Subject: Science
Grade Level: Grade 10
Objective:
1. Understand how evolution is being studied from the fossil record and molecular
data.
2. Give the importance of understanding the origin of life and explain why
reproduction, variation, and adaptation are necessary for the survival of species.
3. Discuss how natural selection promotes expression and propagation of traits and
species that adapt to the changing environment.
Learning within the curriculum:
1. Classification of organisms: This topic explores how organisms are grouped based
on shared characteristics, which is essential for understanding evolutionary
relationships and how species have adapted over time.
2. Genetic variation: This lesson covers how genetic diversity within a population
contributes to the ability of species to adapt to environmental changes, linking
directly to natural selection and the survival of species.
Learning across the curriculum:
1. History: The study of ancient civilizations can be related to evolution as it provides
insights into how human beings have evolved culturally and socially over time,
paralleling biological evolution.
2. Mathematics: The concept of probability can be used to understand genetic
variation and natural selection, as it helps explain how traits are passed on and how
certain traits may become more prevalent within a population over generations.
Elicit:
Teaching Strategy: Think-Pair-Share
Instructional Materials: None required
Anecdote 1: In the Philippines, we have various indigenous groups, each with
unique survival strategies and adaptations to their environment, such as the Ifugao
rice terraces, which showcase how culture and environment shape human evolution.
Anecdote 2: The process of traditional fishing methods in different regions of the
Philippines, like the use of fish traps or netting techniques, highlights how
communities adapt their practices based on environmental changes and resource
availability, reflecting the principles of adaptation and survival.
Engage:
Teaching Strategy: Interactive Discussion
Instructional Materials: None required
Energizer 1: "Survival of the Fittest" game - Students mimic different animals
adapting to various environmental scenarios presented by the teacher, encouraging
them to think creatively about adaptation.
Energizer 2: "Evolution Charades" - Students act out different stages of evolution or
adaptations of animals, while others guess what they are, fostering engagement and
learning through movement and creativity.
Explore:
Activities
Activity 1: Fossil Record Investigation
Teaching Strategy: Inquiry-Based Learning
Materials: Pictures of different fossils (can be printed or shown on a screen)
Significance: This activity helps students understand how fossils provide evidence
of evolution and how species have changed over time.
Instructions:
1. Examine different fossil images and note their characteristics.
2. Discuss in groups what these fossils might tell us about the organisms'
environments and adaptations.
3. Present findings to the class, focusing on how these fossils link to the concept of
evolution.
Rubrics:
- Clarity of presentation: 5 pts.
- Group collaboration: 5 pts.
- Depth of analysis: 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1. What characteristics did you observe in the fossils?
2. How do these characteristics suggest adaptation?
3. What conclusions can you draw about the organisms' environments based on the
fossils?
Activity 2: Natural Selection Simulation
Teaching Strategy: Experiential Learning
Materials: None required (can be done in an open space)
Significance: This activity allows students to experience natural selection firsthand
through role-play.
Instructions:
1. Assign roles to students as different colored "bugs" in a designated area.
2. Explain that "predators" (other students) will try to catch the "bugs" based on their
color.
3. After a few rounds, discuss which colors survived and why.
Rubrics:
- Participation: 5 pts.
- Understanding of concepts: 5 pts.
- Reflection during discussion: 5 pts.
Assessment Questions:
1. Which colors were most likely to survive and why?
2. How does this relate to natural selection?
3. What factors influenced the survival of certain "bugs"?
Explain:
Activity 1 - The fossil record provides critical evidence of how organisms have
evolved over millions of years, showcasing gradual changes in species.
Activity 2 - Understanding reproduction, variation, and adaptation highlights the
mechanisms through which evolution operates, emphasizing the role of genetic
diversity in survival.
Activity 3 - Natural selection acts on existing variation within populations, leading to
changes in traits over generations, ultimately shaping the evolution of species.
Elaborate:
Teaching Strategy: Project-Based Learning
1. Task: Create a poster that illustrates the process of natural selection in a specific
species, including evidence from the fossil record and molecular data.
2. Task: Conduct an interview with a local elder about traditional practices that show
adaptation to the environment, then present findings to the class.
Discussion: Students will share insights from their projects, fostering a deeper
understanding of evolution and its real-world implications.
Evaluate:
Teaching Strategy: Formative Assessment
Questions:
1. Explain how the fossil record supports the theory of evolution.
2. Describe an example of adaptation you observed in your environment.
3. How does variation within a species contribute to its survival?
For Higher Order Thinking Skills:
Questions:
1. How would you design an experiment to test the effects of environmental changes
on a specific species?
2. Discuss the implications of genetic engineering on the process of evolution.
3. How can understanding evolution influence conservation efforts?
Answers:
1. By manipulating variables in a controlled environment and observing changes
over time, we can gather data on adaptability.
2. Genetic engineering could potentially alter natural selection processes, either
accelerating or hindering evolution.
3. Knowledge of evolutionary processes can guide strategies to protect endangered
species and maintain biodiversity.
Extend:
Teaching Strategy: Contextualized Teaching
Instructional Materials: None required
Usecase 1: Students can analyze local species in their community and identify how
these species have adapted to their specific environments, fostering a connection to
their surroundings.
Usecase 2: Students can create a digital presentation on how climate change
impacts various species' adaptations, encouraging them to think critically about
global issues and their effects on evolution.
Assignment:
1. Write a reflection paper on how understanding evolution can influence your daily
life and decisions, incorporating examples from your local community or
environment.
