. B5.2a Describe species as reproductively distinct groups of organisms that can be classified based on morphological, behavioral, and molecular similarities. B5.2b Explain that the degree of kinship between organisms or species can be estimated from the similarity of their DNA and protein sequences. B5.2c Trace the relationship between environmental changes and changes in the gene pool, such as genetic drift and isolation of subpopulations. B5.3A Explain how natural selection acts on individuals, but it is populations that evolve. Relate genetic mutations and genetic variety produced by sexual reproduction to diversity within a given population. B5.3B Describe the role of geographic isolation in speciation. B4.3C Give examples of ways in which genetic variation and environmental factors are causes of evolution and the diversity of organisms. B5.3d Explain how evolution through natural selection can result in changes in biodiversity. B5.3e Explain how changes at the gene level are the foundation for changes in populations and eventually the formation of new species. B5.3f Demonstrate and explain how biotechnology can improve a population and species. Copyright © 2001-2015 State of Michigan | |
