Speciation Activity: Students model Mutation, Natural Selection, and Evolution
By Science of Curiosity
In this fun, easy, and low-prep activity, students experience the process of evolution (speciation) due to random mutation and geographic isolation. Students get a solid understanding of where new traits come from and how changes in the environment can select for different traits. They also experience how evolution is limited to the traits in the population - if no individuals have a trait that aids in survival, extinction is a real possibility! Students often have trouble with the concepts of Natural Selection and Evolution of a species. Where do new traits come from? Does the environment cause mutations to happen? Or does the mutation come first? How does geographic isolation lead to speciation? This hands on activity will answer all of those questions and solidify evolution concepts for your students. This resource comes with... a full video explanation of the activity a Google Slideshow to use with your class - editable! an activity sheet a three page student sheet a full answer key! Set up time - 10 minutes Additional materials needed per group: four small pieces of scrap (or copy) paper per student in the group Tape A baggie Easy and fun!
Find it on: Creator website, Teachers Pay Teachers