Variation within species
I can describe examples of variation between individuals of the same species and explain what causes this variation.
Variation within species
I can describe examples of variation between individuals of the same species and explain what causes this variation.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Differences between species are greater than differences within species.
- There are differences in the features of individuals of the same species, and this is called variation.
- Some variation is caused only by the environment (e.g. injuries).
- Some variation is caused only by inherited genetic information in the genome (e.g. blood type).
- Some variation results from a combination of genetic and environmental/lifestyle factors (e.g. body mass).
Keywords
Species - a group of organisms that can reproduce to produce fertile offspring
Variation - differences between members of the same species
Environment - the external space around an organism that influences it
Lifestyle - the choices an individual makes as to how they live their life
Genetic - related to the genetic material (DNA) and genes that an individual has
Common misconception
All members of a species (especially non-human species) look exactly the same.
The lesson explores examples of variation between members of the same species, and causes of these variations.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.True or false? A tattoo can be inherited.
Q2.True or false? Variation can be passed on to offspring if it is only caused by genetics.
Q3.Which statement about members of the same species is correct?
Q4.Which scientific word is used to refer to differences between organisms of the same species?
Q5.Which factors will cause variation between animals of the same species?
Q6.Which statement about baby orangutans is true?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A broken bone is an example of variation caused by …
Q2.__________ of the animal’s features are caused by genetic information in its cells.
Q3.Dimples in cheeks are an example of variation caused only by …
Q4.True or false? There are more differences between organisms of the same species than there are between organisms of different species.
Q5.Which student has the correct definition of a species?
Q6.Match the type of variation with its description.
caused by instructions in genes
caused by external factors like food availability and sunlight
caused by choices made by the organism