High School (SCI) Life Science Standards
[LS4] Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity
Construct an explanation based on evidence that the process of biological
evolution primarily results from four factors:
(1) the potential for a species to
increase in number,
(2) the heritable genetic variation of individuals in a species
due to mutation and sexual reproduction,
(3) competition for limited resources,
and
(4) the proliferation of those organisms that are better able to survive and
reproduce in the environment.
Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on using evidence to explain the influence each of the four factors has on the number of
organisms, behaviors, morphology, or physiology in terms of ability to compete for limited resources and
subsequent survival of individuals and adaptation of species. Examples of evidence could include
mathematical models such as simple distribution graphs and proportional reasoning. Disciplinary Core Ideas LS4.B: Natural Selection
-Natural selection occurs only if there is both (1)
variation in the genetic information between
organisms in a population and (2) variation in the
expression of that genetic information — that is,
trait variation — that leads to differences in
performance among individuals. LS4.C: Adaptation
-Evolution is a consequence of the interaction of
four factors: (1) Variations, (2) Overpopulation, (3)
Adaptations, (4) Descent with modification.
Student Learning Targets:
Knowledge Targets
I can verify the existence of certain species.
I can identify the formation of new specie.
Reasoning Targets
I can
Skills (Performance) Targets
I can produce a diagram that tracks the genetic characteristics of a species.
Product Targets
I can
Proficiency Scale
The Student can ...
1 Beginning
... with help, demonstrate a partial understanding of some of the simpler details and processes (Score 2.0 content) and some of the more complex ideas and processes (Score 3.0 content).
descriptors
2 Developing
... demonstrate no major errors or omissions regarding the simpler details and processes but exhibits major errors or omissions regarding the more complex ideas and processes (Score 3.0 content).
descriptors
3 Proficient
“The Standard.” ... demonstrate no major errors or omissions regarding any of the information and processes that were end of instruction expectations.
descriptors
4 Advanced
... demonstrate in-depth inferences and applications regarding more complex material that go beyond end of instruction expectations.
descriptors
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High School (SCI) Life Science Standards