For many K-12 educators, the topic of evolution can be an intimidating one. However, as the foundation of biology, evolution is a crucial subject to address in the science classroom. That’s why the ISP offers educators the resources they need to teach this important topic with confidence.
Below is a round-up of some evolution resources curated by Heather Essig, sixth-grade science and AP biology teacher at Visitation Academy, and current Institute for School Partnership Kirk Teacher Fellow.
GENERAL WEBSITES WITH RESOURCES FOR MULTIPLE LEVELS
Understanding Evolution – by University of California Museum of Paleontology
What did T-Rex taste like? – by National Science Foundation & University of California Museum of Paleontology
California salamander illustration – by University of California Museum of Paleontology
Howard Hughes Medical Institute Biointeractive Evolution Resources – short films, click & learn interactive, virtual labs and other resources.
PBS Nova Evolution Resources – video clips, interactive tutorials, and other resources.
Learn Genetics: Variation + Selection & Time – video tutorials and interactive activities. University of Utah Genetic Science Learning Center
Tree of Life – site will calculate the time that two species have been separated and can be used to create cladograms. Temple University.
What does it mean to be human? – Smithsonian Natural Museum of History
PBS Evolution Series – films are fairly long, but there are helpful animations and tutorials on the site.
Case Studies in Evolution – presentations and interactive games.
National Center for Case Study Teaching in Science – University at Buffalo
Peppered Moths – interactive activity for students
Becoming Human – interactive media
Science Channel Evolution Game
RESOURCES THAT FOCUS MORE ON THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE EVOLUTION
Darwin Online – historical site with copies of original documents
Wallace Online – historical site
American Museum of Natural History Darwin Exhibit
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES FOR EVOLUTION EDUCATION
Evolution and Natural Selection AAAS Science Assessment – questions and data on misconceptions about evolution and natural selection
NSTA Evolution Resources
ENSI/SENSI – many different lesson plans for middle and high school
NABT Evolution Resources
VIDEO (VIEW BEFORE SHOWING TO JUDGE IF APPROPRIATE FOR CLASS)
Evolution Overview (10.48 min)
Evo Devo Sean Carrol (6.00 min)
Greatest Discoveries: Evolution with Bill Nye
HHMI Short Films
Evolution in Action: Salamanders