Evolution by Means of Natural Selection LabBackgroundEvolutionBiological evolution accounts for the diversity of species developed through gradualprocesses over many generations. Both genetic variation and environmental factors are causes ofevolution and diversity of organisms. Charles Darwin reached the conclusion that naturalselection is the mechanism of evolution. The theory of evolution is supported by evidence fromgeology, fossils, and comparative anatomy. Extinction of a species occurs when the environmentchanges and the adaptive characteristics of a species are insufficient for its survival.

Objectives Trying to use sporks and foon to pick up little

beans representing birds beak.

HypothesisThe spoon is the most adaptive because it can carry more insects.The white butterfly is most adaptive because they are more common.Materials

One spoon one spork one fork white beans green beans brown beans

MethodA. Students will be placed in groups of 31. “The Bird”a. Will be given a 60 second interval to gather as many insects as possible.b. The bird will only use its beak to capture insects.c. The bird will NOT use its feet (hands) to help pick up or transport insects.‐d. When the beak is full of insects the bird will fly back to the nest, depositthe insects, then proceed to gather more insects.2. “The Nest”a. The nest does NOT move.b. The nest holds the insects the bird has gathered.

3. “The Counter”a. The counter will help separate and count the insects gathered.b. The counter will write down totals for data.c. The counter will bring the teacher all insects gathered.B. Groups of birds will be assigned nesting locations around insect dense grasslands.C. After each gathering, students will change their role in the group. There will be 3gathering periods so every student will have a chance to be “the bird”.

AnalysisWhat environmental factors determined how many bugs were captured by each group?That there was grass and what the area was.Give two types of evidence for evolution.

How does genetics fit into evolution.

Include five new words and their definitions that you learned during this evolution unit. ConclusionWho was Charles Darwin?He was the one who introduced natural selection and evolutionWhy is Darwin so important to biology?helped us figure out about evolution and that it takes a really long time.Why are animals so different?Animals are different because they have different traits or they adapt for where they live.Did the data support or reject your hypotheses? Explain for each hypothesis.The data shows that yes the spoon is the most adaptive and that the white butterfly is the most common.