PowerPoint Presentation

MCAS ReviewEvolution

Lynn English High SchoolMs. Mezzetti

MA Standard 5: Evolution and Biodiversity

Central 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 time5.1 Evidence for evolutionComparative AnatomyIn 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 species5.3: Explain how evolution through natural selection can result in changes in biodiversity through the increase or decrease of genetic diversity within a population.