Evolution

Term Definition Example Sentence

evolution the process of change in living things over The theory of evolution explains how
(noun) many generations species have changed over time.

natural the process by which certain traits become The phenomenon of natural selection
selection more or less common in a population over signifies that only animals whose biological
(noun) time, based on their impact on survival and characteristics comply with the natural
reproduction environment are able to survive.

genetic differences in the genetic makeup of Genetic variation leads to the classification
variation individuals within a population of different species: For instance, Homo
(noun) sapiens.

species (noun) a group of organisms that can interbreed All animals can be classified into species.
and produce fertile offspring

biodiversity the variety of life forms in a particular Biodiversity is the key indicator of health in
(noun) habitat or ecosystem an ecosystem. If certain regions are more
abundant and variable in their life and
resources, then it is more likely for the
species living in the area to have the ability
to withstand stressors like drought, disease
and climate change.
 Evolution

Reading 1

Evolution is the process of change in living things over many generations. It happens when things
like natural selection and genetic drift act on genetic variation, causing certain traits to become
more or less common in a population over time. This process has led to the diversity of life that we
see today.

The theory of evolution by natural selection was developed by two British naturalists, Charles
Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace, in the 19th century. They wanted to explain why organisms
are adapted to their environments. Darwin wrote a book called "On the Origin of Species" where
he explained his theory in detail. The theory is based on observable facts about living things, like
the fact that more offspring are born than can survive, traits vary among individuals, different traits
affect survival and reproduction, and traits can be passed down to future generations. Over time,
individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and pass on their traits, leading to
changes in the population.

Evolution is not just a theory about the past, it is happening right now. The processes that cause
evolution include natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow. These processes can
change the DNA of a population over time, leading to new traits and species. All life on Earth,
including humans, shares a common ancestor that lived billions of years ago. The fossil record
shows the progression of life from simple organisms to complex ones. Evolution has shaped the
patterns of biodiversity that we see today.

Measles, a highly contagious virus, has been in the news recently. While it may seem like a new
problem, measles has been around for a long time. Evolutionary biology can help us understand
how diseases like measles have changed over time. By studying the genetic variation of the virus,
scientists can track its evolution and develop vaccines to protect against it. Vaccines are safe and
effective, but declining vaccination rates have made some people vulnerable to measles.
Understanding evolution can help us combat diseases and protect our health.

In conclusion, evolution is the process of change in living things over many generations. It is based
on observable facts about living organisms and has led to the diversity of life on Earth. The theory
of evolution by natural selection explains how traits change in a population over time. Evolution is
happening right now and has shaped the patterns of biodiversity that we see today. It can also
help us understand and combat diseases like measles. By studying evolution, scientists can
develop vaccines and protect our health.

Reading 2

Biology- Core Concepts- What is Evolution?

 Reading Summary + Example Sentence
1. Write 4 more ‘Example Sentences’ for the key terms based on the given definitions and
readings

Evolution: Evolution is the process of change in living things over many generations.

Natural Selection: Natural selection is the process through which populations of living
organisms adapt and change. Therefore, some species will have traits that are better suited to
the environment than others.

Genetic Variation: The presence of differences in sequences of genes (DNA) between individual
organisms of a species. This causes certain traits to be more or less common in a population
over time, which ultimately, leads to diversity within an ecosystem.

Species: A group of organisms that can reproduce with one another in nature and produce
fertile offspring.

Biodiversity: Biodiversity and evolution are related by the number of species found on Earth
and the genetic variation found within ecosystems.

2. Based on Reading 1 and Reading 2, write 5-6 sentences to summarize evolution.

Evolution is the process of change in groups of creatures over time. Species of living things
change over long periods of time to adapt to their environment through natural selection and
genetic variation. This process leads to evolution. The theory of natural selection was founded
by Charles Darwin and Alfred Russell Wallace in the 19th century: the theory is based on the
observable fact that more offspring are born than can survive, traits vary among individuals
which thereby affect survival and reproduction. Lastly, traits of living organisms can be passed
down through generations, hence the explanation why all life on earth shares a common
ancestor that lived billions of years ago (fossil record supports this claim)

By studying evolution, scientists can develop vaccines to protect our health → combat diseases
such as measles. For example, scientists have developed antibiotics in the 20th century.
Bacteria breed very quickly → however, natural selection swiftly reinforces any adaptation that
helps bacteria cope with a new drug.

Multiple Choice Questions

Question #1 Question #2 Question #3
Who developed the theory of What are some processes that Why is studying evolution
evolution by natural selection? cause evolution? important in combating
diseases like measles?

A. Charles Darwin and A. Natural selection, A. Because it helps us

Alfred Russel Wallace genetic drift, mutation, understand how
B. Isaac Newton and and gene flow diseases have changed
Albert Einstein B. Photosynthesis, over time
C. Marie Curie and Gregor respiration, digestion, B. Because it allows us to
Mendel and reproduction develop vaccines based
D. Thomas Edison and C. Mitosis, meiosis, on genetic variation
Nikola Tesla transcription, and C. Because it helps us track
translation the progression of life
D. Osmosis, diffusion, from simple organisms
active transport, and to complex ones
endocytosis D. Because it helps us
understand why
organisms are adapted
to their environments

Short Answer Questions

Question #1 Who developed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace.

Question #2 What are some processes that cause evolution?

Genetic Drift, Natural Selection and Mutations in genes.

Question #3 How can studying evolution help us combat diseases?

Studying evolution helps us understand how bacteria or diseases adapt and survive within its
environment through studying its genes. Bacterias breed very quickly and produce many
generations in a day. Therefore, scientists can develop a drug that reinforces natural selection,
leading to a mutation that spreads quickly through the bacteria population and results in apoptosis
without killing the patient.
Open Ended Questions
Question #1 How does the concept of evolution relate to your own life and experiences?

Evolution is a scientific theory regarding the origin of the diversity of life. Humans, like all living
organisms, have developed through evolution. Hence, all species are interconnected. Without
evolution, humans would not have had genetic mutations and therefore are not able to adapt and
survive to the environment (natural environment). Evolution is also integral for the health of living
organisms: It helps us understand how organisms grow to adapt to their environment, including
bacteria and hence, humans are able to develop vaccines that prevent the growth and division of
diseases.

In what ways can understanding the theory of evolution help you make sense of
Question #2 the world around you?

We can better understand the roots behind how genetic sequences have changed over time
leading to the variety of organisms and their characteristics → Therefore, humans can also
understand and interpret organismal adaptation to environmental conditions.

Reflect on the importance of vaccines in preventing diseases like measles. How

Question #3 does this relate to the concept of evolution?

Evolutionary biology helps us understand how diseases like measles have progressed over time.
Therefore, as scientists study the genetic variation of the virus, scientists are able to track its
evolution (its genetic flow) and develop vaccines to protect against it. Therefore, understanding
evolution can help us combat diseases and protect human health.

This Diffit resource was created by Vici McKnight