Differentiated Investigations, Graphing Data, Mutation Analysis, and Evolution Mechanisms.
This digital lesson introduces the foundational principles of natural selection through structured reasoning, differentiated investigation, and data analysis.
Students begin by examining the five core postulates of Darwin’s theory. They then select four investigations from a set of twelve case studies spanning varying levels of complexity. Each case requires students to apply Darwin’s framework to explain trait variation, differential survival, and predicted population change.
The lesson moves beyond conceptual discussion into applied analysis. Students compare Darwin’s theory with Lamarck’s model of acquired characteristics, reinforcing accurate evolutionary reasoning and addressing common misconceptions.
Real-World Case Studies
The investigation set includes diverse biological examples, ranging from classic adaptation scenarios to more complex evolutionary patterns such as mimicry, coevolution, antibiotic resistance, and environmental selection pressures. This structure allows students to see natural selection operating across multiple ecological contexts.
Peppered Moth Simulation & Data Analysis
Students complete an online peppered moth simulation and analyze changes in moth populations over time. They construct a double-line graph to model phenotypic shifts and explain how environmental change influences survival patterns.
The lesson concludes with a mutation-level analysis of the genetic change responsible for the dark phenotype in peppered moths, reinforcing the connection between mutation and population-level evolution.
Instructional Purpose
This lesson is designed as a foundational anchor for an evolution unit. It establishes clear Darwinian reasoning, integrates quantitative analysis, and connects phenotype change to underlying genetic mechanisms.
Students leave with a structured understanding of how variation, selection, and mutation interact to produce population change over time.
To see a preview of this lesson, click here.
NGSS Alignment (High School):
HS-LS4-2; HS-LS4-3; HS-LS4-4
NGSS Alignment (Middle School):
MS-LS4-4; MS-LS4-6
Science & Engineering Practices (SEPs):
Developing and Using Models
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Constructing Explanations
Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs):
Cause and Effect
Patterns
Stability and Change
Common Core (Literacy in Science):
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.1 / RST.9-10.1; CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.7 / RST.9-10.7
Differentiated Investigations, Graphing Data, Mutation Analysis, and Evolution Mechanisms.
This digital lesson introduces the foundational principles of natural selection through structured reasoning, differentiated investigation, and data analysis.
Students begin by examining the five core postulates of Darwin’s theory. They then select four investigations from a set of twelve case studies spanning varying levels of complexity. Each case requires students to apply Darwin’s framework to explain trait variation, differential survival, and predicted population change.
The lesson moves beyond conceptual discussion into applied analysis. Students compare Darwin’s theory with Lamarck’s model of acquired characteristics, reinforcing accurate evolutionary reasoning and addressing common misconceptions.
Real-World Case Studies
The investigation set includes diverse biological examples, ranging from classic adaptation scenarios to more complex evolutionary patterns such as mimicry, coevolution, antibiotic resistance, and environmental selection pressures. This structure allows students to see natural selection operating across multiple ecological contexts.
Peppered Moth Simulation & Data Analysis
Students complete an online peppered moth simulation and analyze changes in moth populations over time. They construct a double-line graph to model phenotypic shifts and explain how environmental change influences survival patterns.
The lesson concludes with a mutation-level analysis of the genetic change responsible for the dark phenotype in peppered moths, reinforcing the connection between mutation and population-level evolution.
Instructional Purpose
This lesson is designed as a foundational anchor for an evolution unit. It establishes clear Darwinian reasoning, integrates quantitative analysis, and connects phenotype change to underlying genetic mechanisms.
Students leave with a structured understanding of how variation, selection, and mutation interact to produce population change over time.
To see a preview of this lesson, click here.
NGSS Alignment (High School):
HS-LS4-2; HS-LS4-3; HS-LS4-4
NGSS Alignment (Middle School):
MS-LS4-4; MS-LS4-6
Science & Engineering Practices (SEPs):
Developing and Using Models
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Constructing Explanations
Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs):
Cause and Effect
Patterns
Stability and Change
Common Core (Literacy in Science):
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.1 / RST.9-10.1; CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.6-8.7 / RST.9-10.7
