Theory of Evolution Lesson Plans

Students make a comparative timeline of events in world history and in the history of evolutionary theory. They determine where the theory of evolution falls in the history of scientific thought.

Students explore the concept of theories in science while examining the theory of evolution. They conduct research and participate in a discussion about current issues in science culminating in the creation of question and answer pamphlets.

Students research the history of the theory of evolution and make a comparative timeline of events in world history and in the history of evolutionary theory.

Learners investigate Charles Darwin and his contributions to evolutionary science.  In this theory of evolution lesson students create a timeline of events and examine scientific advances that contributed to evolutionary science. 

Students discuss controversies about evolution they are familiar with as well as the basic principles behind the theory of evolution. The notion of intelligent design is introduced and discussed before they begin research about the history of the response to the theory of evolution. An essay is written based on their research and intelligent design.

Students read parts of Charles Darwin's journal about the Galapagos Islands and study images that accompany those passages in an Internet based activity. They investigate the effect these islands had on Darwin's Theory of Evolution.

Students discuss the discovery of a transitional animal, Tiktaalik, and its impact on the theory of evolution. They research theories of evolution and creationism.

Students read and analyze an obituary written for Charles Darwin. They are already familiar with Darwin and the theory of evolution. This is an introduction to evolution, or in fact, an introduction to biology.

Students analyze 5 separate theories of evolution in order to help them explain the different meanings of theory, how human values influence science, and that the scientific view of the origin of life does not involve supernatural forces.

Learners research Charles Darwin and the process he used to develop his theory of evolution. They keep a journal about the skill of observation and make a newspaper of their learning.