3 - LS4.C - Adaptation

Module: Adaptation

DCI: LS4.C Adaptation – For any particular environment, some kinds of organisms survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.

PE: 3-LS4-3 Construct an argument with evidence that in a particular habitat, some organisms can survive well, some survive less well, and some cannot survive at all.

[Clarification Statement: Examples of evidence could include needs and characteristics of the organisms and habitats involved. The organisms and their habitat make up a system in which the parts depend on each other.]

The ideas in this standard are: 

- no matter what kind of environment, some organisms survive well, some less well, and some not at all 

So we might be able to provide a data table for the characteristics of a certain environment (very hot, very cold, etc.) and ask which kinds of animals may have a better chance of surviving (those with thick fur, etc.).  

I'm noticing that the focus is not on the particular adaptation as it relates to a certain function, like we may have previously focused on in the TEKS, but more that it's the adaptation as it relates to the characteristics of the environment.  This might make it a bit trickier. 

Possible Question Starters: 

"Some characteristics of the mole cricket are shown in the diagram. Based on its characteristics, the mole cricket will survive well in which type of environment?"

correct answer - deep underground

incorrect answer - freshwater ponds, tops of trees, open grassland

"Seals and polar bears, have thick layers of fat that help them stay warm.  Because of this characteristic, seals and polar bears would be more likely to survive under which of the following conditions?"

correct answer - extreme cold

incorrect answer - very dry