What is evolution?

Chapter 11 Lesson 1 Evidence of Evolution

The scientific theory of evolution explains how living things descend from earlier organisms. It helps us understand the history of life on Earth.

Evolution is change over time.

What evidence supports evolution?

Fossils Similarities on DNA and protein structure Similarities of body structure Similarities in Early Development

Fossils

Fossils help scientist infer about the shape and function of ancient organisms' body structures. They support the theory that living organisms evolved from earlier simpler organisms. The Fossil Record (the millions of fossils collected by scientists and organized by date) gives clues of how and when a new species evolved and how organisms may be related

Species a group of similar organisms that can mate with each other and reproduce fertile offspring.

Similarities in DNA and protein Structure

Scientists infer that species inherited many of the same genes from a common ancestor. The more similar the DNA sequence the more closely related the species are. The order of amino acids in proteins can also show how closely related two species may be.

Similarities in Body Structures

Organisms that share the same basic body plan are assumed to have come from a common ancestor.

Vertebrates have a backbone. Invertebrates do not have a backbone.

Homologous structures structures shared by species are attributed to a common ancestor.

Similarities in early Development

Scientist also infer evolutionary relationships by comparing early development of organisms.

Organisms with common ancestry look similar during the early stages of development.

(See next slide.)

Lesson 2 Darwins Theory

Discovery Streaming

Natural Selection The world of birds Eating like a bird Gizmo Activities

What is Natural Selection?

Natural selection is the PROCESS by which individuals that are better adapted to the environment are more likely to survive and reproduce than other members of the same specie. Adaptation - trait that increases the organisms ability to survive and reproduce. Variation - differences between individuals of the same species. Trait genetic characteristic.

Environmental change + Adaptation = Natural Selection.

The case of the Moth during the industrial revolution. The case of antibiotic resistant bacteria and super bugs. White Lizard

How do new species form?

Lesson 3 Biodiversity and Extinction

A new species can form when a group of individuals remain isolated from the rest of its species long enough to evolve different traits that prevent reproduction.

What factors affect biodiversity?

Biodiversity the number of different species in an area. Factors that affect biodiversity in an ecosystem are as follows: Area the larger the area the more biodiversity. Climate tropical rainforests are the most diverse ecosystems. Genetic Diversity species with diverse gene pools are better able to adapt and survive. changes in the environment. Niche Diversity a diverse habitat supports a larger number of species than a uniformed habitat.

Why do species go extinct?

Extinction when all members of a species disappear on Earth. Process of extinction

Threaten species in danger to become endangered. Endangered species in danger to become extinct.

Extinction and Human Activities

Extinction is a natural process that usually happens gradually. Extinction rates have increased do to human activities.

Pollution Contamination Destruction of habitats Invasive species Hunting