Science Education Idea Exchange

 I stumbled upon these free simulations from ASU while looking for another activity I had used in the past. I am so glad! The simulation demonstrates how natural selection leads to the evolution of peppered moths. Students can choose to have a light-colored or dark-colored tree. They take on the role of birds hunting for the moths. The simulation has a timer and graphs the outcomes of the moths the students find. It is simple and easy to use and requires no prep work. I would use it alongside a worksheet, or have students generate questions to kickoff a unit on evolution.

 I was reminiscing the other day about activities I loved. One that came to mind was a pom-pom natural selection activity I did with my students. I found it! Two educators from the University of Pennsylvania created this worksheet . My favorite part was the simulation. I think my students would have agreed. They actively gathered data on different types of predators and adaptations of the prey. I didn't follow the directions to a tee, but the point was made. Photo by Eliza Diamond on Unsplash Check out this free online resource!