What do we mean by evolution and inheritance - teacher's notes

Evolution and inheritance are fundamental concepts in the study of biology, shaping our understanding of how life on Earth has developed and continues to change over time. Inheritance refers to the process by which genetic information is passed down from parents to their offspring. This genetic material, found within genes and DNA, determines a wide range of characteristics and traits that can be observed in living organisms. Pupils are encouraged to explore these concepts further by watching educational videos and writing their own definitions for each term.

Evolution, on the other hand, is the gradual process through which species of living organisms undergo change and development over generations, often leading to the emergence of new species. This transformation is driven by natural selection, where advantageous traits become more common in a population. Teachers will guide pupils to consider how both evolution and inheritance might play a role in the occurrence of illnesses, and to research these processes using various prompts. Additionally, pupils will examine the relationships and distinctions between apes, monkeys, and other primates, as well as construct a timeline illustrating the pivotal changes in human evolution. Group work will focus on understanding genes, DNA, and the insights provided by fossils, enhancing students' comprehension of how living things on Earth have evolved over time.