Natural

& Artificial Selection Test

Score ___/ 30
Name_________________________
Standards:
Period: ______
Can explain how natural selection may influence traits in populations
1 2 3
Can evaluate methods humans use to influence traits in living things
1 2 3

Can describe how genetic variations may influence the chances of surviving 1 2 3
Multiple Choice: circle the correct letter (1 point each)


Darwin and his research
1. The birds that Darwin studied in the Galapagos were similar in form except for variations of their beaks. Darwin
observed that these variations were useful for:
a. attracting a mate
b. defending a territory
c. building nests
d. gathering food

2. According to Darwins theory of natural selection, the individuals that tend to survive are those that have:
a. variations best suited to the environment.
b. characteristics their parents acquired.
c. characteristics that plant and animal breeders value.
d. the greatest number of offspring.

3. Variations controlled by natural selection occur:

a. by choice
b. randomly
c. quickly
d. none of the above

4. In Darwins phrase Survival of the Fittest, fittest means:

a. strongest
b. best adapted to the environment
c. macho, macho man
d. most nutritious diet

5. The example of dark peppered moths living near English industrial cities demonstrates that:
a. The environment near these cities ALWAYS favored dark colored moths
b. The moths CHOSE to change so that they were able to survive
c. A change in the environment can cause a change in the species living there
d. All of the above

Artificial selection
6. Variations controlled by artificial selection occur:
a. choice
b. randomly
c. quickly
d. none of the above

7. Selecting two different breeds of dogs with the hopes that the offspring acquired both parents beneficial traits
(i.e. long hair and pointy ears) is an example of:
a. genetic engineering
b. selective breeding
c. natural selection
d. both b and c

____/7

- A family of race horses

- Peppered Moths

- Galapagos finches
- Dog breeding

8. Provide two examples from the word bank above for natural selection (2 points)
1.
2.
9. Provide two examples from the word bank above for artificial selection (2 points)
1.
2.
10. Complete the table by filling in two pros and two cons for each (8points)
Natural Selection
Pros:

1.


2.

Artificial Selection
Pros:

1.


2.

Cons:

1.


2.

Cons:

1.


2.

Matching: Write the letter on the line for the word(s) that corresponds best with the lab title:
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.

___ Bead Lab (different colored beads on fabric)

A. Artificial Selection
___ Bird Beak Lab (picking up items)




B. Mutation
___ Dog Breeding Lab






C. Camouflage
___ Darwin Survival Game (computer lab)



D. Industrial Revolution
___ Peppered Moth Simulation (computer lab)



E. Darwins finches

16. What are three traits that an animal would need to survive in the snowy Arctic? Explain why each trait is
beneficial. (6 points)
1.

Why?

Why?

Why?

2.

3.


_____/ 23