6th - 8th Grade Module 10 Concept 2

Cycle 1

How does genetic variation among organisms affect survival and reproduction?
Cycle Summary

In this Concept, students consider one way that evolution is able to occur- natural selection. They consider why traits in populations might change in proportion over time.

Read More +
Session 1
Elicit

Students complete a probe about natural selection.

Engage

Students view a video about finches on the Galapagos Islands and wonder about how the diversification of different species occurs.

Session 2
Explore

Students model changing populations of species by means of natural selection in the I Will Survive, Keep on Surviving’ simulation.

Session 3
Explain

Students use their collected data to graph results and draw conclusions from the I Will Survive simulation.
Students read an article about natural selection. Students read about animals on the Galapagos Islands.

Session 4
Explain

Students use their collected data to graph results and draw conclusions from the I Will Survive simulation.
Students read an article about natural selection. Students read about animals on the Galapagos Islands.

Session 5
Elaborate

Students read animal scenarios about the relationship between an organism’s traits and its environment.
Students revisit the mouse population phenomenon and construct an explanation for this.

Session 6
Evaluate

Students construct a CER argument based on evidence gathered through readings and simulations.
Students are formally assessed on their knowledge about natural selection.

Session 7
Evaluate

Students construct a CER argument based on evidence gathered through readings and simulations.
Students are formally assessed on their knowledge about natural selection.

Extend
Extend

Students learn about sexual selection through a guided video, journal page, and a card sorting activity.