Whales & Dolphins
Creatures of the ocean Series
on Goodreads (1)
What’s inside...
The book by Andrew Cleave explores the diverse ocean life, focusing on different species of whales and dolphins. It offers richly illustrated and thoroughly researched information on their unique traits, feeding, breeding, and communication. The book is part of the Creatures of the Ocean series, providing readers with scientific facts and stunning photography to better understand these magnificent mammals.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
80 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What similarities and differences did you notice between whales and dolphins?
How do whales communicate with each other and why do you think that's important?
What are some ways that dolphins show their intelligence?
How can we help protect the habitats of whales and dolphins?
If you could be a whale or dolphin for a day, which one would you choose and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them to compare and contrast the behaviors and environments of whales and dolphins.
Foster empathy by discussing the importance of communication for whales and what it can teach us about our own ways of interacting.
Highlight the intelligence of dolphins with specific examples from the book, then relate it to learning and problem-solving skills in humans.
Discuss the environmental challenges faced by these creatures and brainstorm together on ways to help conserve marine life.
Use creative imagination by asking your child to step into the shoes—or fins—of these magnificent creatures, enhancing connection and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: Through stunning visuals and factual content about whales and dolphins, the book educates young readers about the importance of marine life.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and care for the environment, fostering a lifelong respect for nature.
Example Lesson: The value of curiosity and learning
Explanation: As the book explores different species and behaviors of whales and dolphins, it highlights the importance of discovery and gaining knowledge.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to ask questions and seek answers, developing their research skills and thirst for knowledge.
Example Lesson: Understanding ecosystems
Explanation: The book explains how whales and dolphins are essential parts of their ecosystems, which helps children understand the interdependence of organisms.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to think about how their actions impact the world around them, promoting eco-friendly behaviors.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards animals
Explanation: By portraying the life, challenges, and beauty of these sea creatures, the book builds emotional connections between children and animals.
Real-World Application: Fosters kindness and empathy towards animals, encouraging children to advocate for animal welfare.
Example Lesson: Conservation and responsibility
Explanation: Discussions on threats faced by these marine species such as pollution and hunting highlight the need for conservation efforts.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to participate in or support environmental initiatives, teaching them responsibility towards protecting biodiversity.