• [Mechanisms of evolution: Grades 6-8] Evolution results from natural selection acting upon variation within a population. (LS4.B)
• [Mechanisms of evolution: Grades 6-8] There is variation within a population. (LS3.B)
• [Mechanisms of evolution: Grades 6-8] Individual organisms with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and have offspring. (LS4.B, LS4.C)
• [Nature of science: Grades 6-8] Science focuses on natural phenomena and processes. (NOS8)
• [Nature of science: Grades 6-8] A hallmark of science is exposing ideas to testing. (P3, P4, P6, P7)
• [Nature of science: Grades 6-8] Science is a human endeavor. (NOS7)

• Disciplinary Core Idea LS3.B: Variation of Traits
• Disciplinary Core Idea LS4.B: Natural Selection
• Disciplinary Core Idea LS4.C: Adaptation
• NOS Matrix understanding category 7. Science is a human endeavor.
• NOS Matrix understanding category 8. Science addresses questions about the natural and material world.
• Science and Engineering Practice 3. Planning and carrying out investigations
• Science and Engineering Practice 4. Analyzing and interpreting data
• Science and Engineering Practice 6. Constructing explanations and designing solutions
• Science and Engineering Practice 7. Engaging in argument from evidence

Prior to this activity, students should know that seeds germinate to produce the next generation of the plant and that the cotyledon provides both protection and food for the growing plant embryo. Class discussion will help students understand that there may be an advantage to individual variation within populations and that scientists perform experiments to test their ideas.

• Adaptation
• Natural Selection