Activities

1. A random change in the DNA of an organism is known as a ___________.
   
   
2. An organism is no longer able to produce enzyme x, this is due to a random change in the structure of what molecule?
   
   
3. In order for a parent to pass a mutation on to their offspring, the mutation must occur in what type of cell?

4. A population of rabbits is becoming darker and darker in fur color over many generations. Explain what is occurring in comparison to their genes and the environment.

5. The pesticide DDT was found to produce mutations in organisms. Predict what might happen to the variety in a species if farmers continually used DDT?
   
   
6. In a single celled organism a mutation can lead to evolution, but in a human a mutation in a body cell will not. Explain.

Answer Key/Rubric

1. Mutation
   
   
2. DNA
   
   
3. A sex cell

4. Acceptable answers include, but are not limited to:

• The environment is changing in a way that makes it more advantageous to have darker fur
• The individuals with darker fur have an easier time surviving
• The individuals that survive will reproduce and pass their genes on to future generations

5. Acceptable answers include, but are not limited to:

• There could be more variation in the ecosystem because genes are changing.
• There could be less biodiversity in the ecosystem because species are dying.

6. Acceptable answers include, but are not limited to:

• The single celled organism will pass that mutation on to future offspring but in a human, the body cell mutation will not be passed on to future offspring.