Conceptual and Mathematical Evolutionary Fitness Models

Abstract

The activities presented in this article allowed students to conceptually explore and apply mathematical models of fitness through a hypothetical activity where black-footed ferrets eat prairie dogs over several generations. In addition, students examined an applet of butterflies being eaten by a bird, showing directional, stabilizing, and disruptive selection. Finally, students applied a mathematical model created in Excel by entering relative fitness values and interpreting the resulting graphs.

Keywords::

• Inquiry biology
• evolution
• scientific models
• selection activities
• mathematical fitness models

Supplemental material

Supplemental data for this article can be accessed online at http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00368555.2023.2292335.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Arthur Louis Odom

Arthur Louis Odom ([email protected]) is a dedicated Professor of science education at the University of Missouri-Kansas City in the School of Education, Social Work and Psychological Sciences. With a passion for inspiring the next generation of science teachers, his commitment to promoting scientific literacy and fostering critical thinking skills among students is evident in his teaching approach.