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Adaptation: The case of penguins

Grade Level(s):

  • 9-12
  • General

Source:

  • Visionlearning

Resource type:

  • Article

Time: 20 minutes

Overview

The process of natural selection produces stunning adaptations. Learn about the history of this concept, while you explore the incredible adaptations that penguins have evolved, allowing them to survive and reproduce in a climate that reaches -60°C!

This article appears at Visionlearning.

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  • [Evidence of evolution: Grades 9-12] There is a fit between organisms and their environments, though not always a perfect fit. (LS4.C)
  • [Mechanisms of evolution: Grades 9-12] Inherited characteristics affect the likelihood of an organism's survival and reproduction. (LS4.B, LS4.C)
  • [Mechanisms of evolution: Grades 9-12] Traits that confer an advantage may persist in the population and are called adaptations. (LS4.B, LS4.C)
  • [Nature of science: Grades 9-12] Science is a human endeavor. (NOS7)
  • Disciplinary Core Idea LS4.B: Natural Selection
  • Disciplinary Core Idea LS4.C: Adaptation
  • NOS Matrix understanding category 7. Science is a human endeavor.

This article uses a charismatic animal, the penguin, to explain the concept of adaptation. Student learning can be enhanced by class discussion.