Variation Is Essential: How Does Variation Within a Population Affect the Survival of a Species?

This is a lesson about phenotypical variation within populations and how these differences are essential for biological evolution. Students will use a model organism (in this case, kidney beans) to explore variation patterns and subsequently connect these differences to artificial & natural selection. The NGSS’ CrossCutting Concepts and Science & Engineering Practices are embedded throughout the lesson.

The main learning objectives are:

  • Using a model (kidney beans) to explore the natural variations within a population.
  • Measuring differences between individuals in a population (population of beans).
  • Describing how genetic/phenotypic variation is a key part of biological evolution because it is a prerequisite for natural selection.
  • Demonstrating in which ways genetic variation is advantageous to a population because it enables some individuals to adapt to the environment while maintaining the survival of the population.

The NGSS Performance Expectations covered are HS-LS4-2. & HS-LS4-4.
Resource ID#: 188159 Type: Video/Audio/Animation
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Direct Link: https://web.mit.edu/blossoms/videos/lessons/variation_essential_how_does_variation_within_population_affect_survival_species

General Information

Subject(s): Science
Grade Level(s): 9, 10, 11
Intended Audience: Educators educators, Students
Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter, LCD Projector
Instructional Time: 50 Minute(s)
Keywords: Phenotypical variation, artificial and natural selection, biological evolution, NGSS
Instructional Component Type(s): Video/Audio/Animation,  Lesson Plan,  Student Center Activity
Instructional Design Framework(s): Guided Inquiry (Level 3)
Resource Collection: MIT BLOSSOMS

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