Links:
WHAT IS DIVERSITY?
OBJECTIVE:
Students will select an organism and study a collection of that organism
The organism will be collected from or observed in its current habitat
Observations will be recorded
Recognize the variations in these same organisms
Predict and support which of the organisms is the most fit (from which you observed)
PRIOR LEARNING:
Secondary level concepts of Evolution (variation of species, survival of the fittest)
Observation and record keeping skills
MATERIALS:
As per student
Computer with internet access
Secondary Biology textbook
Reference book from school library
WEBSITES/SUGGESTIONS:
http://royalsociety.org/publication.asp?id=3867
http://biodiveristy.ca.gov/Biodiversity/biodiv_def2.html
http://dbs.uci/~sustain/bio65/Titlpage.html
ROLES IN LESSON:
STUDENT:
Students will determine what data to record
Should include pictures to document their observations
Collection, reporting, and conclusion of data
TEACHER:
Provide suggestions to ignite students (can collect different types of insects or observe animals in their environment- Ex: deer in the woods or beluga whale exhibits at two different northeastern aquariums)
Provide materials needed for presentation day (LCD projectors, TV monitor, photocopies of handouts, etc.)
WRAP UP:
Students will share their information and theories (predictions) in a classroom presentation (as though presenting at a professional conference)
ASSESSMENT:
What is Diversity Rubric
NYS STANDARDS:
STANDARD 4
Students will understand and apply scientific concepts, principles, and theories pertaining to the physical setting and living environment and recognize the historical development of ideas in science.
Key Idea 3:
Individual organisms and species change over time.
3.1f Species evolve over time. Evolution is the consequence of the interactions of (1) the potential for a species to increase its numbers, (2) the genetic variability of offspring due to mutation and recombination of genes, (3) a finite supply of the resources required for life, and (4) the ensuing selection by the environment of those offspring better able to survive and leave offspring.
3.1g Some characteristics give individuals an advantage over others in surviving and reproducing, and the advantaged offspring, in turn, are more likely than others to survive and reproduce. The proportion of individuals that have advantageous characteristics will increase.
3.1h The variation of organisms within a species increases the likelihood that at least some members of the species will survive under changed environmental conditions.
3.1i Behaviors have evolved through natural selection. The broad patterns of behavior exhibited by organisms are those that have resulted in greater reproductive success.
PRENTICE HALL REVIEW BOOK TOPIC:
Topic 5- Evolution
EXTENSION/IDEAS:
Take students on a fieldtrip to the zoo.
Discuss concepts from this lesson while actually observing different species.
If a student selected an animal from a local zoo or aquarium ask them to speak about their animal before your field trip