PBS Evolution, Episode 1
Darwin's Dangerous Idea
This is the longest of the PBS Evolution segments, clocking in at 2 hours. Key moments of Charles Darwin's life and research are re-enacted, to give students insight into how his theories emerged. Mixed in with these segments are modern case studies of natural selection, such as the evolution of the eye and the fight against the ever-changing AIDS virus.
This worksheet set includes a guide to each of the main characters in the story, including Charles Darwin, his brother Erasamus, Admiral Fitzroy, and others. This will provide some of the historical context and will add meaning as the students watch through these segments.
Key Concepts: Charles Darwin, HMS Beagle, Galapagos islands, phylogenetic tree, divergent speciation, natural selection, artificial selection, AIDS, mutations, drug resistance, Origin of Species
Answer Key: Available at the biology instructor resources subscription page.
