Instincts are behaviors an organism is born with. They do not need to be taught. Instincts help with survival—like finding food, avoiding danger, and caring for young.
Learned behaviors are gained from experience or teaching. Animals, including humans, practice, observe others, and remember what works.
Student club counted behaviors at a park (20 minutes).
1. Which statement best explains the difference between instincts and learned behaviors?
2. Look at the bar chart above. Which conclusion is supported by the data?
3. A baby sea turtle crawls toward the ocean moments after hatching. This behavior is best described as:
4. Which example shows a learned behavior?
5. A dog sits when it hears, “Sit,” and receives a treat. Which statement best explains why this is a learned behavior?
Describe one instinct you have observed in an animal and one learned behavior you have practiced yourself. How do genes and experience work together to help living things survive?