Lesson summary for...

Investigating Natural Selection

Author/Source: National Academy of Sciences
Overview:Students experience one mechanism for evolution through a simulation that models the principles of natural selection and helps answer the question: How might biological change have occurred and been reinforced over time?
Concepts:This lesson covers the following concepts:
  • Evolution results from selection acting upon genetic variation within a population.
  • Traits that are advantageous often persist in a population.
  • The process by which advantageous traits are maintained and disadvantageous traits are weeded out of a population is known as natural selection.
  • Inherited characteristics affect the likelihood of an organism's survival and reproduction.
  • Populations evolve.
Grade Level:9-12
Time:Three class periods.
Teacher Background:Explore these links for additional information on the topics covered in this lesson: