One billion is one thousand million (1 000 000 000).

One thousand (1000) is equal to 10 × 10 × 10.

One million is one thousand thousand (1 000 000).

The characteristics of species gradually change over time, sometimes forming new species. This process is called evolution.

Extinction is the permanent loss of a species.

Understanding time scales

Science

Fossils show that species change over time

Adaptations

Competition

Heritable variation

Natural selection

A model of natural selection

Evolution

Pupils will learn that the fossil record provides evidence of evolution from common ancestors through transitional species to modern species, and that the theory of evolution by natural selection can be used to explain phenotypic changes in populations of species over generations.

Pupils learned that variation (differences in the features of individuals of the same species) can be caused by environmental and genetic factors.

This unit explores variation within and between species, competition, and natural selection. It focuses on asking questions, making predictions, planning scientific enquiries, and testing hypotheses. It also covers analysing results, explaining findings, and identifying new questions that arise.

Adaptations, competition, natural selection and evolution

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

What is the correct way to write one million?

What name is given to the number 1 000 000 000?

After studying the ages of rocks, when do scientists think the Earth was formed?

Starting with the earliest, put these events in the order they occurred.

For how much of the Earth’s history have humans existed?

Which of the numbers below represents one million?

What is the name of the planet upon which we all live?

Which of these things could **not** become a fossil?

the mineralised remains of a living organism

Understanding time scales

Lesson outcome

Content guidance