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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does natural selection say about the most distinct characteristic of a species?

2. What animal does Darwin use as an example of an intermediate form of a full-land and full-flying animal?

3. Which of the following tends to live over larger areas?

4. As an example of a variation, what does Darwin indicate in Chapter 1 that is a change due to improved diet?

5. What is the difference between the two types of variations discussed in Chapter 1: Variation Under Domestication?

Short Essay Questions

1. Regarding Darwin's example of the pigeon in Chapter 1, why is the pigeon easily determined to be descended from a single species?

2. What must be examined in order for Darwin's theory to be considered plausible?

3. Why is natural selection much broader than domestic selection by humans?

4. What was Darwin's specific interest in the living species?

5. Why is a flying mammal such as a bat difficult to explain through natural selection?

6. Why are polymorphic species considered an extreme illustration of variation?

7. What factors contribute to the slowdown in reproduction in a species?

8. What is the difference between domesticated and wild animals, according to Darwin?

9. Why does Darwin suggest his methods of study are inadequate?

10. How does Darwin propose a theory that goes against long-held popular belief?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Darwin uses the scientific method. How does he study nature and species using this method, and what is the significance of this method?

Essay Topic 2

Darwin discusses four objections to his theory. Discuss these objections. Do you think Darwin makes valid points to explain away these objections? Can you find flaws in either the objections to Darwin's theory of the theory itself?

Essay Topic 3

Darwin's theory raised concerns and many objections by the religious community during his time. This theory, even today, is opposed by this community. Do you think these objections are warranted? Explain your answer.

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