Variation (differences within species)
Downloads can take a few minutes, especially for larger files or slower connections.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Species and classification (differences between species), where they examined how species differ and the role of classification. It deepens their understanding by exploring variations within species, highlighting how individual differences contribute to diversity. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Adaptations, competition, natural selection and evolution, where they will apply their knowledge to understand how variation drives adaptation and evolution, shaping how species survive and thrive in their environments.
Prior knowledge requirements
- [Y6] Living things produce offspring of the same kind, but normally offspring vary and are not identical to their parents.
- Impacts of diet, exercise and lifestyle on the body.
- Heredity as the process by which genetic information is transmitted from one generation to the next.
- A simple model of chromosomes, genes and DNA in heredity.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Species and classification (differences between species), where they examined how species differ and the role of classification. It deepens their understanding by exploring variations within species, highlighting how individual differences contribute to diversity. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Adaptations, competition, natural selection and evolution, where they will apply their knowledge to understand how variation drives adaptation and evolution, shaping how species survive and thrive in their environments.
Prior knowledge requirements
- [Y6] Living things produce offspring of the same kind, but normally offspring vary and are not identical to their parents.
- Impacts of diet, exercise and lifestyle on the body.
- Heredity as the process by which genetic information is transmitted from one generation to the next.
- A simple model of chromosomes, genes and DNA in heredity.
Biology
Variation (differences within species)
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.
5 lessons in unit
slide decks, worksheet PDFs, quizzes and lesson overviews. You can select individual lessons from the Variation (differences within species) unit and download the resources you need, or download the entire unit now. See every unit listed in our secondary science curriculum and discover more of our teaching resources for secondary science programmes.