Evidence of Evolution Worksheet
Explore the various lines of evidence supporting the theory of evolution, including homologous structures, embryology, and fossil records.
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Evidence of Evolution
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Read each question carefully and provide your best answer based on your understanding of the evidence of evolution.
1. Which of the following provides the most direct evidence for the evolutionary history of an organism?
Homologous structures
Analogous structures
Fossil record
Embryological development
2. The presence of similar bone structures in the forelimbs of a human, a bat, a whale, and a cat is an example of:
Convergent evolution
Divergent evolution
Homology
Analogy
1. The study of embryos and their development, known as , provides evidence for common ancestry among different species.
2. Structures that are present in an organism but have no current function, such as the human appendix, are called structures.
1. Observe the image below showing homologous structures. Explain how these structures support the theory of evolution.
2. Briefly describe how the fossil record provides evidence for evolution.
1. DNA sequencing and genetic similarities among species are considered molecular evidence for evolution.
True
False
2. Analogous structures suggest a common evolutionary origin.
True
False
Match each term on the left with its definition on the right.
1. Homologous Structures
a. Structures with similar function but different evolutionary origin
2. Analogous Structures
b. Preserved remains or traces of organisms from the past
3. Vestigial Structures
c. Structures with similar underlying anatomy but different functions, indicating common ancestry
4. Fossils
d. Structures that have lost their original function through evolution
1. Examine the image showing early stages of human embryo development. How does the similarity in early embryonic development across different species support the concept of common ancestry?
