Variation which can take any one of many values over a continuous range.

A graph displaying continuous data plotted as points joined with a line.

A graph displaying continuous data grouped into ranges and plotted as columns that touch.

Factors in an organism’s surroundings that influence its features.

Related to the genetic material (DNA) and genes that an individual has.

Continuous variation: data handling and analysis

Science

Reproduction and variation

Variation within species

Continuous and discontinuous variation: practical

Discontinuous variation: data handling and analysis

Pupils will learn that variation between individuals of the same species means some individuals are better adapted to compete, which can lead to natural selection and cause the heritable characteristics of a species to change (evolve) over generations.

Pupils learned that organisms can be identified and classified into hierarchical groups based upon similarities and differences in their characteristics at the macroscopic and cellular levels.

This unit examines variation within species, both continuous and discontinuous, using measurements and graphical representations. It also emphasises objectivity, accuracy, precision, and repeatability in investigations, the use of appropriate techniques, and the effective presentation of data.

Variation (differences within species)

How many students have a height that is in the range of 160 to 169 cm?

Which type of graph has this data been displayed in?

columns that do not touch, representing separate categories.

columns that touch, representing a continuous numerical range.

Match each type of graph to its correct feature.

Three students had a height in the range 120 to 139 cm.

There were no students taller than 180 cm.

There were no students taller than 110 cm.

The range with the most individuals in it was 150 – 159 cm.

Which of the following conclusions could be drawn from the histgram shown?

neither genetic factors nor environmental factors

Data for the height of oak trees shows continuous variation. Which type of factors are likely to influence the height of an oak tree?

Which two pieces of equipment should you use when drawing a graph?

How many students in this class can only roll their tongue into a straw shape?

How many students in this class cannot roll their tongue?

The peas produced by pea plants can either be smooth or wrinkled. This is an example of {{}} variation.

Data for discontinuous variation should always be plotted on a ...

The category with the fewest individuals in it was “cannot roll tongue".

The most common variation was the ability to roll tongue into a straw shape.

Tongue rolling is an example of continuous variation.

Which two of the statements below are conclusions that could be drawn from the data in the bar chart?

Continuous variation: data handling and analysis

Lesson outcome