Variation within species
I can describe examples of variation between individuals of the same species and explain what causes this variation.
Variation within species
I can describe examples of variation between individuals of the same species and explain what causes this variation.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Differences between species are greater than differences within species.
- There are differences in the features of individuals of the same species, and this is called variation.
- Some variation is caused only by the environment (e.g. injuries).
- Some variation is caused only by inherited genetic information in the genome (e.g. blood type).
- Some variation results from a combination of genetic and environmental/lifestyle factors (e.g. body mass).
Keywords
Species - a group of organisms that can reproduce to produce fertile offspring
Variation - differences between members of the same species
Environment - the external space around an organism that influences it
Lifestyle - the choices an individual makes as to how they live their life
Genetic - related to the genetic material (DNA) and genes that an individual has
Common misconception
All members of a species (especially non-human species) look exactly the same.
The lesson explores examples of variation between members of the same species, and causes of these variations.
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Variation within species, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 8 science lesson on: Variation within species, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Variation (differences within species) unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
caused by instructions in genes
caused by external factors like food availability and sunlight
caused by choices made by the organism