This Science video introduces teachers to how pupils can use their knowledge of variation, inheritance, and adaptation to understand natural selection and the theory of evolution. Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace proposed that traits helping an organism survive or reproduce are more likely to be passed on, as nature “selects” the best adapted to compete for resources. Over many generations, these traits become more common, and if changes are great enough, a new species can emerge.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Science scheme – evolution. It supports teachers in explaining that environmental changes can alter which traits are beneficial, leading to new adaptations over time. Using examples like rabbits with thicker fur in cold climates helps illustrate the process. The lesson also covers how scientists use fossils and modern genetic tools to find evidence for evolution, highlighting that evolution is both a scientific fact and a well-tested theory, with rapid examples observable in organisms like bacteria.

Science, key stage 2, Year 6, Living things: Evolution and inheritance, Lesson 5: Evolution