Evolution and Inheritance: Interactive Learning Quizzes for Year 6 Science

Question 1

Which of these shows that some animals are more likely to survive and pass on their genes because of certain features?

Accepted Answer

Giraffes with longer necks can reach higher leaves.

Answer

All animals have an equal chance of surviving in the wild.

Answer

Plants with green leaves can make their own food.

Question 2

How does genetic variation contribute to evolution?

Accepted Answer

It provides the raw material for natural selection to work on.

Answer

It ensures that all individuals in a population are identical.

Answer

It is only found in plants and animals that reproduce sexually.

Question 3

How do mutations affect the genetic makeup of a population?

Accepted Answer

Mutations can create new versions of existing genes.

Answer

Mutations always harm a population's genetic diversity.

Answer

Mutations only happen in reproductive cells.

Question 4

How does the environment affect how genes are expressed? Give examples to explain your answer.

Accepted Answer

The environment provides resources like nutrients and sunlight that genes need to work.

Answer

The environment has no effect on gene expression because genes are fixed and can't change.

Answer

The environment only affects genes that control physical traits.

Question 5

Genetic drift is a random change in the frequency of genes in a group of living things. How does it affect how living things change over time, especially in small groups?

Accepted Answer

Genetic drift can cause some genes to disappear from a group, making the group less varied.

Answer

Genetic drift always makes certain genes become the only genes in a group.

Answer

Genetic drift doesn't change the genes in a group.

Question 6

How do homologous structures in different organisms support the theory of evolution?

Accepted Answer

They show that organisms share a common ancestor.

Answer

They always have the same function.

Answer

They are always visible on the outside of the body.

Answer

They are only found in organisms that are closely related.

Question 7

How do environmental changes affect the direction of natural selection? Explain with an example.

Accepted Answer

Environmental changes can make certain traits more advantageous, leading to their increased prevalence in the population.

Answer

Natural selection always favors the same traits, regardless of the environment.

Answer

Environmental changes only impact individual survival, not the direction of natural selection.

Answer

Natural selection is a random process unaffected by environmental changes.

Question 8

Which fossil record provides evidence for the gradual evolution of a species through natural selection?

Accepted Answer

A sequence of fossils showing the gradual change in the shape and size of a horse's teeth over millions of years

Answer

A well-preserved insect from millions of years ago

Answer

A fossil of a dinosaur with feathers

Answer

A frozen mammoth from the last ice age

Question 9

Which process allows new species to form without separating populations geographically?

Accepted Answer

Sympatric speciation

Answer

Allopatric speciation

Answer

Adaptive radiation

Answer

Convergent evolution

Question 10

What is the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium? How can it be disrupted?

Accepted Answer

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is a state where allele frequencies stay the same over time.

Accepted Answer

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium can be disrupted by genetic drift, gene flow, mutation, non-random mating, and natural selection.

Answer

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is only stable in small populations.

Answer

The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is necessary for evolution to happen.

Question 11

In meiosis, how do homologous chromosomes contribute to genetic variation?

Accepted Answer

Homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material through crossing over.

Answer

Homologous chromosomes are identical copies of each other.

Answer

Homologous chromosomes only pair up during mitosis.

Answer

Crossing over occurs between non-homologous chromosomes.

Question 12

How does DNA's role in passing on traits help us understand evolution?

Accepted Answer

DNA provides instructions for an organism's traits, allowing for differences and adaptations to different environments.

Answer

DNA is not involved in evolution and only carries genetic information from one generation to the next.

Answer

DNA only contributes to evolution when it is changed by mutations, which are always harmful.

Question 13

How does genetic variation help a species survive when the environment changes?

Accepted Answer

Some individuals may have traits that help them survive and reproduce in the new environment.

Answer

Individuals are less likely to develop new traits to adapt to the changed environment.

Answer

Genetic variation does not affect a species' ability to survive changing environments.

Question 14

How does the theory of evolution help us understand the history of life on Earth?

Accepted Answer

It explains how species have changed and adapted over time.

Answer

It proves that a creator exists.

Answer

It predicts exactly how life on Earth will evolve in the future.

Answer

It gives us a complete and unchanging record of all life on Earth.

Question 15

How do living things change over time?

Accepted Answer

Living things change through a process called evolution.

Answer

Living things change because they want to.

Answer

Living things change because of magic.

