Rates of Change

Match the following terms with their descriptions.

• A theory that species evolve during short periods of rapid change.

• Natural selection

• A change in the DNA sequence of an organism.

• Punctuated equilibrium

• The process by which organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

• Gradualism

• The slow and steady change in species over time.

• Mutation

Answer explanation

Gradualism refers to the slow and steady change in species over time, contrasting with punctuated equilibrium, which suggests rapid changes followed by periods of stability. Thus, gradualism is the correct term for this process.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following is an example of evidence for evolution?

• Fossil record

• Weather patterns

• Ocean currents

• Rock formations

Answer explanation

The fossil record provides physical evidence of past life forms and their changes over time, supporting the theory of evolution. In contrast, weather patterns, ocean currents, and rock formations do not directly demonstrate evolutionary processes.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Explain how the fossil record supports the theory of evolution.

• It shows that all species appeared at the same time.

• It provides evidence of gradual changes in species over time.

• It indicates that species do not change over time.

• It shows that species are unrelated.

Answer explanation

The fossil record provides evidence of gradual changes in species over time, showing how organisms have evolved and adapted. This supports the theory of evolution by illustrating the process of natural selection and speciation.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which concept explains the sudden appearance of new species in the fossil record?

• Gradualism

• Natural selection

• Abrupt appearance

• Genetic drift

Answer explanation

The concept of 'Abrupt appearance' explains the sudden emergence of new species in the fossil record, contrasting with gradualism, which suggests slow changes over time. This concept highlights the rapid appearance of distinct species.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Describe the concept of stasis in the context of the fossil record.

• It refers to the rapid evolution of species.

• It indicates a period of little or no evolutionary change.

• It shows the extinction of species.

• It represents the formation of new species.

Answer explanation

In the context of the fossil record, stasis refers to a period of little or no evolutionary change in species, indicating stability over time rather than rapid evolution or extinction.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Which of the following best describes punctuated equilibrium?

• Evolution occurs at a constant, slow pace.

• Evolution is marked by long periods of stability interrupted by brief periods of rapid change.

• Evolution is driven solely by natural selection.

• Evolution occurs only in isolated populations.

Answer explanation

Punctuated equilibrium describes evolution as having long periods of stability, with brief, rapid changes occurring at intervals. This contrasts with the idea of constant, slow evolution, making the second choice the correct one.

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DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Match the following evolutionary concepts with their descriptions.

• One theory involves slow, steady change; the other involves quick shifts and long periods of stability.

• Both suggest that species do not change over time.

• Evolutionary change is consistent and unvarying.

• Gradualism suggests rapid change, while punctuated equilibrium suggests slow change.

• One theory involves quick changes; the other involves gradual shifts.

• Both suggest that evolution occurs at a constant rate.

• Neither theory supports the idea of species evolution.

• Gradualism suggests slow change, while punctuated equilibrium suggests rapid change followed by stability.

Answer explanation

Gradualism posits that evolution occurs slowly over time, while punctuated equilibrium suggests that species experience rapid changes followed by long periods of stability. This distinction highlights the correct choice.

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking

What is the primary mechanism by which evolution occurs according to Darwin's theory?

• Genetic drift

• Natural selection

• Mutation

• Gene flow

Answer explanation

According to Darwin's theory, natural selection is the primary mechanism of evolution. It explains how individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the gradual evolution of species.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Identify the type of evidence that supports the idea of common ancestry among species.

• Similar DNA sequences

• Different habitats

• Unique behaviors

• Varied diets

Answer explanation

Similar DNA sequences provide strong evidence for common ancestry, as they indicate that species share a genetic heritage. In contrast, different habitats, unique behaviors, and varied diets do not directly support the idea of common ancestry.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Evaluate the role of mutations in the process of evolution.

• Mutations always lead to harmful effects.

• Mutations provide genetic variation that can be acted upon by natural selection.

• Mutations prevent evolutionary change.

• Mutations are the sole cause of evolution.

Answer explanation

Mutations introduce genetic variation, which is essential for natural selection to occur. This variation can lead to adaptations that enhance survival and reproduction, making the correct choice that mutations provide genetic variation.

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DOK Level 3: Strategic Thinking