Study Guide

Cumulative Selection Explorer teacher and learner guide

Use this guide to frame the tool with a clear question, expected observations, and model-limits discussion rather than treating it as a standalone demo.

Open application Curriculum alignment

Teaching Focus

Teacher notes

Make the limitations of the demonstration explicit.
Use the tool to frame questions about cumulative versus one-step change.
Connect it to model critique, not just model celebration.

Learner tasks

Run the simulation and track score improvement over generations.
Compare a higher and lower mutation rate.
Explain why the model is a demonstration, not a full account of biological evolution.

Core Question

What difference does cumulative selection make compared with undirected random change?

Scientific Virtues

Habits to practice

State clearly what the model demonstrates and what it does not claim about real biological systems.
Use repeated runs and comparisons as evidence instead of relying on a single striking outcome.
Treat model limitations as part of the explanation, not as an afterthought.

Continue the thread

Use the Scientific Virtues page to connect model use with evidence, skepticism, and revision.