Question 16

What is genetic drift and why is it crucial in small populations?

Accepted Answer

Random changes in gene frequencies due to chance events.

Answer

Natural selection favoring individuals with beneficial traits.

Answer

Passing down of traits from parents to offspring through genes.

Answer

Increased diversity in populations over time.

Question 17

How does epigenetics challenge the traditional view of inheritance, which focused on DNA sequence alone?

Accepted Answer

Epigenetics shows that environmental factors can affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

Answer

Epigenetics has proven that inherited traits are always determined by the DNA sequence.

Answer

Epigenetics has shown that acquired traits can be passed on to offspring.

Answer

Epigenetics has no impact on the traditional view of inheritance.

Question 18

Which of the following explains adaptive radiation?

Accepted Answer

Species from a common ancestor develop unique traits to thrive in various environments.

Answer

Species develop similar traits over time.

Answer

Species gradually change their traits over time.

Question 19

What is the result of cladogenesis?

Accepted Answer

A single species divides into two new species with distinct characteristics.

Answer

Two separate species combine to form a single, larger species.

Answer

One of the original species becomes extinct.

Question 20

Which evidence supports the theory of punctuated equilibrium, which states that evolution occurs in sudden bursts followed by periods of stability?

Accepted Answer

Fossils showing sudden, major changes in species' appearance over a short time

Answer

Natural selection always leads to gradual, continuous changes in species over time

Answer

All living things share a common ancestor

Answer

The rate of evolution is the same for all species

Question 21

How does the symbiotic relationship between mitochondria and eukaryotic cells support the theory of evolution?

Accepted Answer

It suggests that new traits can emerge when foreign organisms are incorporated.

Answer

It contradicts the idea that all species share a common ancestor.

Answer

It has no bearing on evolutionary theory because it does not involve genetic changes.

Question 22

How does sexual reproduction contribute to evolution?

Accepted Answer

It increases genetic diversity within a population.

Answer

It produces offspring identical to their parents.

Answer

It helps the strongest animals survive.

Answer

It serves as a backup if asexual reproduction fails.

Question 23

Genetic mapping is a valuable tool in modern medicine. Which of the following is a key use of genetic mapping?

Accepted Answer

Predicting the likelihood of developing a genetic disease

Answer

Treating genetic diseases

Answer

Altering physical appearance

Answer

Modifying DNA to cure diseases

Question 24

In natural selection, which individuals are more likely to pass on their genes?

Accepted Answer

Those with helpful traits

Answer

Those with harmful traits

Answer

Those with neutral traits

Answer

All individuals have an equal chance

Question 25

How can climate change influence the evolution of species?

Accepted Answer

Climate change alters the environment, favoring individuals with traits that enhance their survival and reproduction.

Answer

Climate change only affects humans.

Answer

Evolutionary changes take millions of years, so climate change has no impact.

Answer

Climate change does not affect genetic variation within a population.

Question 26

How has genetic engineering impacted farming and the food we eat?

Accepted Answer

It has allowed us to create crops with more vitamins and nutrients.

Accepted Answer

It has helped create crops that are resistant to pests and diseases.

Accepted Answer

It has enabled the creation of crops that can grow in harsh conditions.

Answer

It has replaced the need for traditional farming methods.

Question 27

Convergent evolution occurs when different animals living in similar environments develop similar traits. How does this process contribute to the diversity of life on Earth?

Accepted Answer

Convergent evolution helps animals adapt and survive in their specific environments.

Answer

Convergent evolution creates new species with unique DNA.

Answer

Convergent evolution increases genetic diversity among different species.

Answer

Convergent evolution reduces competition for resources among different species.

Question 28

Which of the following is NOT a type of speciation?

Accepted Answer

Mutation

Answer

Allopatric speciation

Answer

Sympatric speciation

Answer

Parapatric speciation

Question 29

How has genetic technology revolutionized crime-solving? Explain the significance of techniques like DNA fingerprinting and genetic profiling in these investigations.

Accepted Answer

Genetic technology, including DNA fingerprinting and genetic profiling, enables forensic scientists to analyze DNA samples to identify suspects, determine paternity, and solve crimes.

Answer

Genetic technology has not impacted crime investigations.

Answer

Genetic technology is primarily used to establish paternity.

Question 30

Which of these is an example of macroevolution, a large-scale evolutionary change over a long period of time?

