Evolution & Taxonomy

Evolution is often called the “unifying theory of biology” because it organizes all of the observations gathered by biologists and proposes and explanation for those observations.    All state standards for teaching science include a section on evolution (sometimes called adaptation or change over time).

Evolution

Peppered Moth Simulation – newspaper and colored paper simulated natural selection
Peppered Moth Simulation Kit – similar to above, only uses a purchased kit from Neo Sci.
Peppered Moth Online Simulation – uses shockwave to simulate capturing moths

Modeling Natural Selection – use tools such as spoons to “capture” beans and determine the best adaptatons

Sex and the Single Guppy – uses pbs site that models sexual selection in guppies
Sex and the Single Guppy – advanced, lab report required
Evolution Lab – simulator models mutation rates and selection strengths

Evolution Concept Map – graphic organizer
Evolution Crossword Puzzle – terms related to topic of evolution

Examining the Fossil Record – organize paper “fossils” to show change over time
Explorations Through Time – explore Berkeley website on evolution, answer questions
Understand Homology and Analogy – also Berkeley website,  questions
Understanding Evolution – The Arthropod Story – Berkeley interactive activity with questions

PBS Series Evolution – watch video clips, answer questions
Becoming Human – video clips and information website; questions

Taxonomy

Interpreting Graphics – uses a map to show groups of animals and how they are related
Dichotomous Keys (Norns) – practice using keys, imaginary creatures
Dichotomous Keys (Aliens) – more practice using keys
Fingerprint Classification – look at fingerprints and develop a way to classify them

Taxonomy Project – students create their own kingdoms, phyla..etc and design organisms
Alien Taxonomy – group and categorize alien species
Analyze and Construct Cladograms – very simple cladograms showing how animals are organized by derived characters
Zoobook – project that explores orders and naming of species, taxonomic structures

Evolution Notes and Presentations

Evolution Notes |  Taxonomy Notes

Presentations on Evolution and Taxonomy