Here's the completed worksheet with correct terms from the word bank, along with explanations for each:
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1. The theory that species change over time: _evolution_
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Explanation: Evolution is the scientific theory that explains how species change over generations through processes like natural selection and genetic drift.
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2. The offspring of two different species, such as a liger: _hybrid_
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Explanation: A hybrid is the offspring resulting from breeding between two different species or genetically distinct populations (e.g., lion + tiger = liger).
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3. Refers to the number of individuals in a population with a trait: _frequency_
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Explanation: Trait frequency refers to how common a particular trait (or allele) is within a population — often expressed as a percentage or proportion.
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4. The process by which evolution occurs; natural _selection_
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Explanation: Natural selection is the mechanism of evolution where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and pass on their genes.
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5. Refers to differences in individuals in a population, like light versus dark mice: _variation_
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Explanation: Variation refers to the differences among individuals in a population — these can be physical, behavioral, or genetic (like fur color in mice).
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6. Refers to how traits are passed from parents to offspring: _inheritance_
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Explanation: Inheritance is the transmission of genetic traits from parents to offspring through DNA.
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7. Traits that help organisms survive and reproduce: _adaptations_
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Explanation: Adaptations are inherited traits that enhance an organism’s ability to survive and reproduce in its environment (e.g., camouflage, beak shape).
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8. Process by which humans create organisms with desirable traits: _artificial_ selection
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Explanation: Artificial selection is when humans selectively breed plants or animals for desired traits (e.g., dog breeds, crop varieties).
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9. The idea that each living species descended from other species: common _descent_
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Explanation: Common descent is the concept that all living organisms share ancestors and have evolved from earlier forms over time.
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10. A diagram that shows features common to groups or populations: _cladogram_
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Explanation: A cladogram is a branching diagram used in phylogenetics to show evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics among species or groups.
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11. The formation of new species: _speciation_
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Explanation: Speciation is the evolutionary process by which new biological species arise, typically due to reproductive isolation and genetic divergence.
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✔ Final Answer Key:
1. evolution
2. hybrid
3. frequency
4. selection
5. variation
6. inheritance
7. adaptations
8. artificial
9. descent
10. cladogram
11. speciation
Let me know if you’d like a visual diagram or further clarification on any term!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of evolution worksheets.
