Modeling Evolution in the Classroom: An Interactive LEGO Simulation

Abby Hongsermeier; Nealy F. Grandgenett; Dawn M. Simon

doi:10.1525/abt.2017.79.2.128

How to translate text using browser tools

1 February 2017 Modeling Evolution in the Classroom: An Interactive LEGO Simulation

Abby Hongsermeier, Nealy F. Grandgenett, Dawn M. Simon

Author Affiliations +

The American Biology Teacher, 79(2):128-134 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1525/abt.2017.79.2.128

Abstract

Evolutionary theory is critical for a comprehensive understanding of biology, yet students often fail to grasp its underlying principles. This results partially from ineffective teaching; however, the use of interactive activities could alleviate this problem. In this guided investigation of evolutionary mechanisms, students use LEGO bricks to simulate how mutation, migration, genetic drift, and natural selection can affect the evolution of a population. This exercise was undertaken and assessed with college introductory biology students, but is also appropriate for advanced high school students.

© 2017 National Association of Biology Teachers. All rights reserved. Please direct all requests for permission to photocopy or reproduce article content through the University of California Press's Reprints and Permissions web page, www.ucpress.edu/journals.php?p=reprints.

Citation Download Citation

Abby Hongsermeier, Nealy F. Grandgenett, and Dawn M. Simon "Modeling Evolution in the Classroom: An Interactive LEGO Simulation," The American Biology Teacher 79(2), 128-134, (1 February 2017). https://doi.org/10.1525/abt.2017.79.2.128

Published: 1 February 2017

KEYWORDS/PHRASES

PUBLICATION TITLE:

COLLECTION TITLE:

PUBLICATION YEARS