Evolution Practice Test

What is the primary mechanism by which evolution occurs according to Charles Darwin (a.k.a. "SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST")?

• Genetic Drift

• Natural Selection

• Mutation

• Gene Flow

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following best describes an adaptation?

• A sudden change in an organism's DNA

• A trait that increases an organism's chance of survival and reproduction

• A random fluctuation in allele frequencies

• A process by which new species are formed

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DOK Level 1: Recall

What term is used to describe the formation of new and distinct species in the course of evolution?

• Adaptation

• Speciation

• Natural Selection

• Genetic Drift

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following is an example of a homologous structure?

• Wings of a bat and wings of a butterfly

• Flippers of a dolphin and hands of a human

• Eyes of a human and eyes of a squid

• Beaks of different species of finches

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DOK Level 1: Recall

What does the fossil record provide evidence for?

• The existence of life on other planets

• The gradual change of species over time & evidence for mass extinctions

• The immediate creation of all species

• The constancy of species over time

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following best describes genetic variation?

• Differences in DNA sequences among individuals

• The process by which organisms become better suited to their environment

• The formation of new species

• The fossilization of ancient organisms

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DOK Level 1: Recall

How does natural selection lead to adaptation in a population?

• By increasing the allele frequency of beneficial traits

• By decreasing the genetic variation

• By causing random mutations

• By creating new species

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Explain why homologous structures are important.

• They show how different species can develop similar traits independently.

• They indicate that different species have a common ancestor.

• They demonstrate the process of natural selection.

• They reveal the genetic variation within a population.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Describe the role of genetic variation in the process of natural selection.

• It provides the raw material for evolution by creating differences among individuals.

• It ensures that all individuals in a population are identical.

• It eliminates less fit individuals from the population.

• It causes the formation of new species.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Analyze how different behaviors & geographical changes lead to speciation.

• Cause immediate genetic mutations in a population.

• Species don't recognize or respond to other mating behaviors & physical barriers can lead to isolation.

• Eliminate all genetic variation in a population.

• Result in the fossilization of organisms.

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking