The Fossil Record and Evolution

What You'll Learn

The fossil record provides evidence for evolution by showing how organisms have changed over time. Transitional fossils show features of both ancestral and descendant species.

Key Words

dominant
recessive
mutation

Materials Needed

iodine stain
paper
colored pencils
coins (for Punnett squares)
tape
index cards

Safety First

Wash hands after handling materials.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Study the diagram and label the parts you recognize.

Step 2 — Do

Extract DNA from a strawberry using dish soap, salt, water, and rubbing alcohol. Observe the stringy white substance—that's DNA!

Step 3 — Observe

Use your senses (except taste) to describe what you notice.

Step 4 — Record

Write a summary of your findings in 3-5 sentences.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What provides evidence for evolution?