MCAS ReviewEvolution

Lynn English High SchoolMs. Mezzetti

MA Standard 5: Evolution and BiodiversityCentral Concepts: Evolution is the result of genetic changes that occur in constantly changing environments. Over many generations, changes in the genetic make-up of populations may affect biodiversity through speciation and extinction.

5.1 Explain how evolution is demonstrated by evidence from the fossil record, comparative anatomy, genetics, molecular biology, and examples of natural selection.

• Fossils: Remains of plants and animals embedded in rock.

• The Fossil record shows definite changes over time

5.1 Evidence for evolutionComparative Anatomy

• In organisms, analogous structures are similar in function but have different evolutionary origins.

• Homologous structures have a common evolutionary origin.

Homologous

Analogous

Genetic variation contributes to evolution

Molecular biology: Scientists today study proteins and molecules such as DNA to find evolutionary relationships

Examples of Natural Selection

5.2 Describe species as reproductively distinct groups of organisms.

Species: An individual belonging to a group of organisms are capable of mating with one another to produce fertile offspring.

5.2: Recognize that species are further classified into a hierarchical taxonomic system based on morphological, behavioral, and molecular similarities.

5.3: Describe the role that geographic isolation can play in speciation.

Geographic isolation is a term that refers to a population of animals, plants, or other organisms that are separated from exchanging genetic material with other organisms of the same species

5.3: Explain how evolution through natural selection can result in changes in biodiversity through the increase or decrease of genetic diversity within a population.