Evolution

Introduction

Scientific understanding requires both facts and theories that can explain those facts in a coherant manner. Evolution, in this context, is both a fact and a theory. Organisms have evolved during the history of life on Earth, and biologists have identified and investigated mechanisms that can explain the major patterns of change.

What is Evolution?

Evolution means the development of more complex living things from simpler ones. it is a process of change over a long period of time. Evolutionary theory holds that all species evolved from a single form of life which lived about 3.5 billion years ago. This basic form of life evolved into more than 2 million species living on the Earth today.

[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faRlFsYmkeY align:left]






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Task

This task requires you to independently research and present information regarding Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

The task is due on the Wednesday 1st of July.

There will be some time allocated in class but the majority of the work will need to be done in your own time.

It needs to be approximately two typed pages (1000 words).

This research project is also to be presented to the class. This presentation is to include the use of ICT (powerpoint, videos, etc.).

It needs to be well presented, with clearly titled sections.

This task will contribute to your class assessment mark.



Process

Part 1

Explain clearly Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. This section will need to cover:

  • Darwin's upbringing (including a picture of him).
  • How Darwin's trip to the Galapogas island helped mould his theory.
  • The reasons for his reluctance to publish his work and reaction when he did.

Part 2

In part 2 you are required to provide an overview of theory of evolution by natural selection. This will include:

  • An explanation of what evolution is and the process that leads to it occurring.
  • Definitions for the following: Variation, heritable trait, population, offspring, fitness.
  • An example of how evolution might occur with pictures.

Part 3

Part 3 is focused on the evidence of evolution. It should be broken up into at least three clearly titled sections which each cover a different type of evidence. This section needs to be detailed and should include pictures.

Part 4

Create a time chart that shoes the increasing complexity of life forms over the last 350 million years. This time chart can be presented using text and pictures.

Presentation

You are to present your research project to the class using powerpoint, prezie, or a form of ICT of your choosing (check with teacher). It needs to be well presented, with clearly titled sections. You may use images, videos and interactive activities.

Useful Resources to begin your research:




Evaluation

Students will illustrate a deepen understanding of Evolution and the Theory of Evolution by Charles Darwin.

Students presented their research task in an effective format and structure.

Clear explanation of Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution, and his personal background.

Clear and precise overview of the Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection.

Detailed and clear description of three sources of evidence that supports the Theory of Evolution.



Conclusion

Through this research task you have learnt about Charles Darwin's life and how he come to producing the theory on evolution. You have now also deepen your understanding on the theory of evolution by natural selection and the evidence that supports this theory.

You would have discovered that Charles Darwin's theory of evolution is the widely held notion that all life is related and has descended from a common ancestor, and that much of his material was collected during a voyage around the world in HMS Beagle.

Through this task you would now be able to explain in detail what evolution is and the procees that leads to it occurring.

Credits
  • The Simpsons - Homer Evolution

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faRlFsYmkeY