Evolution
Where can I find information about evolution?
(Years 7-10)
Image: [no title] by aitoff on Pixabay.
Entry last updated: 26/05/22
Introduction
Evolution is a scientific theory used by biologist to explain how living things have changed over a long period of time. Charles Darwin, a British naturalist, geologist and biologist was the first to introduce the theory of evolution in his book 'On the Origin of Species' published in 1858.
What is evolution?
Charles Darwin believed that all species of life have descended over time from common ancestors. The websites below have more about the theory of evolution, types of evolution, evidence of evolution, evolution clarification and other related information on evolution.
Britannica School is part of EPIC, a collection of reliable databases covering lots of different topics. It’s put together especially for New Zealand school students and helps to answer questions like this.
- Select the middle level and type search words 'evolution' into the search box.
- Explore the link evolution (scientific theory) to find out more about the origin of life, and how natural selection directs evolution.
- The link human origins is about how modern humans have evolved.
- Remember to explore the images, videos and related articles to find out more about this topic.
Tips: To get to the EPIC resources you will need a password from your school librarian first. Or you can chat with one of our AnyQuestions librarians between 1 and 6 pm Monday to Friday and they will help you online. Some EPIC databases may also be available through your public library.
Tips: Search words, or keywords, are the most important words in our question. Usually it’s better to leave out small words like ‘the’, ‘a’ and ‘of’ and just choose the main ones, e.g [evolution]. We can always change our keywords or add more if we need to.
Science in Context is another EPICdatabase with information of hundred's of important science topics such as evolution.
- You can go straight to evolution by going to Browse Topics from the top of the page and selecting Evolution.
- This page has a range of information like evidence for evolution, convergent evolutionand divergent evolution.
Tips: Many web pages have links to further information or to other recommended sites. Following these links is a great way to find out more. This searching method is called “pearl growing” because you are picking up pieces of sand to make a beautiful pearl!
Khan Academy is a free to use site filled with information and educational videos on a range of topics in science, math, history, computers and more. Unfortunately Khan Academy does not work in Internet Explorer.
- Type the words 'evolution' into the search box to bring up a selection of Top Results on various aspects of evolution.
- For example: Evolution and the tree of life will lead you to videos on introduction to evolution and natural selection,evolution clarification, variation in a species and much more.
Tips: Websites that have .org or .net in the address can have good information, but you need to assess how reliable it is. Check the About us link on the website, if you can find one. That can tell you what the organisation’s mission and values are.
Charles Darwin
Charles Robert Darwin's theory of evolution became the foundation for other evolutionary studies. The websites below are about his life and his process of discovery.
In addition to biographies, this EPIC resource has video and audio recordings and images of past and present famous people in various fields.
- Type in 'Charles Darwin' into the search box.
- The biography Charles Robert Darwin is the life story of the naturalist and his Voyage of the Beagle.
Tips: To get to the EPIC resources you will need a password from your school librarian first. Or you can chat with one of our AnyQuestions librarians between 1 and 6 pm Monday to Friday and they will help you online. Some EPIC databases may also be available through your public library.
Britannica School from EPIC has a special section on biographies of famous people. You can search using the biographies link or use the search feature.
- Select Middle and type 'Charles Darwin' into the search box.
- Go to the link Charles Darwin ( 1809-1882) British naturalist.
- Remember to explore the Related Resources, Images and Videos listed on this page to know more about this topic.
Books
Your school and local library will have many books about Charles Darwin and evolution. Here are some suggested titles:
Evolution by Sally Morgan.
Charles Darwin by Sarah Ridley.
Charles Darwin's Voyages of Discovery by Izzi Howell.
Evolution by Daniel Loxton.
All about Evolution by Robert M L Winston.
SCIS no: 1918916
