Evolution

Traps in Evolution

• Uses an everyday idea instead of the biology
  Translate everyday words into the textbook definition before choosing. If the only reason an option attracts you is its name or looks, test it against the definition in the stem.
• Mixes up a pair of similar technical terms
  Make a two-column table for each confusable pair with one defining feature each, and a memory hook (aTLas holds the 'world' (skull) and nods; aXis lets you shake 'no'). Underline the defining feature the stem gives before you look at the options.
• Gives the job of a neighbouring structure or stage
  Learn structures as pairs of 'name → one job' and contrast neighbours: ribosome makes protein, mitochondrion releases energy; cochlea hears, semicircular canals balance. When two options sit in the same organ or process, ask which one does exactly the job in the stem.
• Chooses a true but irrelevant statement
  Re-read the question word (why, which, where, what causes). An option can be a true fact and still be wrong because it answers a different question.
• Explains by need or purpose
  Variation comes first (by chance mutation and sexual reproduction); selection then favours what already exists. Replace 'it needs to' with 'individuals that happened to have it survived and reproduced more'.
• Takes one contributing factor as the whole answer
  Watch for 'only', 'just', 'mainly'. Ask: is this the MAIN reason, or one contributor? If it would need other things to work (plasma proteins need platelets), it is incomplete.