by providing examples of specific patterns found in the fossil record, such as the gradual changes in species over time, and in embryo development, such as the similarities in early stages of different species. I could also explain how these patterns support the idea of common ancestry and evolution by natural selection by comparing them to known evolutionary relationships. Additionally, I could emphasize the importance of multiple lines of evidence, including genetics and biogeography, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of evolutionary processes.

Write this in 1-3 sentences and in 7th graders wordings

The fossil record shows that different species change slowly over time, like how whales used to have legs. Embryo development also shows similarities in the early stages of different species, like how human embryos have gill slits like fish. These patterns support the idea of common ancestry and evolution because they can be compared to known relationships between species. By looking at genetics and where species live, scientists can get a better understanding of how evolution happens.