Accepted Answer

The evolution of humans from ape-like ancestors

Accepted Answer

The extinction of the dinosaurs

Answer

A change in the beak size of finches on an island

Answer

The development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria

Question 31

Which of the following is NOT a principle of natural selection?

Accepted Answer

Individuals with harmful traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Answer

Individuals with traits that help them survive in their environment have a higher chance of passing on those traits.

Answer

Traits that help individuals adapt to their environment are more likely to be passed on.

Answer

Natural selection can lead to the evolution of new species.

Question 32

What is the term for the passing on of characteristics from parents to offspring?

Accepted Answer

Inheritance

Answer

Adaptation

Answer

Evolution

Answer

Natural selection

Question 33

Which of the following is NOT a Mendelian law of inheritance?

Accepted Answer

Law of Natural Selection

Answer

Law of Segregation

Answer

Law of Independent Assortment

Answer

Law of Dominance

Question 34

What is the term for an allele that determines a trait that is expressed over another allele?

Accepted Answer

Dominant allele

Answer

Recessive allele

Answer

Heterozygous allele

Answer

Homozygous allele

Question 35

Which of the following is an example of artificial selection?

Accepted Answer

Breeding dogs for specific traits

Answer

Allowing only the strongest animals to reproduce

Answer

Using artificial insemination to increase genetic diversity

Answer

Cloning animals to create identical copies

Question 36

What is the term for the process by which traits are passed from parents to offspring?

Accepted Answer

Inheritance

Answer

Reproduction

Answer

Natural selection

Answer

Adaptation

Question 37

Which of the following is an example of an adaptation that helps polar bears survive in their icy habitat?

Accepted Answer

Thick fur coat

Answer

Large, webbed feet

Answer

Ability to breathe underwater

Answer

Camouflaged fur

Question 38

Which of the following is NOT a factor that can influence the pace of evolution?

Accepted Answer

Environmental stability

Answer

Genetic variation within a population

Answer

Strength of natural selection

Answer

Size of the population

Question 39

What is the main role of natural selection in the process of evolution?

Accepted Answer

To select for traits that are beneficial for survival and reproduction

Answer

To create new genetic variation

Answer

To determine which individuals will survive and reproduce

Answer

To prevent species from adapting to their environment

Question 40

Who is credited with developing the theory of natural selection?

Accepted Answer

Charles Darwin

Answer

Gregor Mendel

Answer

Jean-Baptiste Lamarck

Answer

James Hutton

Question 41

Which of the following is NOT a principle of natural selection proposed by Charles Darwin?

Accepted Answer

Individuals with traits that make them less fit for their environment are more likely to pass on those traits to their offspring.

Answer

Variation is common within a species.

Answer

Individuals with traits that help them survive and reproduce in their environment are more likely to pass on those traits.

Answer

Over time, traits that help organisms survive and reproduce become more common in a population.

Question 42

Which of these organisms is best adapted to its desert environment?

Accepted Answer

A plant that can store water in its stems and leaves.

Answer

A bird that can fly long distances to find food and water.

Answer

A fish that can survive in both saltwater and freshwater.

Answer

A mammal that has thick fur to keep it warm in cold climates.

Question 43

Which of the following is an example of an embryological homology?

Accepted Answer

The development of a notochord in fish and humans.

Answer

The presence of a tailbone in humans and dogs.

Answer

The presence of feathers in birds and bats.

Answer

The presence of a placenta in mammals.

Question 44

Which of these scientists is known for their work on genetics and the discovery of DNA?

Accepted Answer

James Watson and Francis Crick.

Answer

Charles Darwin.

Answer

Gregor Mendel.

Answer

Albert Einstein.

Question 45

Which of these techniques is used to compare the DNA of different organisms?

Accepted Answer

DNA fingerprinting.

Answer

Genetic engineering.

Answer

Chromatography.

Answer

Microscopy.

Question 46

Which of these is NOT a benefit of biological classification?

Accepted Answer

It helps to predict the behavior of organisms.

Answer

It helps scientists understand the relationships between organisms.

Answer

It allows for the identification of new species.

Answer

It makes it easier to remember information about organisms.

Question 47

What term describes the gradual change in a population over generations?

Accepted Answer

Evolution

Answer

Adaptation

Answer

Inheritance

Answer

Mutation

Question 48

What term describes a characteristic that helps an organism survive and reproduce in its environment?

