MS-LS4-4 - Performance Expectation

Construct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment.

Middle School · Next Generation Science Standards · NGSS Lead States 2013

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Vocabulary
explanationevidencegenetic variationstraitspopulationindividualsprobabilitysurvivingreproducingenvironment
Skills
  • construct (an explanation based on evidence) #dok3
  • describe (how genetic variations increase survival and reproduction) #dok2
  • analyze (the relationship between genetic variations and probability of survival) #dok3
  • identify (genetic variations of traits in a population) #dok1
  • explain (the role of environment in survival and reproduction) #dok2
Learning Targets
  • I can identify genetic variations of traits in a population. #dok1
  • I can explain how genetic variations of traits can increase an individual's probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment. #dok2
  • I can describe how different traits affect survival chances in various environments. #dok2
  • I can construct an explanation based on evidence that genetic variation increases some individuals’ probability of survival and reproduction. #dok3
  • I can analyze information about populations to determine how variation impacts survival and reproduction. #dok3
Big Ideas
  • Genetic variations within a population influence the likelihood that some individuals will survive and reproduce in a given environment.
  • Changes in environmental conditions can affect which genetic traits are advantageous, thereby influencing the makeup of future populations.
Essential Questions
  • How do genetic variations within a population impact survival and reproduction rates?
  • What environmental factors influence whether a genetic trait is beneficial?
  • Why might some individuals in a population have a higher probability of survival than others?
  • How can evidence support the claim that genetic variation affects survival and reproduction?
  • How do changes in environment alter which traits are considered advantageous?