Question

The process of evolution involves changes in the genetic makeup of a population over a period of time. Sexual reproduction enhances variability among offspring. The production of the new genetic material results from alterations in the DNA of a developing organism. This random alteration of DNA from parent to offspring (called mutations) produces variable characteristics in offspring. These mutations are not related to the present needs of an organism but are merely the result of chance. As a result of mutations, some organisms in a population will have a set of genes that are better suited to the current environmental conditions. These organisms will have a better chance of surviving and reproducing offspring.

Unfortunately, not all mutations are helpful. Some alterations of DNA result in characteristics that harm the organism or do not affect it at all. A lizard’s ability to change color is an example of a beneficial mutation that was retained and passed on to future generations. A fawn born without camouflage markings as the result of a mutation will probably not survive because of its inability to hide from predators. Such harmful mutations do not remain in the population long enough to be passed on to future offspring.

The characteristics caused by mutations that are retained and passed on to future offspring are called adaptations. These adaptations can be structural, physiological or behavioral.
Why do organisms adapt? The bottom line is this law of the universe: survive to reproduce.

Today we will be looking at to traits of an organism: sight and appendages. Both factor heavily into the organisms food-getting abilities. No food – no survival.

Materials
• 15 paper-wrapped candies per group of three students
• One cup (per group of three students)
• Plastic knives
• Lab goggles
• Cotton
• Duct tape
• Stop watch
Procedure
• One student per group will draw a letter, A – H, to determine the mutation present.
• Each group member will, using the materials supplied, modify their appearance to reflect their mutation.
• Once all students are ready, the teacher will direct them to the food source.
• One member of the group will start the timer.
• The teacher will announce “start” and the organisms will search for food, 15 candies per group.
• The candies will be stored in the cup.
• Once all 15 candies have been saved to the cup, the group will move to their designated table and each group member will open and consume 5 candies.
• Once all the candies have been eaten, the timer should be stopped.
• The total time for the food gathering and eating should be recorded on the board for future class discussion.

The code for normal hand with normal digits (5 digits w/ opposable thumbs) is AUGGGCUUAUAC
The code for normal vision is CCCGGGAUAUCG


Given the results of the experiment, is there a more advantageous mutation the organisms can have or does being normal provide the greatest advantage to survival?
in 7th grade terms
5 sentences

Answer 1

In the experiment, we looked at how different mutations affect an organism's ability to gather food and survive. Some mutations might help, like having better vision or useful appendages, while others could make it hard to find food. For example, if an organism has normal hands and normal vision, it may have the best chance of getting the candies quickly. Other mutations might not help as much and could slow down food gathering. Overall, being normal often provides the greatest advantage because it helps the organism survive and reproduce better.