Evidence for Evolution

• CHARLES DARWIN developed the THEORY OF EVOLUTION by natural selection, which was NOT widely accepted during his time.
• Today, the theory of evolution is WIDELY ACCEPTED due to a large amount of supporting evidence.
• DARWIN'S THEORY suggested that traits beneficial for survival are passed on to offspring, and this is now understood to occur at the genetic level.

Evidence for Evolution

• Modern science has shown that CHARACTERISTICS are indeed passed on to offspring through GENES.
• FOSSIL RECORDS provides a huge amount of historical data about life on Earth, showing GRADUAL CHANGES in species over time. (see later in notes)
• How ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE evolves in bacteria is a prime example of natural selection in action and is a clear demonstration of how characteristics that offer a survival advantage can quickly become common within a population. (see later in notes)