Big Blue Whale
#1 in Read and Wonder, Nature Storybooks Series
What’s inside...
Read and Wonder books explore the natural world, telling stories, taking children on adventures, and revealing its vast wonders. This book focuses on the majestic blue whale, the largest animal to ever live. The back matter includes an index to further explore the mysterious and magnificent blue whale.
Discussion points
What do you think it would feel like to swim like a big blue whale?
Why do you think whales sing to each other?
How do whales help other creatures in the ocean?
What can we do to help protect whales and their ocean home?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine being a whale, describing how they might move and communicate in the ocean.
Discuss the different sounds whales make and why communication is important for whales.
Explore the interconnectedness of ocean life and discuss the importance of every creature's role, including the whale's.
Talk about human activities that might endanger whales and brainstorm ways to help protect marine life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy towards animals
Explanation: Through the detailed exploration of the life of a blue whale, the book teaches children about the importance of understanding and empathizing with creatures that share our planet.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing kindness and compassion towards animals they encounter in their daily life, fostering a lifelong respect for wildlife.
Example Lesson: Importance of conservation
Explanation: The book discusses the vastness of the whale's habitat and the issues that threaten it, such as pollution and hunting, highlighting the necessity of conservation efforts.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in local clean-up efforts, learn about recycling, and understand the impact of their actions on the environment.
Example Lesson: Scientific curiosity and exploration
Explanation: By presenting facts about the blue whale, the book piques children’s curiosity about marine biology and the natural world.
Real-World Application: This curiosity can lead children to explore more about other animals, engage in science-related activities, and possibly pursue further education in science.
Example Lesson: Understanding ecosystems and biodiversity
Explanation: The book details the blue whale's interactions within its ecosystem, demonstrating the interconnectedness of life in the ocean.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the complexity of ecosystems and the importance of every organism within it, promoting an understanding of biodiversity and its roles in our planet’s health.