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= = =CAN I EVOLVE?=

Objectives and Goals

 * The learner will understand the role of natural selection in a population.
 * The learner will explore factors that influence natural selection.

NC Standards
3.05 Examine the development of the theory of evolution by natural selection including:
 * Development of the theory.
 * The origin and history of life.
 * Fossil and biochemical evidence.
 * Mechanisms of evolution.
 * Applications (pesticide and antibiotic resistance).

Description of the Lesson

 * This lesson is designed for students to understand the role of natural selection in the process of evolution. Students will explore a simulation and identify factors that affect natural selection. Students will collaborate with each other on specific variables and then post their findings for the other groups to view.

Materials Needed

 * Laptop
 * M&M's and Candy Corn

Web 2.0 Tools Used

 * Natural Selection Applet ([] )
 * Group Lab Report (Google Docs)
 * Wikispaces

Outline of Lesson

 * Explain Natural Selection
 * Explore Simulation for 5 minutes (pay close attention to the variables in the simulation jot down anything you notice as you are running the simulation.
 * Investigate the different variables within the simulation in groups and complete the template. Also students will create a wordle that describes the affects of the variable studied.
 * Hands-on simulation
 * Formative Assessment