Natural Selection in the Schoolyard!

Recently, Grade 6 students explored how natural selection works in nature through a fun and educational activity. During their biology class, we organised a simulation where “worms” — actually strips of green and red paper — were placed on two different surfaces: green grass and a red basketball court.

The students played the role of “predators,” trying to find and “catch” as many worms as possible. The goal was to observe how the colour of an animal’s body affects its chances of survival in a particular environment – just like in natural surroundings!

It turned out that the green worms were much better “hidden” on the grass, while the red worms were more successful on the red surface.

Through this activity, the students gained hands-on experience and a better understanding of camouflage, as well as how certain traits can influence an individual’s chances of survival – the essence of natural selection.

At the end of the lesson, the students independently analysed the results, drew graphs, and drew conclusions like true young scientists!

This day was a perfect example of how science can be interesting, active, and — most importantly — fun!