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Grade 6-8
16m

Natural Selection and Adaptations: Peppered Moth Experiment

by Payton M. | Science

Learning Standards: MS.LS4.6 MS.LS4.6;
4 Lessons 16:17
  1. 1. Background on peppered moths 3:34
  2. 2. Setup and Hypothesis 6:07
  3. 3. Explanation and Folding Demonstration 2:45
  4. 4. Moth experiment and conclusions 3:51

Grade 6-8

16m

NGSS Standards


About the course

"Break down the process and learn about how peppered moths evolved to have darker coloring during the Industrial Revolution. Act as field researcher and experience the effects of natural camouflage on the fitness of a species.

Examine the process of natural selection and how evolution plays a role in marginalizing endangered animals."

Project

Moth Game

Course overview

1

Background on peppered moths

Students will learn the backstory of the changes made in moth physiology in Britain as a result of the industrial revolution.

2

Setup and Hypothesis

Gather the materials needed for our activity, follow along as I fold origami moths, and make a hypothesis as to which color of moth is best suited.

3

Explanation and Folding Demonstration

Perform experiment to test hypothesis on which moth is best suited for one's environment.

4

Moth experiment and conclusions

Students will compare their findings with their hypothesis. Which colored moth was best suited for survival in the environment?

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Tags:

  • adaptation
  • Climate
  • Endangered Species
  • Evolution
  • Natural Selection

Recommended Materials

"For the short form experiment: black paper, white paper, tape

For the long form experiment: a variety of colored papers, matching the pallet of their home, garden, or classroom environment. Tape.

For either version of the experiment, fold 5-10 moths of each color.

They will need at least one other scientist to experiment on"


Instructor

Payton is a composer and orchestrator who recently graduated with High Honors in music from Wesleyan University. His passion for environmental advocacy, education, and activism is spurred by a love of nature and burning hate for climate change denialism.

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