Activity
In this activity,
students use matchsticks to model natural selection. Working on a blue carpet,
they try and pick up as many matchsticks (coloured blue and pink) as they can
in a limited time. This demonstrates the effect of camouflage on predation and how
this changes the ratios of the model organism over time. This prac is aimed at
a lower ability stage 5 class, as such it is very highly scaffolded. The
practical itself means that students who struggle with the concept of natural
selection are able to model it and see it for themselves. Students of a higher
ability who complete the work earlier will be able to continue modelling
natural selection over further generations.
Syllabus Dot points covered
WS4 Students
question and predict by:
a.
formulating questions or hypotheses that can be investigated scientifically
WS6 Students conduct
investigations by:
e.
reporting data and information, evidence and findings, with accuracy and
honesty
f.
evaluating the effectiveness of the planned procedure, co
WS7.1 Students
process data and information by:
e.
identifying data which supports or discounts a question or hypothesis being
investigated or a proposed solution to a problem
f.
describing specific ways to improve the quality of the data
WS8 Students solve
problems by:
d.
using cause-and-effect relationships to explain ideas
e.
using models to explain phenomena and make predictions
LW4
a.
describe scientific evidence that present-day organisms have evolved from
organisms in the past
c.
explain, using examples, how natural selection relates to changes in a
population, eg in the development of resistance of bacteria to antibiotics and
insects to pesticides
Activity Sheet
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