Name: _________________

Assignment #1: Charles Darwin: The Beginnings of a Theory

Read Pages 5-36

Answer the following questions in paragraph or bullet form. Be sure to cite page numbers and reference specific examples. Diagrams, sketches, or tables are welcome additions. Assignments may be hand-written or typed. Must be legible, neat, and complete. 1. Describe Darwins experiences on the Beagle. What did he learn? Where did he travel, and for how long? 2. Discuss Darwins ideas about how species change over time, outlined on page 19 of the text. What is meant by permanence of species? What does Darwin mean by the phrase, descent with modification? 3. What is the difference between intersexual selection and intrasexual selection? Give a specific example of each type. 4. Why didnt Darwin publish his findings earlier (Pg. 26)? Why does he hesitate? In 1858, what events and people change his mind (Pg. 33)? 5. Make a list of 5 adaptations (physical traits that help an organism survive) from the text. Include the species name and a one-sentence description of each adaptive trait.

Grading Rubric for Darwin Assignments:

Advanced (5): Answer all parts of each question thoroughly, referencing specific examples and passages from the text. Cites page numbers in responses. Uses and explains scientific vocabulary. Highly Proficient (4): Answers all parts of each question briefly, some referencing of examples or page numbers. Proficient (3): Missing part of a question, not fully explained, missing page numbers, need to add more vocabulary and explanation to demonstrate a greater depth of comprehension.

Late assignments will earn a proficient grade (3).