Knowledge organiser - Evolution and Inheritance - Year 6

The Year 6 curriculum on Evolution and Inheritance equips students with essential vocabulary and key knowledge in understanding the biological principles that govern the diversity of life. Terms such as 'offspring' refer to the young produced by living organisms, highlighting the fact that while offspring are of the same species as their parents, they are not usually identical, a concept known as 'inheritance'. 'Adaptation' describes the process by which species undergo changes to better fit their environments, a fundamental aspect of survival and evolution. 'Evolution' itself is the overarching theory explaining how different species have emerged and developed from earlier forms over time.

Students delve into the role of 'palaeontologists', scientists who study ancient life through fossils, providing insights into the Earth's biological history. The term 'genotype' is introduced, referring to the specific genetic makeup of an individual, which plays a crucial role in inheritance. As part of their key knowledge, pupils will learn how species have evolved over time, the significance of fossils in understanding past life, and the reasons for variations in offspring. They will also explore how adaptation can lead to evolution, acknowledging the intricate relationship between an organism and its environment. This knowledge organiser serves as a foundation for understanding the complex processes of evolution and inheritance that have shaped the natural world.