Evolutionary experiments are usually difficult to perform in the classroom because of the large sizes and long timescales of experiments testing evolutionary hypotheses. Computer applications give students a window to observe evolution in action, allowing them to gain comfort with the process of natural selection and facilitating inquiry experimentation. The lesson described here uses a free online program, BoxCar2D, to demonstrate evolution by natural selection in a virtual population of cars. Students will be introduced to the principles of evolution and conduct independent inquiry projects on key predictions from evolution — including convergence, local adaptation, and the role of mutation in adaptation.
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1 April 2014
Evolving Better Cars: Teaching Evolution by Natural Selection with a Digital Inquiry Activity
Anne M. Royer,
Elizabeth H. Schultheis
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The American Biology Teacher
Vol. 76 • No. 4
April 2014
Vol. 76 • No. 4
April 2014
evolution
Inquiry
NATURAL SELECTION
scientific method.