1. Learning Objectives
Describe the pattern Darwin observed among organisms of the Galapagos islands

2. Evolution and Biodiversity

3. Why do we have a variety of life forms?

4. Theory of
Evolution

5. Essential Questions What is evolution?
How has evolution lead to the current diversity of organisms?

6. Evolution = Change over time

7. Evolution - the process by which modern organisms have descended from ancient organisms.

8. Theory
Theory - a well supported testable explanation of phenomena that have occurred in the natural world.

9. Charles Darwin English Naturalist
Traveled around the world on the HMS Beagle
Observed many species and fossils

10. Voyage of the HMS Beagle
During his travels, Darwin made numerous observations and collected evidence that led him to propose the Theory of Evolution

11. Darwin’s Observations
Darwin noticed patterns of diversity amongst the plants and animals he observed during his travels.

12. Darwin’s Observations
Darwin noticed that many plants and animals were well suited to the environment they inhabited.
Isabela island tortoises had a short neck to reach lower vegetation
Hood island tortoises had a long neck to reach higher sparse vegetation

13. Darwin’s Observations
Darwin noticed small brown birds from different islands with differently shaped beaks

14. Darwin’s Observations
Darwin collected fossils, the preserved remains of ancient organisms.

15. Darwin’s Journey Home
While heading home, Darwin thought about his findings and wondered if the animals living in the different places he visited were once members of the same family.

16. Stop Here