Evolution and Natural Selection Concepts

Evolution and Natural Selection

• Evolution is the process by which species adapt or change to acquire traits that enhance survival in their specific environments.
• Charles Darwin is credited with developing the theory of evolution through the concept of natural selection.

Natural Selection Explained

• Natural selection posits that individuals of a species possessing advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
• If a trait improves an individual's ability to thrive in its environment, that individual will tend to live longer and have more offspring.

Impact of Natural Selection

• Over time, the prevalence of beneficial traits increases within a population, leading to the evolution of that species.
• As more offspring inherit favorable traits, the overall characteristics of the species gradually shift.

Classroom Activity: Natural Selection Challenge

• Students will design and decorate a moth to blend into its environment, simulating adaptation.
• Moths will be camouflaged in a chosen classroom location.
• A guest will play the role of a bird to attempt to find and "eat" as many moths as possible, testing the effectiveness of their camouflage.
• This activity illustrates the concept of survival through natural selection by determining if the moths can avoid predation in their environment.