Accepted Answer

Adaptation

Answer

Mutation

Answer

Gene

Answer

Dominant trait

Question 49

Who is known for developing the theory of natural selection?

Accepted Answer

Charles Darwin

Answer

Isaac Newton

Answer

Albert Einstein

Answer

Marie Curie

Question 50

What is the process called when traits are passed from parents to their offspring?

Accepted Answer

Inheritance

Answer

Genetics

Answer

Evolution

Answer

Adaptation

Question 51

What is the difference between a genotype and a phenotype?

Accepted Answer

A genotype is the genetic makeup of an organism, while a phenotype is its observable characteristics

Answer

A phenotype is the genetic makeup of an organism, while a genotype is its observable characteristics

Answer

They are the same thing

Answer

There is no difference

Question 52

In small populations, genetic drift can lead to random changes in the frequency of an allele. What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The frequency of an allele can increase or decrease by chance

Answer

The frequency of an allele will always increase over time

Answer

Genetic drift only affects dominant alleles

Answer

Genetic drift cannot occur in large populations

Question 53

Which of the following events does NOT lead to the formation of new species?

Accepted Answer

Two similar species evolving to become more alike over time

Answer

Two populations of the same species becoming separated by a geographic barrier

Answer

A group of individuals in a population developing a new trait that allows them to survive in a different environment

Answer

A population becoming isolated and adapting to a new environment over many generations

Question 54

In a population that is in balance according to the Hardy-Weinberg principles, what will happen to the allele and genotype frequencies from one generation to the next?

Accepted Answer

They will stay the same.

Answer

They will change quickly because of mutations.

Answer

They will change because genes move between populations.

Answer

They will change because natural selection favors certain alleles.

Question 55

Who independently developed the theory of evolution by natural selection?

Accepted Answer

Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace

Answer

Gregor Mendel and Charles Darwin

Answer

James Watson and Francis Crick

Answer

Rosalind Franklin and Maurice Wilkins

Question 56

Which of the following is NOT a mechanism of inheritance?

Accepted Answer

Photosynthesis

Answer

Mitosis

Answer

Meiosis

Answer

Fertilization

Question 57

What is the difference between a genotype and a phenotype?

Accepted Answer

Genotype refers to an organism's genetic makeup, while phenotype refers to its observable characteristics.

Answer

Genotype refers to an organism's observable characteristics, while phenotype refers to its genetic makeup.

Answer

Genotype and phenotype mean the same thing.

Answer

Genotype is a type of plant, while phenotype is a type of animal.

Question 58

How does natural selection contribute to evolution?

Accepted Answer

It allows individuals with favorable traits to have a better chance of surviving and reproducing.

Answer

It creates new genetic variations in a population.

Answer

It prevents harmful mutations from being passed on to offspring.

Answer

It ensures that all individuals in a population are genetically identical.

Question 59

How do species change over time according to the theory of evolution?

Accepted Answer

Through gradual changes that help them survive and reproduce.

Answer

Suddenly, without any gradual changes.

Answer

Only the strongest species survive, while the weaker ones disappear.

Answer

Species do not change over time.

Question 60

How does natural selection help living things adapt to their environment?

Accepted Answer

It allows organisms with better traits to survive and reproduce.

Answer

It prevents harmful mutations from occurring.

Answer

It creates new traits in organisms.

Question 61

Scientists have made exciting new discoveries in genetics. Which of these has helped us learn more about the different genes found in different members of the same species?

Accepted Answer

Genomics

Answer

Paleontology

Answer

Biogeography

Answer

Ecology

Question 62

Scientists use the term 'homology' to describe characteristics that:

Accepted Answer

Are shared due to a common ancestor

Answer

Differ between closely related species

Answer

Have different functions in different species

Answer

Appear similar but serve different purposes

Question 63

How have advances in molecular biology techniques, like DNA sequencing and genetic mapping, improved our understanding of evolution?

Accepted Answer

They've helped us compare DNA from different species to find similarities and differences.

Answer

They've helped us make new species.

Answer

They've let us go back in time to watch evolution happen.

Question 64

Which of these is a potential drawback of using genetic engineering in agriculture?

Accepted Answer

Reduced biodiversity

Answer

Increased crop yield

Answer

Reduced use of pesticides

Answer

Creation of new plant varieties