The Theory of Evolution – 4.1B, 4.2, 4.3

Natural Selection – Edexcel GCSE (1BI0): Higher Tier

In this course, Dr Matt Ivory (Cardiff University) covers natural selection, covering topics 4.1B, 4.2-4.5, 4.6B & 4.7 in the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Biology (9-1) Higher Specification. We start off (i) with the history of Darwin and Wallace's development of the theory of evolution and how this theory is supported by antibiotic resistant bacteria (Topics 4.1B, 4.2, 4.3); we then (ii) look at the historical evidence for evolution including various fossils, tools and the emergence of the pentadactyl limb (Topics 4.4, 4.5, 4.6B); and we finish up with (iii) how genetic analysis has been used to challenge the five kingdoms classification method (Topic 4.7).

The Theory of Evolution – 4.1B, 4.2, 4.3

In this first mini-lecture, we look at the history of the development of the theory of evolution by natural selection. We discuss the work of both Darwin and Wallace and their early ideas around the theory. Following this we describe Darwin's theory and then finish with how antibiotic resistant bacteria provides modern day evidence to Darwin's theory.