This introduction covers The Story: The Survival of the Fittest within Evolution for GCSE Biology. Theory of evolution, natural selection, and evidence for evolution It is section 1 of 15 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
The Story: The Survival of the Fittest
Charles Darwin spent 5 years on HMS Beagle, observing nature. He noticed that individuals vary, and those with advantages survive better and reproduce more. Over generations, this leads to evolution — gradual change in species. His idea was controversial in 1859 but is now the foundation of biology!
Practice questions for Evolution
What is evolution?
Describe three pieces of evidence that support Darwin's theory of evolution.
Quick recall flashcards
What is evolution?
The gradual change in the inherited characteristics of a population over many generations through the process of natural selection. It can lead to new species forming over very long time periods.
What did Charles Darwin propose and when?
In 1859, Darwin published 'On the Origin of Species', proposing that all species evolve through natural selection. Individuals with advantageous characteristics are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on those traits to offspring.