Whales

In our ocean unit, we have been learning about the similarities and difference between the two main classifications of whales: toothed whales and baleen whales.  First the students researched whales with a partner using books from our class library and Google search.  Then they selected their favorite whale and found out if it is a toothed whale or a baleen whale.  Depending on its classification they created one of these little cuties.  :)

I got the adorable idea for the toothed whale from Amy Lemons, then I made a baleen whale to go with it.  The following day we practiced our close reading skills as we read an informational passage about whales.  While reading we used three different colors to keep track of the information we learned: yellow=all whales, green=toothed whales, and orange=baleen whales.  

                                    

Later we created a Venn diagram using hula hoops to sort the information. 

 I was so impressed by the students comprehension skills!  Because open house is quickly approaching I popped our happy whales and Venn diagram up for all to see.  :)  Did you know baleen whales have two blowholes?!

                                   

If you are interested in this lesson you can download it for free from my TPT store!