Activity: Investigating the Impact of Learned Behavior on Species Survival

Topic: Body Systems and Cells - Speciation

Desired Outcome: Through investigation, students will explain how changes in learned behavior due to internal and external stimuli are beneficial for the survival of species.

Suitable for: Fourth Level (Scottish Curriculum)

Introduction: 1. Begin the activity by discussing the concept of speciation and its importance in the survival of species. 2. Explain that learned behaviors play a crucial role in the adaptation and survival of species. 3. Introduce the idea that changes in learned behavior can occur due to internal and external stimuli. 4. Emphasize the significance of investigating and understanding these changes for the survival of species.

Activity Steps:

Step 1: Research and Presentation 1. Divide students into small groups and assign each group a specific species to research. 2. Instruct students to investigate the learned behaviors of their assigned species and identify any changes in behavior due to internal and external stimuli. 3. Encourage students to use a variety of resources such as books, websites, and scientific journals to gather information. 4. Provide a timeline for research and preparation of a presentation.

Step 2: Presentation and Discussion 1. Each group presents their findings to the class, focusing on the changes in learned behavior due to internal and external stimuli. 2. After each presentation, facilitate a class discussion to explore the benefits of these changes for the survival of the species. 3. Encourage students to ask questions and engage in critical thinking about the presented information.

Step 3: Case Study Analysis 1. Provide students with a case study of a species that has undergone speciation due to changes in learned behavior. 2. In small groups, students analyze the case study and discuss the impact of these changes on the survival of the species. 3. Students should identify specific examples of how the changes in learned behavior have provided an advantage for the species in terms of survival, reproduction, and adaptation.

Step 4: Reflection and Conclusion 1. Ask students to reflect on the importance of learned behavior in the context of speciation and species survival. 2. Facilitate a class discussion where students share their reflections and insights. 3. Summarize the key points discussed and emphasize the significance of investigating and understanding changes in learned behavior for the survival of species.

Extension Activity: For further exploration, students can conduct additional research on other species that have undergone speciation due to changes in learned behavior. They can create a poster or a digital presentation showcasing their findings and present it to the class.

Assessment: Assessment can be conducted through observation of group discussions, presentations, and active participation in class discussions. Additionally, students can be asked to write a reflective essay summarizing their understanding of how changes in learned behavior benefit the survival of species.