Finch Evolution

Uses 37 years of real beak-measurement data from Darwin's finches to show students that natural selection is a measurable, ongoing process visible within a human lifetime. By comparing beak dimensions across two time points and two species, students build a data-supported argument connecting directional change to environmental pressure.

Data and Resources

Additional Info

Field Value
Subject Area Biology
Grade Band 9-10
Technology Tool CODAP
Class Time Estimate 2
Data Science Focus
  • 9-10.C.2.1a Use numerical measures such as average, standard deviation and quartiles to compare two groups.
  • 9-10.C.2.3a Describe associations between two categorical variables using measures such as difference in proportions and relative risk.
  • 9-10.C.2.3b Analyze data to uncover correlations, trends, and groupings such as clustering that inform decision-making processes across diverse fields.
Standards Alignment
  • HS-LS4-2
  • HS-LS4-4
Prerequisites Basic understanding of evolution by natural selection (traits change in a population over time under environmental pressure); familiarity with variation and heritability.
Version 1.0
Date Created July 7, 2026
Last Updated July 7, 2026