Construct an explanation based on evidence that describes how genetic variations of traits in a population increase some individuals’ probability of surviving and reproducing in a specific environment. MS-LS4-4
Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on using simple probability statements and proportional reasoning to construct explanations.
Assessment Boundary: none
Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Constructing explanations and designing solutions in 6–8 builds on K–5 experiences and progresses to include constructing explanations and designing solutions supported by multiple sources of evidence consistent with scientific ideas, principles, and theories.
Construct an explanation that includes qualitative or quantitative relationships between variables that describe phenomena. (MS-LS4-4)
LS4.B: Natural Selection
Natural selection leads to the predominance of certain traits in a population, and the suppression of others. (MS-LS4-4)
Cause and Effect
Phenomena may have more than one cause, and some cause and effect relationships in systems can only be described using probability. (MS-LS4-4)