Introduction to Evolution Grades 6-8

Introduction to Evolution

For children entering grades 6–8

Evolution is the force that has shaped how every animal on the planet, including you, exists. This course will delve into the basics of evolution covering simple genetics, mutations, natural selection, competition, the uniqueness of island evolution, the time scale of evolution, and the tumultuous history of the study of evolution. To aid in the studying of this topic, the class will utilize visuals, videos, and interactive activities. One of these activities will be an interactive game where students attempt to create an optimal animal for survival and if they are interested can have their animals compete. Furthermore, at the beginning of the first week, each student will pick their favorite animal and the next week of the course will briefly explore the evolutionary history of their respective animals. Finally, the last class will focus on the ideas of conservation, human impact, and global warming’s impacts on animals.

Session II: July 1–July 12

Late Mornings: 10:25 a.m.–12:25 p.m.

Instructor: Alexander Costle-Tyler