Lesson summary for...

Connecting Population Growth and Biological Evolution

Author/Source: National Academy of Sciences
Overview:Students develop a model of the mathematical nature of population growth to consider the population growth of plant and animal species and the resulting pressure that contributes to natural selection.
Concepts:This lesson covers the following concepts:
  • Traits that are advantageous often persist in a population.
  • Organisms with similar requirements may compete with one another for limited resources.
  • Individual organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and have offspring.
  • Environmental changes affect opportunities and can influence natural selection.
Grade Level:6-8
Time:Two class periods.
Teacher Background:Explore these links for additional information on the topics covered in this lesson:
Teaching Tips:Although this lesson is recommended for grades 5-12, students in the earlier grades may need some assistance with the math.