2.1: Unit 2 Introduction
- Page ID
- 85620
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Unit 2 Introduction:
Evolution is the change in the heritable traits of biological populations over successive generations. Evolutionary processes give rise to diversity at every level of biological organization, including the levels of species, individual organisms, and molecules. The core concepts of evolution are discussed in this unit with examples illustrating evolutionary processes. Additionally, the evolutionary basis of biology is reinforced through embedded media and special call-out features highlighting specific evolution-based topics.
Unit 2 Course Learning Objectives:
By the end of this Unit, you will be able to:
- Discuss the mechanisms of evolution by natural selection.
- Explain our changing view of the evolutionary history of biological diversity.
- Discuss important processes and interactions leading to the structure of natural communities, especially natural selection, population growth, competition, nutrient cycling, and behavioural ecology.
- Think critically about the principles of biology studied
- Communicate your thinking clearly and concisely in speaking and in writing.
Unit 2 Learning Activities (all in Textbook):
Learning Activity Key
|
LR |
Learning Resource (e.g., Reading, Video, Animation, Reflection Questions) |
|
PA |
Practice and Application Activities |
| AA | Assessment Activities |
|
OR |
Optional Resource |
|
OA |
Optional Activity |
Unit 2 Table of Contents:
2.1. Introduction
2.2. Evolution – History, Evidence, and Mechanisms
2.2.1. Understanding Evolution
2.2.2. Evidence of Evolution
2.2.3. Natural Selection and Adaptive Evolution
2.2.4. Additional Mechanisms of Evolution
2.3. The Origin of Species
2.3.1. Species Defined
2.3.2. Speciation
2.3.3. Rates of Speciation and Extinction
2.4. Genes within Populations
2.4.1. Evolution of Genomes
2.4.2. Changes in Allele Frequency
2.G. Glossary
2.S. Summary
Unit 2 Assessments (all in Moodle):
| Assessment | Details | Weight to Course Grade |
| Check-In Questions (CQs) | Five questions will be assigned in Moodle at the end of each of chapters 2.2, 2.3, and 2.4 | All CQs from all Units are worth 5% of your overall course grade |
| Unit 2 Assessment | Case Study and Learning Reflection on Select Practice and Application Activity in Moodle | 15% |
This unit introduces learners to the evidence and mechanisms of evolution, the process of speciation, and the relationship between genes and populations.
This 1.5-minute video highlights the finches that Darwin examined from the Galapagos Islands.
Question after watching: Can you spot the differences between these finches?
Please click on the blue arrow on the right to start Unit 2: Chapter 2.2. If you are on mobile, use the navigation links at the bottom of this page.
Cover Photo: "Darwin's finches" (CC-BY-SA 4.0; Kiwi Rex)